Notsa is the latest venue of the Derby Brewing Co, a family run craft brewery who operate a number of other pubs in Derbyshire including The Greyhound on Friar Gate. Situated in a former maltings and garage, Notsa is located in the pretty South Derbyshire village of Aston on Trent, not far from the city centre.
Notsa’s intention is as a “contemporary hybrid café, deli and bar”. So in the daytime it feels much like a café, morphing into a pub/wine bar in the evenings. Personally I think it’s a bit of a stretch to describe it as a deli – but there is a very well stocked cake counter (I thoroughly recommend the millionaire’s shortbread which comes topped with a satisfyingly thick layer of dreamy white chocolate), plus artisan sausage rolls, scotch eggs, pork pies etc which are also available in the evenings when the kitchen closes and the bar is still open.
So far, I’ve only been for breakfasts but it’s a lovely little place to sink into a leather sofa and watch the world go by. The staff are friendly and welcoming and the service has been really prompt.
On my first visit, I ordered the smashed avocado which the menu describes as being served with harissa (which added a delightfully spicy punch) and grilled halloumi on a muffin. I was a bit surprised to see that the halloumi was actually deep fried with batter, but otherwise this was a really delicious dish. I also added an egg, which was poached to perfection.
On a subsequent visit I opted for the American style pancakes with dry cured bacon and maple syrup. The pancakes were fabulously fluffy and as always, I adored the combination of salty bacon juxtaposed with the sweet maple syrup. Being the glutton I am, I would have liked a bit more syrup – but overall a delicious brunch.
There are lots of other breakfast options – in fact it’s probably one of the most varied menus I’ve seen in a while. I always like to see some variations off the traditional Full English – and here you can choose delights such as chorizo and fried egg muffin, served with spinach and aioli. Champagne breakfasts can be booked in advance. At lunch, there’s a range of sandwiches.
As you’d expect from Derby Brewing, there’s a range of locally brewed ales plus a choice of craft beers, ciders, wines, artisan spirits and cocktails. Freshly ground barista coffees are supplied by Nottingham based 200 degrees.
All in all, Notsa in Aston in Trent is a little gem that I heartily recommend for a daytime bite to eat. I can imagine it’s a nice little drinking hole in the evening (be aware the kitchen closes at 4pm).
Go for:
A contemporary café bar with great daytime food options.
Details:
7 Derby Road, Aston on Trent, DE72 2AE, notsa@derbybrewing.co.uk, 01332 479361
Street parking.
Family friendly. Kids menu, highchairs etc.
