The Bottle Kiln

kazcaine

A lovely little place 3rd September 2008

0 found this helpful

The Bottle Kiln is a cafe come restaurant come shop and is based in West Hallam, Ilkeston. It's one of those places I like to visit on holiday and browse, taking my time.
It is home-made food and is absolutely gorgeous, from flans and quiches to fruit scones and gateau. There is something for everyone. It is really busy at lunch-time, so much so that you can really struggle to get parked in the tiny car park. However the church next door allows parking in there. I would say the food is really pricey but worth it. Watch out for things like having salad on the side as they then charge about £4 for the salad alone, it doesnt come with the quiche for example yet they ask if you want salad and its easy to assume that comes with it! They do fab coffees and the hot chocolate is even better. There is a downstairs, more open eating area which is great for those with pushchairs. There is also a lovely shop to look round, selling jewellery, cards, books...lots of little bits and pieces and has a lovely atmosphere. The only thing stopping it from getting 5 stars is the staff. There are a couple at the food counter who aren't particularly friendly and one grumbled because I asked for help with my tray as had my baby with me.