Rask Review
By Esther Dark
Bringing a slice of Hygge to Derby, Rask’s Scandinavian inspired interior and healthy feel-good-food menu is a unique treasure to Derby’s Sadler Gate. Opened for just a year, Rask boasts a small, but mighty menu of fresh salads: your typical hipster avocado on toast and an array of hot drinks served in Insta-worthy glasses. Although, there’s an existing wide variety of restaurants down the trendy Sadler Gate, Rask’s serene atmosphere, and wholesome menu, makes it stand out from the crowd.
The atmosphere inside is calming: hanging plants, Ikea-esque furniture and long dining tables with books and magazines scattered around, add to the sense of homeliness and simplicity. It is a peaceful oasis from the hustle and bustle of shops outside. The staff were incredibly friendly, when I entered on Saturday, they talked me through their seasonal produce and explained the ethos of Rask. They were incredibly hospitable, giving me details to access their WiFi, and even willing to amend my dish to meet my fussy tastes.
The all-day-weekend brunch menu combines grains, pulses, oats, fruits, and health-boosting smoothies to give you an instant energy boost, whilst also tasting absolutely delicious –it really sets the bar for the rest of the day. With healthy eating on everyone’s agenda, Rask hits the spot, but also leaves you satisfied! After deliberating over their menu for ages, I ordered their avocado chili smash accompanied with poached eggs on rye bread, with a matcha late – a perfect combination of carbohydrates, and good fats which kept me full till dinner time! My friend ordered a smoothie bowl, a blend of fruits, oats, honey and yogurt, topped with delicious toppings of nuts and seeds. After our healthy fix, there was still space for a little treat, which even in Rask is possible, with their comforting delicious selection of cakes, my friend opted for a nutritious packed raw bar.
So if you’re looking for a health-kick lunch, or just a place to escape with a warming chai tea, then head down to Rask.
Open Monday-Friday 8am-3pm & Saturday 10am-2pm