About This Pub
You know, when I popped the details on CDJ Riverside, I couldn't help but get excited about what sounds like a real hidden gem down by the river. The food steals the show, with Chef Dan Jolley's background in Michelin-starred kitchens shining through in every dish – think innovative creations that balance great taste with healthy vibes, using the best local ingredients. From the reviews, it's clear folks are raving about the quality and thought that goes into it, whether it's the small plates or special menus like the Christmas one. The place itself has this wonderful mix of history and modern charm, with beautiful decor and an outside area that's bound to be a winner in the summer months. Service seems spot on too, with attentive staff who make the experience even better. On the flip side, it's only open five days a week, which might mean you'll have to plan ahead if you're keen for a visit. And while it's worth the effort, prices might add up given the premium feel, so it's probably best for those special occasions rather than a quick bite. All in all, it's a fantastic addition to the area and I'd say it's well worth seeking out for a memorable meal with mates.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is absolutely top-notch, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make every dish feel like a real treat.
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The atmosphere and decor are stunning, especially the riverside location that sounds perfect for a sunny day out.
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Service is warm and attentive, making you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
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It's a brilliant spot for special occasions, with options like the chef's table and events that add a bit of excitement to your visit.
Cons
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It might only be open five days a week, so you'll need to check the schedule to avoid disappointment.
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With its focus on high-quality ingredients and experiences, it could be on the pricier side, which might not suit everyone for a casual night.
Contact Information
Branch Rd, Lower Darwen, Darwen BB3 0PF
+441254801691
Restaurant
Closed
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Thursday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Friday (Today) | 12:00 - 01:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 01:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Recent Reviews
The food is great and obviously really well thought out with high quality ingredients. The decor of the place is also beautiful - looks like the outside section will be lovely in summer too. Also some of the nicest toilets I've seen in a restaurant! Definitely a great addition to the area and just the type of restaurant needed.
If I were to be picky (does not take away from the overall vibe), with the nature of the menu, sometimes it felt like we had too many things on the table at once which can make it a bit cluttered. Also, I think the dress code is a great idea but some guests perhaps weren't adhering to this so perhaps needs to be enforced more.
I have to say this is my favourite restaurant!!!
We love dining out and do so at least once a week and we often have to travel at least 30 mins to somewhere we feel is worth eating as we seem to be missing good quality restaurants near by where bc he’d serve top quality produce food and experience. UNTIL NOW! CDJs delivers on every element food ✅, quality ✅, atmosphere ✅, service ✅ drink ✅ interior ✅ basically this restaurant has it all and I’m so pleased I only have to travel 10-15 mins to get here! Our family and friends love it here too as we all rave about it! Thanks and we’ll be back again next week more than likely 🤣❤️
(Pics from different nights and visits but you can see the presentation and quality is outstanding)
We had a lovely evening over at CDJ, we were on the small plates menu and we loved every dish, they sat us at the chefs table too which was nice. The restaurant is stunning, it was winter when we visited but we plan to return when we get back into summer as the outside decking area looks like a great space.
Came for a Christmas date night & went for the 3 course Christmas menu they had on.
We was offered a table at the chefs table overlooking the kitchen or a normal table, we chose the chefs table.
We was greeted by the chefs & given some bread & dip to share whilst we ordered drinks & food.
Service was excellent, the food was incredible from start to finish & the wine was also lovely. We asked to delay our desserts so we could sit for longer to enjoy our wine & let the food settle before the third course & they were more than happy to oblige.
Overall a very good meal, we will happily return time & time again & I can’t wait to try other dishes.
Been wanting to go for a while, and the things I've heard have really lived up to it.
The restaurant is amazing and the bar brilliant didn't want to take a picture of it with everyone being busy, but it looks amazing.
Now the food didn't have the tapas but that will happen next time I visit, I had the chicken burger and my wife had the fish and chips.
Amazing great food at a really good price, credit to chef Dan and the whole team.
Great to have a place like this in Darwen.
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