The Quail & Ale Neighborhood Pub — Restaurant in Derby

We’ve passed by The Quail & Ale a few times and have been really curious to see what it’s like, so my family stopped in for dinner last night! It’s a small neighborhood pub, and it was pretty packed on a Saturday night! We were very lucky to snag a table for 4 and know next time to make reservations. The vibe is a cross between Americana and goth, and it was a cool time to visit with all of the Halloween decorations. Drinks were solid, and some dishes were better than others. French onion soup was really delicious, and so were the chicken bites in an Asian sweet and sour sauce. The knotwurst special was also tasty and was almost like a milder hot dog. One of our critiques was on the ravioli dish, which was basically swimming in butter - I know it was a brown butter sage sauce, but it was swimming in the butter and could’ve used a little more flavor. Bacon was good in it through. Our other critique is that my dad ordered a smash burger, and what came out couldn’t have been farther from a smash burger with how thick the patty was. It was okay, just didn’t match the description of what he thought he was getting. Fries also weren’t our favorite and were better if you tried to think of them as chips. Overall not a bad spot, I would definitely come back for drinks and apps! Service was fine, they handled the volume of customers well and they checked in...

My buddy is a regular at this place and recommended it. I was reluctant, based on it being in Derby but we gave it a shot. My wife and I popped in and grabbed two seats along the bar. We literally sat there for 20 minutes with dirty glasses in front of us and were ignored by the 3 people who were waiting on customers. It was busy but a simple , “ I’ll be with you in a few minutes” never happened. 2 sets of “regulars”came in and were immediately handed a drink while we sat there ignored. When the 3rd came in, and were served a drink, we figured it was time to go and got up. It wasn’t until then, the bartender that took care of everyone else said she’d wait on us. Too late at that point. We are pretty patient people but this was a bit ridiculous. Being busy is one thing, but to wait on 3 sets of people and ignore us was enough for me to get up and go. That said, we drove down the street to the Dew Drop Inn (which is almost impossible to get into) and lucked out with 2 seats at the bar. Every person working in there was attentive, greeted you, kept your drink full and thanked you as you left. Q&A needs some improvement on service. We will...

The Quail and Ale is hands-down one of the coziest spots in Derby! If you’re looking for a warm, inviting atmosphere and incredible comfort food, this is the place to be. Their Sunday Pot Roast is absolutely divine—perfectly tender, with rich, flavorful gravy that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Pair it with their creamy mashed potatoes and buttery roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a big, warm hug.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and they really make you feel like family. The drink selection is top-notch as well—whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just want a perfectly mixed cocktail, they have something for everyone.

What sets The Quail and Ale apart is their attention to detail. From the rustic decor to the thoughtfully curated menu, it’s clear they care deeply about providing a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this place never disappoints....