There is no better place to meet up with friends and family than to catch up with a delicious bite in one of our region’s restaurants.

Here at the Times & Star, we asked readers over lockdown on both our Facebook and Twitter pages, to give their recommendations for the best places to head to in the county as pubs and restaurants begin to open their doors and outside terraces.

In no particular order, here are five of your favourite places, mentioned by you, our readers.

1 QUINCE & MEDLAR RESTAURANT, COCKERMOUTH

As one of the first purely vegetarian restaurants to open in Cockermouth, Quince and Medlar has been a popular venue for veggie eaters for 30 years.

Regular visitor, Anne Suitor, said: “Delicious food in a gorgeous place with outstanding service.”

Julie Hope, said: “Fabulous, marvelous, can’t wait to go back.”

Quince and Medlar will be reopening after June 2.

2 THE OLD GIN HOUSE, WORKINGTON

This popular inn was converted from a 17th century barn and built into a family-run, food and drink serving pub. Reader Amy Bostock, said: “It was an obvious choice.”

Maureen Dobinson Kendall, said: “I love it there and particularly their gin room.”

Ray Cottier, simply said: “Can’t beat their food.”

3 THE DOVENBY SHIP, COCKERMOUTH

As a firm favourite, many readers are awaiting the full reopening of this pub on May 17.

Reader, Margaret Thomas said: “Huge Cumbrian portions, the staff are very welcoming and polite.”

Elisa Trainer, said: “I’ve missed them all, but The Ship is my go to restaurant.”

Liz Ashcroft also sung the pub’s praises. She said: “Absolutely fantastic Sunday lunch. All the staff are amazing.”

4 LA CASITA TAPAS & BAR, PENRITH

You can never beat a good tapas bar and this one in Penrith garnered many responses from our readers.

Proprietors, Debbie and Roberto have been applauded on their authentic Spanish tapas and welcoming indoor spaces.

Mike Burton, said: “We were missing Spain due to lockdown and felt this would give us a taste of Spain.

"We were right. Food was great. Service was great.”

Reader Rachel Clark, said: “Lovely little place. The tapas deal is great value and they taste great!”

5 LAKESIDE RESTAURANT AT BRAYTON PARK, ASPATRIA

Located just outside Aspatria, this restaurant is a favourite of couples and families.

Sue Harrison said this was her choice.

And Andrew Mckenna, added: “So good to wind up here after a long walk.”

Ryan Gatton, said: “I love this place. Delicious food and drink.”