The Martlet Kitchen

The Martlet Kitchen is a very welcome addition to Rochdale’s food scene. The restaurant in the refurbished town hall serves robust British food in an impressively grand setting.

Chef Darren Parkinson previously worked at the renowned Shibden Mill in Halifax where he earned two AA Rosettes. Now, he serves reimagined Northern classics like ale-battered haddock and chips or a sturdy rag pudding with hasselback potatoes.

In the evenings, things are a little fancier with dishes like pan-fried Scottish scallops with Yorkshire asparagus or grilled pork cutlet with red onion tarte tatin.

The Martlet Kitchen also serves a cracking Sunday lunch (something of a speciality for Parkinson) and an impressive afternoon tea. 

It’s great to find somewhere that mixes no-nonsense, down-to-earth flavours with quality ingredients, a spectacular setting and a touch of something special.