Business Details
Fine Food in the Yorkshire Dales
We are a family-run restaurant nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, where tradition meets innovation in every dish we serve. Our culinary philosophy revolves around using the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers, including Nidderdale lamb, Yorkshire coast fish, and regional vegetables, all meticulously prepared to highlight their natural flavours. Under the guidance of head chef Margaret Ninness, our team crafts menus that evolve with the seasons, ensuring a dining experience that reflects the best of what Yorkshire has to offer year-round.We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy intimate dinners, family celebrations, or casual meals, complemented by our renowned afternoon teas featuring homemade scones and cakes. Our historic 18th-century cottages provide comfortable accommodation for guests seeking a countryside escape, blending modern amenities with period charm.
Services
Restaurant
B&B Accommodation
Afternoon Tea
Private Dining
Seasonal Menus
Highlights and features
- We use exclusively local Yorkshire ingredients in our daily-prepared dishes
- Our chef curates seasonal menus that reflect regional availability
- Historic 18th-century cottages provide unique accommodation options
- Award-winning afternoon teas with homemade regional treats
- Family-friendly dining with special attention to private events
What people say
Locally sourced ingredients
Seasonal creativity
Attentive service
Authentic Yorkshire cuisine
Charming setting
Services
Lunch
Our lunch service features a carefully crafted menu showcasing Yorkshire's finest produce. Guests can enjoy dishes like slow-cooked steak pie with hand-cut chips or the classic Willow Ploughman's. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for casual meals while maintaining our commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation techniques that highlight seasonal availability.
Evening Dining
The evening menu offers elevated renditions of regional specialties, including rack of Nidderdale lamb served with minted pea mash and Greshingham duck breast with exotic glaze. Each dish reflects Margaret Ninness's creative approach while maintaining traditional Yorkshire culinary principles, presented in an intimate setting that enhances the fine dining experience.
Accommodation
Our historic 18th-century cottages provide comfortable overnight stays with modern amenities. The two character-filled en-suite rooms feature period details combined with contemporary comforts like reading nooks and television access. Guests receive complimentary breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, served in front of a welcoming fireplace each morning.
Afternoon Tea
The Willow Restaurant Afternoon Tea is a popular choice featuring homemade sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, and artisan cakes. The cream tea option focuses on traditional Yorkshire treats, including homemade fudge. Every element uses local ingredients prepared daily to maintain freshness and authenticity.
Private Events
We host intimate dinners for two, family celebrations, and larger group events in our dining space. The flexible venue accommodates various party sizes while maintaining an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. Our team works closely with guests to create tailored menus that reflect specific preferences while maintaining seasonal ingredient integrity.
People
Margaret Ninness
Head Chef & Owner
Passionate about regional cuisine, Margaret leads kitchen operations with over 20 years' experience in Yorkshire hospitality. Her culinary approach emphasizes local sourcing and seasonal creativity, ensuring every dish reflects the Dales' natural abundance through traditional techniques with modern presentation.
Questions
What is The Willow Restaurant Restaurant's culinary specialty?
We specialise in traditional Yorkshire cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Our seasonal menus change regularly to utilise the best produce available from the Yorkshire Dales and coast.
Do you offer accommodation options?
Yes, we have two character-filled en-suite rooms in our 18th-century cottages, along with private cottage rentals available for larger groups or families.
What dining options are available?
We serve lunch daily 10am-2:30pm and dinner Wednesday-Saturday 6pm-8:30pm. The menu features breakfast items, light lunches, and evening fine dining options.
Are special dietary requirements accommodated?
We can cater to most dietary needs when pre-arranged. Our kitchen staff prepares dishes individually from fresh ingredients, allowing flexibility for specific requirements.
Can I book for large groups?
We welcome groups of six or more. Please contact us directly to discuss availability and menu options tailored to your party's requirements.
What makes The Willow Restaurant unique?
Our combination of historic 18th-century architecture, Margaret's expertly crafted Yorkshire cuisine, and commitment to using local producers creates a distinctive dining experience rooted in regional traditions.
Reviews (6)
Kim Russo
Oct 29, 2021
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A group of us ate at the new Willow last night and it was just as amazing as we remembered it being! Everyone
Enjoyed their meals, the service was great, and the atmosphere was relaxing. We cant wait to go back again!
Enjoyed their meals, the service was great, and the atmosphere was relaxing. We cant wait to go back again!
Susan Anthony
Oct 22, 2021
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Aaahh..the smell of Willow when you walk in the door! I so missed it! The atmosphere, cocktails and food are just as special as I remember. This place deserves to be more crowded. There are not many spots in Pittsburgh as special as Willow. This one deserves more attention.
Meg A. Watt
Sep 17, 2021
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We really enjoyed our meal at Willow. The staff seemed to be short so we didn't get a lot of personalized attention, but our base needs were met. However, we were inside and the table next to us was INSANELY loud so we couldn't hear each other at our own table. It was definitely a deterrent to an enjoyable meal.
Jeff Dziki
Aug 26, 2021
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I try to give positive reviews or say nothing. But this was awful. Food and service were both bad. Appetizer sat under heat lamp too long. Salmon was literally raw. Beans and greens were just large. Only a lot of salt helped. Don't go.
Nicole Perko
Jul 25, 2021
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Wonderful outdoor dining this evening! Our waiter was extremely attentive and the food was delicious! Have not been here since the new owners took over and so far I'm very pleased.
Henna Kumar
May 22, 2021
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I was surprised that the restaurant had changed ownership, the new menu was interesting so we tried a few different things. The calamari was sweeter,tempura cauliflower was not so good, coconut shrimp was ok, sea bass was cooked well , everything was bland or sweet. Food lacked flavor. Even the mashed potatoes were flavorless. Not impressed. Food felt like it was for someone on a restricted diet. The Cuban and Aviation cocktails were great. So A1 for service and drinks. Overall disappointed.
