CDJ Riverside Bar

Menu

Restaurant

A culinary and visual feast

At The CDJ Riverside Bar, history intertwines seamlessly with modern sophistication, offering a dining experience that is both timeless and captivating.

Originally known as The Swan, our building’s story dates back to Lower Darwen village on Fore Street. Although the original structure met its end in the early 1900s, it was resurrected in 1907 as another ‘Swan’, this time north of the river . In more recent years, the building gained prominence as ‘Uncle Jacks,’ a beloved destination for locals, Blackburn Rovers fans, and visiting football aficionados.

Rooted in Lancashire. Built for sharing.

At CDJ Riverside, we believe dining should be as sociable as it is delicious. Whether you’re sharing our signature small plates with friends, sipping something special at the bar, or experiencing our Chef’s Table, every visit is designed to feel special — without the fuss.

Led by local chef and co-founder Dan Jolley, CDJ earned an AA Rosette for culinary excellence in our first year, with a menu inspired by bold flavours, seasonal British produce, and Dan’s 20+ years in Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe.

Set in a lovingly restored riverside building with a rich history in Darwen, we’ve created a space that celebrates both the past and the present — blending warmth, style, and community.

Events

Host Your Next Event at CDJ Riverside

Celebrate in style at one of Lancashire’s most unique dining destinations. Whether you’re planning a wedding reception, family party, corporate dinner, or private tasting — CDJ Riverside offers versatile spaces, great food, and a relaxed, elegant setting.

  • Riverside Garden Terrace – Ideal for al fresco dining, cocktails, or summer music nights.

  • Live music nights & private hire – Add atmosphere to your next gathering.

  • Stone-fired pizza & small plates – Crowd-pleasing menus for any occasion.

  • Cocktails, craft beers & fine wines – Drinks designed to match the mood.

Riverside Bar

Your spot for sipping and socialising

Your riverside spot for expertly crafted drinks and good company.
From fine wines and champagnes to sought-after spirits, bold cocktails, and celebrated ales, our bar team brings a fresh twist to classics — served with style.

Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed drink, a signature cocktail, or to pair your evening with Chef Dan’s award-winning small plates, Riverside Bar is made for moments worth savouring.

Chef Dan

A culinary journey

With over 20 years in some of Europe’s top Michelin-starred kitchens — including Noma, The Square, and Hélène Darroze — Chef Dan Jolley brings a world-class approach to every plate.

 

A Lancashire local and co-founder of CDJ Riverside, Dan is passionate about bold flavours, seasonal ingredients, and dishes that invite sharing. His focus on health, quality, and creativity led to CDJ earning an AA Rosette in our first year.

“For me, food should be fresh, sociable, and full of flavour — something people talk about long after the last bite.”