Monday 2nd February 2026 saw Isabel’s open the doors to its brand-new venue – having moved just across the road from where it all began three years ago.
Back in October 2025, our editor, Scott shared his take on Isabel’s, and it’s safe to say he was impressed.
This week, I decided I fancied an evening out with a couple of my friends to celebrate my birthday – and where better to go than the newly launched Isabel’s 2.0? I’d been to the original venue a couple of times before for food and drinks and I really enjoyed it, so I was excited to give the new Isabel’s a try! As a writer for Burton Echo, I thought I’d delve into the Isabel’s experience.
Isabel’s has made a real name for itself since its establishment in 2022, not only in Burton, but beyond, with people – including celebrities such as Coronation Street star Andy Whyment and Kimberly Wyatt, formerly of The Pussycat Dolls – travelling from far and wide to discover what all the hype is about.
Established by Burton born and bred DJ, Nathan Dawe, and named after his late grandmother, Isabel’s has become the place to go in Burton-on-Trent, breathing new life into the local eating out and nightlife scene. From a meet up with the girls for cocktails and a dance, to a classy meal, to a family trip out for food, to enjoying a delicious breakfast or lunch, Isabel’s is now open seven days a week to satisfy every craving.
In the first week in its new venue, Isabel’s served an astonishing 2,600+ people, and its kitchen and front-of-house staff continue to work relentlessly hard to ensure the highest of standards. This new venue that you may remember as The Locomotive has been thoughtfully transformed by Nathan into a stylish and vibrant space, featuring clean lines, contemporary and comfortable seating, warm neon lights, and intentionally placed plants to add a colour-themed, natural aura.
Bringing only good vibes, Isabel’s 2.0 offers something for everyone, whether serving as a family-friendly restaurant by day or an eatery turned nightclub by night. This fresh, spacious, and aesthetically pleasing venue boasts immaculate facilities and features a bar space and multiple rooms to create a cosy, intimate ambience.
The external building looks stunning on Burton’s Station Street and creates a great first impression of the brand, being adorned in the signature burgundy colour and pretty plants along the outside walls. Upon entry through the glass doors, the first thing you see is a beautiful flower wall matching the same colour scheme – created by local florist, The Florist Gate – and sitting in the centre of which is the bold and iconic Isabel’s logo.
When my friends and I arrived, we were greeted by a friendly staff member who showed us to our table. We were so ready for Steak and Wine Night! I tucked into a juicy sirloin steak with peppercorn sauce and sweet potato fries, and I decided to go for a glass of rosé (or two!), followed by the crème brûlée for dessert. The food was delicious and we enjoyed it within a buzzing environment with lots of chatter and laughter and upbeat music playing, and we were delighted with the service received. I know it won’t be long before my return, perhaps with my husband next time!
Alongside Tuesday’s Steak and Wine Night, the restaurant’s other themed menus are Monday Blues, where guests can enjoy chilled RnB music while feasting on a sumptuous dish; Wednesday’s Pizza Club; Thursday’s £15 Pasta and Prosecco Night; Friday and Saturday live entertainment evenings including DJs; and on Sundays, a mouth-watering roast dinner available 12pm-7pm. This is while breakfast is served every day from 9am, alongside coffee and matcha all day long with takeaway available, £10 lunches Monday to Saturday from 12pm, and Happy Hour Monday to Friday 4pm-6pm.
Additionally, Isabel’s features a garden and terrace, inspired by the relaxed and casual opulence of Isabel’s Beach Club in Greece. My friends and I didn’t venture out there this time around, but that’s not to say it isn’t ideal for winter, with coverings and heating. I look forward to experiencing this outdoor space in the summer as it looks to host BBQs, ice-cold drinks, live music, and an unmatched lively atmosphere. The terrace is also dog-friendly, so dog lovers can bring their four-legged friends along.
Nathan Dawe has created something truly special with Isabel’s and it can only do great things for Burton-on-Trent. Not only does it provide a premium destination for locals to enjoy, but it will no doubt continue to bring a lot of new visitors to the town, too.
For more information about Isabel’s, visit the website, Instagram, or Facebook page. If you would like to dine, the restaurant does try to accommodate walk-ins, however, to avoid disappointment, it is recommended that you book a table in advance.
Please note that this is not a paid advertorial.