Stones Restaurant

Tucked away in the heart of Matlock, Derbyshire, Stones Restaurant offers an exceptional modern British dining experience in a stylish and intimate setting. Located at 1 Dale Road, this gem overlooks the serene River Derwent and is run by Head Chef Kevin Stone, alongside his wife Jade and sister Katie Temple. The restaurant has earned significant acclaim, reflected in a stellar 4.8-star rating from nearly 500 reviews, and recognition from prestigious guides including the Michelin Food Guide and the AA Food Guide. Guests can enjoy everything from a refined three-course lunch to an elaborate eight-course tasting menu with carefully paired wine flights, all crafted from the very best seasonal and local produce. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favored destination for couples, locals, and visitors alike, promising a fantastic meal in a relaxed setting.

The space itself is a beautifully converted building featuring multiple unique dining areas. The main dining room is an intimate, softly lit space with cosy corners and hidden nooks, creating a wonderfully romantic atmosphere just steps from the energy of the kitchen. For those seeking a brighter experience, the coveted conservatory is bathed in natural light and offers undeniable charm with just five tables overlooking the river. On sunny days, the tiled riverside terrace truly comes into its own; it’s the perfect spot to settle in with a glass of wine from the extensive list, dine al fresco, and watch the river go by. The entire venue exudes a combination of subtle, earthy tones that complement a colourful Mediterranean-inspired menu, making every visit special.

Dining Menus & Culinary Philosophy

The culinary approach at this fine dining restaurant centers on confident execution and high-quality, seasonal ingredients. The team doesn’t seek to reinvent the wheel but instead delivers satisfyingly flavoursome dishes that showcase classic combinations. The menu is updated regularly to reflect the freshest available produce, and a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu is offered alongside the main selections, ensuring every guest has a superb experience.

Lunch Experience

Lunch is served from Wednesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM. Guests can choose from the standard three-course menu or opt for the five-course tasting menu, with an optional wine flight available to elevate the meal. The atmosphere at lunch is refined yet relaxed, perfect for a celebratory meal or a special business lunch.

Dinner Experience

Dinner is available Tuesday through Saturday, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The evening offers a more expansive journey with a choice between the three-course menu and the signature eight-course tasting menu. As with lunch, carefully curated wine pairings are available. Weekends, particularly Fridays and Saturdays, are exceptionally busy, and advance booking is strongly recommended to secure a table.

Private Dining & Special Occasions

For guests looking to host a truly memorable event, the restaurant offers private dining options that capture the essence of its eclectic and cosy atmosphere. The team works closely with hosts to tailor the experience, whether it’s an intimate family celebration, a corporate gathering, or a special birthday dinner. The Michelin-recognized setting, combined with a personalized menu, ensures a flawless event. Gift vouchers are also available, making a perfect present for birthdays, anniversaries, or a simple thank you, allowing recipients to choose their own dining adventure.

Exceptional Service & Atmosphere

The service at this Matlock establishment is consistently highlighted as exceptional by guests, striking a perfect balance between professionalism and warm, personal attention. Led by the family team, the staff ensures that every visit is seamless, from the initial greeting to the final course. The vibe is often described as classy yet welcoming, with diners enjoying everything from quiet conversations in hidden nooks to vibrant gatherings on the terrace. The combination of the restaurant’s heritage, the attentive but unfussy service, and the beautiful views of the River Derwent creates a dining experience that feels special without being stuffy.

An Acclaimed Destination in Derbyshire

The restaurant has cemented its reputation as a destination dining spot in the region. It is praised by the AA Food Guide for its colourful menu and intelligent wine list, while the Harden Food Guide notes the very good cooking and service in a lovely converted setting. Food blogger Ria Amber Tesia has described it as a stalwart that exudes class with brilliant and well-thought-out food. Such consistent high praise from independent guides and repeat guests underscores why it is considered the best place for a true fine dining experience in Matlock.

Planning Your Visit

Stones Restaurant is situated at 1 Dale Road, Matlock, DE4 3LT, right in view of Matlock Bridge. The unique riverside location means access is via stone steps, and there is no off-street parking available directly at the venue. The best option for parking is the nearby Matlock Train Station, which has almost 200 spaces and is just a short walk further along Dale Road. Guests should be aware that there is no disabled access due to the stone steps. Reservations can be made directly through the official website, by emailing info@stones-restaurant.co.uk, or by calling +44 1629 56061, though the phone line is often busy during service and a message should be left for a prompt callback.