PAST EVENTS/REVIEWS
Hansa's Gujarati
6th November 2013
* * * *
By FoodSoc member Oliver Aird - check out his other reviews at http://tapasbarstomichelinstars.blogspot.co.uk/.
Introducing the concept of Indian Vegetarian Cuisine throughout Leeds since 1986, owner and Head Chef Hansa Dabhi now employs an all female workforce at the city centre restaurant 'Hansa's'. After I was at first sceptical myself, I instinctively feel the need to stress how the all vegetarian concept should not put you off making a visit to this award winning restaurant. After finding out that Hansa herself has a published cook-book, I was enthusiastic to see what all the fuss was about.
Visiting Hansa's with the University of Leeds Food Society, we were in a big enough group to experience the 'Hansa's Banquet'- Two starters, two specialities and two main course curries, served with rotli, puris and pilau rice. Plus, two desserts.
Upon entering the the restaurant we were shown upstairs to a dimly lit room with sheets hanging across the ceiling and a vibrant red theme throughout. There was an authentic Indian feel about the place and as the smell of spices began to fill the restaurant, the stage was set.
The bar was immediately set high with the Chilli Paneer starter. Complete with 'Paneer cubes marinated with a hot spicy chilli sauce and served on a bed of lettuce', the sauce had something of a 'sweet and sour' taste and left a surprisingly dangerous kick of spice on the pallet. The dish was a personal favourite from the entire meal and my fellow diners were not shy in sharing similar thoughts!
The two speciality dishes were also of similar standard-
Pani Puri- Miniature bite-size puris, stuffed with slightly spiced chickpeas and chopped onion mixture, to be eaten it in one bite with a lashing of tamarind sauce.
Pau Bhaji- Toasted mini baps topped with a spicy veg mixture, garnished with chopped onions,
tomatoes and coriander.
The Pani Puri looked like it was full of flavour and with some tamarind sauce on top, the taste did not dissappoint. The mixture of spiced chickpeas and onions had more flavour than I presumed it would and the crunch of the puri added a nice touch.
Full of flavour and with a generous amount of spice(!), the Pau Bhaji also received a great response from all diners and the slightly toasted bap added a nice texture to the two dishes. Both were dishes that I had not tried before and both were more than satisfying.
For the curry mains-
Bhaji Paneer Curry- A mixture of Paneer cheese and Spinach.
Bhagat Muthiya- Chickpea koftas and potatoes made into a lightly spiced curry.
Both dishes were very different in both flavour and appearance and the Bhagat Muthiya was definitely the better of the two for me. The Chickpea Koftas resembled that of small meatballs and were surprisingly good in taste with a somewhat crumbly texture. The sauce was just nice in spice and reminded me of a Biryani style curry
The Bhaji Paneer dish was completely different, with a much thicker texture and a lot spicier! (although the level of spice did appear to differ depending on which bowl you took a portion from). I was not this dishes biggest fan and as the third course of Paneer cheese, I did not go back for seconds. Although I was not alone in my opinions, it's worth mentioning that some other diners did prefer this curry over the Bhagat Muthiya. A mixed reaction for the mains from around the table!
However, there definitely wasn't much debate when it came to the rotli, puris and pilau rice that accompanied the curries. Everyone loved the puris in particular- light, fresh and full of flavour, the puris was a big hit!
After such an array of starters, specialities, mains and sides, everyone was intrigued by what this unique restaurant would produce for dessert and I was keen to find out!
Gajjar Halwa - finely grated carrots, almond and raisins Halwa, garnished with aromatic cardamon, served hot with refreshing Vanilla ice cream.
Fruit Shrikhand - Hansa’s own creation of a Gujarati yoghurt dessert with tangy tropical fruit and garnishing of aromatic cardamon.
Although the Fruit Shrikhand was good, it was nothing compared to the Gajjar Halwa.
This dish stood in a league of its own, tasting similar to a carrot cake but with extra flavour and texture. The cardamon shone through, followed by the almond and raisins and then that final sweet carrot taste. The ice cream added a nice touch and both me and my fellow diners were left feeling satisfied after an interesting meal.
So, the Hansa's experience was just that...an experience. My eyes were opened up to a whole new side of Indian cuisine that went far beyond the curries and naan breads of your standard Indian restaurants. Whilst some dishes were highly praised by all and others found mixed reviews, what is certain is that if you want to try something new, different and aren't afraid to take a pass on meat for the night, then Hansa's is the place to go!
Food- **** / Atmosphere- **** / Staff- ***** / Location-***
Introducing the concept of Indian Vegetarian Cuisine throughout Leeds since 1986, owner and Head Chef Hansa Dabhi now employs an all female workforce at the city centre restaurant 'Hansa's'. After I was at first sceptical myself, I instinctively feel the need to stress how the all vegetarian concept should not put you off making a visit to this award winning restaurant. After finding out that Hansa herself has a published cook-book, I was enthusiastic to see what all the fuss was about.
Visiting Hansa's with the University of Leeds Food Society, we were in a big enough group to experience the 'Hansa's Banquet'- Two starters, two specialities and two main course curries, served with rotli, puris and pilau rice. Plus, two desserts.
Upon entering the the restaurant we were shown upstairs to a dimly lit room with sheets hanging across the ceiling and a vibrant red theme throughout. There was an authentic Indian feel about the place and as the smell of spices began to fill the restaurant, the stage was set.
The bar was immediately set high with the Chilli Paneer starter. Complete with 'Paneer cubes marinated with a hot spicy chilli sauce and served on a bed of lettuce', the sauce had something of a 'sweet and sour' taste and left a surprisingly dangerous kick of spice on the pallet. The dish was a personal favourite from the entire meal and my fellow diners were not shy in sharing similar thoughts!
The two speciality dishes were also of similar standard-
Pani Puri- Miniature bite-size puris, stuffed with slightly spiced chickpeas and chopped onion mixture, to be eaten it in one bite with a lashing of tamarind sauce.
Pau Bhaji- Toasted mini baps topped with a spicy veg mixture, garnished with chopped onions,
tomatoes and coriander.
The Pani Puri looked like it was full of flavour and with some tamarind sauce on top, the taste did not dissappoint. The mixture of spiced chickpeas and onions had more flavour than I presumed it would and the crunch of the puri added a nice touch.
Full of flavour and with a generous amount of spice(!), the Pau Bhaji also received a great response from all diners and the slightly toasted bap added a nice texture to the two dishes. Both were dishes that I had not tried before and both were more than satisfying.
For the curry mains-
Bhaji Paneer Curry- A mixture of Paneer cheese and Spinach.
Bhagat Muthiya- Chickpea koftas and potatoes made into a lightly spiced curry.
Both dishes were very different in both flavour and appearance and the Bhagat Muthiya was definitely the better of the two for me. The Chickpea Koftas resembled that of small meatballs and were surprisingly good in taste with a somewhat crumbly texture. The sauce was just nice in spice and reminded me of a Biryani style curry
The Bhaji Paneer dish was completely different, with a much thicker texture and a lot spicier! (although the level of spice did appear to differ depending on which bowl you took a portion from). I was not this dishes biggest fan and as the third course of Paneer cheese, I did not go back for seconds. Although I was not alone in my opinions, it's worth mentioning that some other diners did prefer this curry over the Bhagat Muthiya. A mixed reaction for the mains from around the table!
However, there definitely wasn't much debate when it came to the rotli, puris and pilau rice that accompanied the curries. Everyone loved the puris in particular- light, fresh and full of flavour, the puris was a big hit!
After such an array of starters, specialities, mains and sides, everyone was intrigued by what this unique restaurant would produce for dessert and I was keen to find out!
Gajjar Halwa - finely grated carrots, almond and raisins Halwa, garnished with aromatic cardamon, served hot with refreshing Vanilla ice cream.
Fruit Shrikhand - Hansa’s own creation of a Gujarati yoghurt dessert with tangy tropical fruit and garnishing of aromatic cardamon.
Although the Fruit Shrikhand was good, it was nothing compared to the Gajjar Halwa.
This dish stood in a league of its own, tasting similar to a carrot cake but with extra flavour and texture. The cardamon shone through, followed by the almond and raisins and then that final sweet carrot taste. The ice cream added a nice touch and both me and my fellow diners were left feeling satisfied after an interesting meal.
So, the Hansa's experience was just that...an experience. My eyes were opened up to a whole new side of Indian cuisine that went far beyond the curries and naan breads of your standard Indian restaurants. Whilst some dishes were highly praised by all and others found mixed reviews, what is certain is that if you want to try something new, different and aren't afraid to take a pass on meat for the night, then Hansa's is the place to go!
Food- **** / Atmosphere- **** / Staff- ***** / Location-***
Shear's Yard
3rd October 2013
* * * *
By FoodSoc member Oliver Aird - check out his other reviews at http://tapasbarstomichelinstars.blogspot.co.uk/
Amongs the abundance of restaurants Leeds has to offer, being the 'Newbie' is not always easy! So when the team behind the Arts Cafe announced the opening of a brand new 'Independent Kitchen and Bar', the standards were set high.
Tucked away in a corner down the Calls, the building could easily be missed and as I approach, the blank exterior is already giving me reason for concern.
However, all is soon forgotten as you enter through the large glass doors into an intimate bar area complete with candle-lit tables and low ceilings with exposed beams. The dining area builds on this already enticing atmosphere with light bulbs hanging freely from the ceiling. Simple, and yet somewhat alluring.
The smell from the kitchen soon wandered into the dining area and after such a warming start, the stage was set. dining with the leeds university union food society, the team at Shears Yard were kind enough to create a set menu for us at a discounted rate and I started off with the ham hock terrine, aerated piccalilli sauce, pickled cauliflower & ciabatta croutes.
Upon arrival, the starter's somewhat artistic description was not let down by it's creative presentation, with the aerated piccalilli sauce leading the show. Paired with the surprisingly light ham hock terrine, the two bold flavours worked well together and the ciabatta croutes added a nice touch.
Eager to continue, there wasn't much debate when it came to the main course; duo of pork - slow cooked pork belly & braised cheeks with heritage carrots & pork jus.
As one of my favourite meats, I've come to realise that pork belly can easily be done poorly and I'm glad to say that the chefs at Shear's Yard did not disappoint.
The presentation was again superb and the taste exceptional. The pork belly was possibly the best I have ever tasted and the braised cheek was surprisingly succulent and full of flavour. The carrots and delicate flavouring of the jus was a nice addition to what was an excellent course.
I'm also reliably informed by fellow diners that the fillet of hake, almond crust, warm Nicoise salad, deep fried egg yolk and smoked potato puree, was also a favourite on the night, with both presentation and taste getting top marks.
To finish off two superb courses, I was now expecting a dessert of a similar standard. However, although creative in appearance, I was somewhat disappointed by the flavour of the passion fruit curd and pistachio corral with creme pate, white chocolate sorbet and soil.
Combined with the sorbet, the passion fruit curd was a phenomenal in flavour and yet the plate was dominated with a flavourless white powder (dubbed white chocolate 'soil'). The pistachio corral also lacked flavour and unfortunately the refreshing passion fruit corral also lacked flavour and unfortunately the refreshing passion fruit curd was undermined by its counterparts.
However I must admit that following the exceptional quality of the first two courses, I may have set the dessert bar a bit high.
As the evening came to an end, I was thoroughly impressed with what shears yard had to offer. the quality of the food, in both presentation and taste, combined with the friendly staff, enticing atmosphere and unique interior design, sits shears yard comfortably amongst some of the best restaurants Leeds has to offer.
Once you overcome the somewhat uninviting exterior, this 'Newbie' is a must visit restaurant and to be of this quality when newly opened, I have no doubt that Shears Yard is one to look out for.
Food **** / Atmosphere **** / Staff **** / Location ***
Amongs the abundance of restaurants Leeds has to offer, being the 'Newbie' is not always easy! So when the team behind the Arts Cafe announced the opening of a brand new 'Independent Kitchen and Bar', the standards were set high.
Tucked away in a corner down the Calls, the building could easily be missed and as I approach, the blank exterior is already giving me reason for concern.
However, all is soon forgotten as you enter through the large glass doors into an intimate bar area complete with candle-lit tables and low ceilings with exposed beams. The dining area builds on this already enticing atmosphere with light bulbs hanging freely from the ceiling. Simple, and yet somewhat alluring.
The smell from the kitchen soon wandered into the dining area and after such a warming start, the stage was set. dining with the leeds university union food society, the team at Shears Yard were kind enough to create a set menu for us at a discounted rate and I started off with the ham hock terrine, aerated piccalilli sauce, pickled cauliflower & ciabatta croutes.
Upon arrival, the starter's somewhat artistic description was not let down by it's creative presentation, with the aerated piccalilli sauce leading the show. Paired with the surprisingly light ham hock terrine, the two bold flavours worked well together and the ciabatta croutes added a nice touch.
Eager to continue, there wasn't much debate when it came to the main course; duo of pork - slow cooked pork belly & braised cheeks with heritage carrots & pork jus.
As one of my favourite meats, I've come to realise that pork belly can easily be done poorly and I'm glad to say that the chefs at Shear's Yard did not disappoint.
The presentation was again superb and the taste exceptional. The pork belly was possibly the best I have ever tasted and the braised cheek was surprisingly succulent and full of flavour. The carrots and delicate flavouring of the jus was a nice addition to what was an excellent course.
I'm also reliably informed by fellow diners that the fillet of hake, almond crust, warm Nicoise salad, deep fried egg yolk and smoked potato puree, was also a favourite on the night, with both presentation and taste getting top marks.
To finish off two superb courses, I was now expecting a dessert of a similar standard. However, although creative in appearance, I was somewhat disappointed by the flavour of the passion fruit curd and pistachio corral with creme pate, white chocolate sorbet and soil.
Combined with the sorbet, the passion fruit curd was a phenomenal in flavour and yet the plate was dominated with a flavourless white powder (dubbed white chocolate 'soil'). The pistachio corral also lacked flavour and unfortunately the refreshing passion fruit corral also lacked flavour and unfortunately the refreshing passion fruit curd was undermined by its counterparts.
However I must admit that following the exceptional quality of the first two courses, I may have set the dessert bar a bit high.
As the evening came to an end, I was thoroughly impressed with what shears yard had to offer. the quality of the food, in both presentation and taste, combined with the friendly staff, enticing atmosphere and unique interior design, sits shears yard comfortably amongst some of the best restaurants Leeds has to offer.
Once you overcome the somewhat uninviting exterior, this 'Newbie' is a must visit restaurant and to be of this quality when newly opened, I have no doubt that Shears Yard is one to look out for.
Food **** / Atmosphere **** / Staff **** / Location ***
Reds True bbq
11th March 2013
* * * * *
We had the Feasting Menu consisting of Mountains of St Louis and baby backs, rib tips, BBQ chicken, Texas Hotlinks, pulled pork and beef brisket. A mountain of BBQ goodness, served with fries, cornbread and one side per person plus a slug of bourbon per person or a jug of sweet iced tea.
The quality of the food was outstanding, with produce being of the best quality and treated with the upmost care. The ribs, Texas Hotlink sausages and the homemade sauce selection were particularly good, with Foodie members loving the pairing of Bourbon with their meat!
With the open plan kitchen, Reds has a key underlying mantra of "Food with Integrity". As this restaurant only opened in September 2012, American BBQ culture is still slightly foreign to us Brits, however Reds BBQ are really transforming the way American BBQ is being viewed in the UK - a ground breaking restaurant in the Leeds dining market!
The service equally matched the food, as they have a constantly updated ”Running Low/Sold Out” chalk board above the grill for customers and staff to keep updated, the restaurant ran extremely smoothly. Would recommend this restaurant for a really enjoyable night out with friends, or a relaxed night with the family.
As it is was our AGM, congratulations to the new committee members! And thanks for everyone who came along and voted!
The quality of the food was outstanding, with produce being of the best quality and treated with the upmost care. The ribs, Texas Hotlink sausages and the homemade sauce selection were particularly good, with Foodie members loving the pairing of Bourbon with their meat!
With the open plan kitchen, Reds has a key underlying mantra of "Food with Integrity". As this restaurant only opened in September 2012, American BBQ culture is still slightly foreign to us Brits, however Reds BBQ are really transforming the way American BBQ is being viewed in the UK - a ground breaking restaurant in the Leeds dining market!
The service equally matched the food, as they have a constantly updated ”Running Low/Sold Out” chalk board above the grill for customers and staff to keep updated, the restaurant ran extremely smoothly. Would recommend this restaurant for a really enjoyable night out with friends, or a relaxed night with the family.
As it is was our AGM, congratulations to the new committee members! And thanks for everyone who came along and voted!
Thai Sabi
7th February 2013
* * *
The words Thai Sabai mean ‘a feeling of well-being, a place to relax', a phrase that encapsulates their philosophy with simple décor and friendly attentive service combined with exquisitely flavoured authentic Thai cuisine. Winning the Olivier Awards for Best Oriental Restaurant in 2010 and the H2B Dining Awards for Best Veggie Restaurant in 2010 this is one not to miss!
Food Soc had the Early Bird Menu (before 7pm) consisting of a starter, main and a drink for £11.90! Thai Sabai really nailed the simplicity of Thai food, with big bold flavours and perfectly balancing spicy and sweet - a true hint to a good Thai restaurant! The Tom Yum Hed (Hot and sour soup) and Pla Shu Shee (Fish coconut curry) were particularly good. The service was quick, staff friendly and decor simple. Would recommend Thai Sabai for a fuss free evening, and a good value meal out with friends.
Food Soc had the Early Bird Menu (before 7pm) consisting of a starter, main and a drink for £11.90! Thai Sabai really nailed the simplicity of Thai food, with big bold flavours and perfectly balancing spicy and sweet - a true hint to a good Thai restaurant! The Tom Yum Hed (Hot and sour soup) and Pla Shu Shee (Fish coconut curry) were particularly good. The service was quick, staff friendly and decor simple. Would recommend Thai Sabai for a fuss free evening, and a good value meal out with friends.
Kendell's Bistro (Christmas Meal)
29th november 2012
* * * * *
Kendells was the winner of the Leeds Best Restaurant award in 2010 and labelled the most romantic restaurant in Leeds so we're sure you'll all love it! With it's blackboard menus and open plan kitchen, Kendells gives an exquisite sense of Parisian Flair!
The menu is updated on a daily basis as the kitchen almost exclusively use local produce and work with what is available each day.
Kendells is a definite "must-go" in Leeds. This bistro takes you straight to the middle of Paris, with a charming decor and candle lit tables. The menus are changed daily, giving diners the best produce and taste of French food. Food Soc were lucky enough to sample some classic french dishes that were on the menu that evening, with the Ille Flottant being particularly good! Couldn't recommend this restaurant higher. A perfect venue for taking your parents out to dinner when they visit!
The menu is updated on a daily basis as the kitchen almost exclusively use local produce and work with what is available each day.
Kendells is a definite "must-go" in Leeds. This bistro takes you straight to the middle of Paris, with a charming decor and candle lit tables. The menus are changed daily, giving diners the best produce and taste of French food. Food Soc were lucky enough to sample some classic french dishes that were on the menu that evening, with the Ille Flottant being particularly good! Couldn't recommend this restaurant higher. A perfect venue for taking your parents out to dinner when they visit!
Christkindelmarkt and Whitelocks
15th November 2012
* * * *
Christkindelmarkt, Leeds is one of the most established German Christmas Markets in the UK, with traditional wooden stalls, festive greenery, Christmas carousel ride and twinkling colourful lights all creating a unique continental style festive atmosphere in the heart of Leeds city centre.Afterwards, we had drinks in the oldest pub in leeds, Whitelocks (http://www.whitelocksleeds.com/)
Whitelocks is a charming pub, infusing the history and new life of Leeds. Serving an array of real ale and craft beers – many from Yorkshire breweries this is a great spot to chill by the log fire with friends. Although Food Soc didn't get a chance to sample the food, Whitelocks serves homely traditional English dishes, making this pub the best kept secret in Leeds!
Whitelocks is a charming pub, infusing the history and new life of Leeds. Serving an array of real ale and craft beers – many from Yorkshire breweries this is a great spot to chill by the log fire with friends. Although Food Soc didn't get a chance to sample the food, Whitelocks serves homely traditional English dishes, making this pub the best kept secret in Leeds!
Distrikt
23rd octoBer 2012
* * * *
Founded in 2009, Distrikt was the creation of five highly innovative yet unique individuals all specialising in a certain aspect of the bar industry, hoping to offer Leeds a fresh perspective on the bar/restaurant environment. Freshly made Mediterranean and Middle Eastern tapas from the award winning chefs, a diverse and quality drinks menu all mixed with some of the best local, national and internationally recognised talented djs and live music performances, vibrant art from leeds rawest talents and most importantly Distrikt will offer you a warm and welcoming invite to their little home made from love.
This event, the restaurant supplied us with a tasting menu of Mediterranean goodness! We shared a starter of meat platters, Mediterranean roasted veggies, warm pitta bread and house dips. The smoked duck was a particular favourite with our foodies, along with the red pepper and coriander dip. For the main, we shared a selection of sticky ribs, harissa chicken wings, squid and arancini, which were all fantastic! These famous ribs lived up to their reputation and were sticky, succulent and super tasty. The dessert was also very nice. The homemade Lebanese donuts, with an unusual twist of lime syrup with a spicy kick is definitely worth a try! The rest of the evening followed with salsa dancing and music, an exciting atmosphere to top off a great evening.
This event, the restaurant supplied us with a tasting menu of Mediterranean goodness! We shared a starter of meat platters, Mediterranean roasted veggies, warm pitta bread and house dips. The smoked duck was a particular favourite with our foodies, along with the red pepper and coriander dip. For the main, we shared a selection of sticky ribs, harissa chicken wings, squid and arancini, which were all fantastic! These famous ribs lived up to their reputation and were sticky, succulent and super tasty. The dessert was also very nice. The homemade Lebanese donuts, with an unusual twist of lime syrup with a spicy kick is definitely worth a try! The rest of the evening followed with salsa dancing and music, an exciting atmosphere to top off a great evening.
Leeds Loves Food Festival
May 2012
A regular favourite of the LUU Food Soc! You can enjoy events, food sampling, recipe ideas, market stalls and cooking demonstrations. This festival is a great way to see all the local producers and their wonderful produce, a real sense of community and a nice day out from the hustle and bustle of the city and Uni life.
We also took this opportunity to visit the various events at a variety of locations around Leeds including: Leeds Kirkgate Market, Leeds Corn Exchange, Victoria Quarter, The Light, St John’s Centre, Merrion Centre and of course Millennium Square.
We also took this opportunity to visit the various events at a variety of locations around Leeds including: Leeds Kirkgate Market, Leeds Corn Exchange, Victoria Quarter, The Light, St John’s Centre, Merrion Centre and of course Millennium Square.
Create
April 2012
* * *
"Create’s dedication and innovative approach make a real difference… they are a proud example of the Big Society I want to see across the UK" - David Cameron, Prime Minister
This restaurant serves up exciting contemporary, modern British food using local ingredients. Create is part of an award winning social enterprise and the menu has been designed by Richard Walton-Allen, former head chef of Harvey Nichols 4th floor and winner of the Oliver Awards best chef of the year 2011. It is a unique restaurant that develops innovative training and create jobs for people who have been homeless, marginalised or vulnerable. It also offers a future to people who want a hand up, not a handout. Every penny it make goes into training opportunities, work experience and jobs that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Create is an innovative restaurant, both in the food it serves and in its vision for the community. The dishes are creative and very well presented, with some unusual flavours that are sometimes surprising. The Cauliflower spelt risotto was a great favourite, as it was exciting and modern but still tasted great. We would recommend this for an alternative restaurant experience and to support Life Changing Food.
This restaurant serves up exciting contemporary, modern British food using local ingredients. Create is part of an award winning social enterprise and the menu has been designed by Richard Walton-Allen, former head chef of Harvey Nichols 4th floor and winner of the Oliver Awards best chef of the year 2011. It is a unique restaurant that develops innovative training and create jobs for people who have been homeless, marginalised or vulnerable. It also offers a future to people who want a hand up, not a handout. Every penny it make goes into training opportunities, work experience and jobs that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Create is an innovative restaurant, both in the food it serves and in its vision for the community. The dishes are creative and very well presented, with some unusual flavours that are sometimes surprising. The Cauliflower spelt risotto was a great favourite, as it was exciting and modern but still tasted great. We would recommend this for an alternative restaurant experience and to support Life Changing Food.
Arts Cafe
February 2012
* * * * *
Arts Cafe, Winner of Best Cafe (& Bar) in the “Oliver Awards” 2010 and 2011, has built up a reputation over the past 18 years for offering exceptionally high quality and interesting modern British cuisine.
This quirky cafe offers a fantastic menu, relaxed and friendly environment and an exceptional standard of cooking. The decor is complemented by regular 6-weekly exhibitions of artwork by local and regional artists on the walls, that are modern and contemporary which is reflected in the menu. The food is a selection of classic dishes with interesting and modern twists that are extremely good value. We would highly recommend this cafe for a relaxed evening and a high quality menu that doesn't break the bank.
This quirky cafe offers a fantastic menu, relaxed and friendly environment and an exceptional standard of cooking. The decor is complemented by regular 6-weekly exhibitions of artwork by local and regional artists on the walls, that are modern and contemporary which is reflected in the menu. The food is a selection of classic dishes with interesting and modern twists that are extremely good value. We would highly recommend this cafe for a relaxed evening and a high quality menu that doesn't break the bank.
Viva Cuba
February 2012
* * *
Viva Cuba is a Cuban/Spanish/South American Tapas bar and restaurant. Winner of Best World Cuisine in the "Oliver Awards" for 2009 & 2011, if offers excellent tapas and authentic Cuban cocktails along with Spanish and South American wines.
When visiting Viva Cuba the overall experience was outstanding. Before being seated at our table, we were taken to one of the bars and had a chance to buy fantastic (both looking and tasting) authentic cocktails. The decor was really welcoming, giving the whole restaurant a South American feel, with good service, music and a excellent Latin atmosphere. We were provided with a vast selection of meat, fish and vegetarian tapas - which was great to share. The Tapas Banquet is a great way to sample the best the restaurant has to offer. We would recommend this restaurant for a fun night out with friends!
When visiting Viva Cuba the overall experience was outstanding. Before being seated at our table, we were taken to one of the bars and had a chance to buy fantastic (both looking and tasting) authentic cocktails. The decor was really welcoming, giving the whole restaurant a South American feel, with good service, music and a excellent Latin atmosphere. We were provided with a vast selection of meat, fish and vegetarian tapas - which was great to share. The Tapas Banquet is a great way to sample the best the restaurant has to offer. We would recommend this restaurant for a fun night out with friends!
Brett's Fish Restaurant
January 2012
* * *
Independent Newspaper voted Bretts as one of the top ten fish and chippys in the UK!
"A favourite with cricket afficionados, Bretts is booked up to a year in advance during Test Matches. "Our fish hits the table within two minutes of being cooked, the chips within one minute," says owner Peter Scott".
This restaurant offers a great pick me up after watching the Rugby or after an afternoon at the pub. Would definitely recommend this quaint restaurant as the food is second to none. Their classy twist on true classic Haddock and Chips is spectacular. A real scrummy restaurant that doesn't break the bank! Brett's Fish bar, the take-away bar, is a great and convenient way to sample the menu without having a full sit down meal, great for hungry students.
"A favourite with cricket afficionados, Bretts is booked up to a year in advance during Test Matches. "Our fish hits the table within two minutes of being cooked, the chips within one minute," says owner Peter Scott".
This restaurant offers a great pick me up after watching the Rugby or after an afternoon at the pub. Would definitely recommend this quaint restaurant as the food is second to none. Their classy twist on true classic Haddock and Chips is spectacular. A real scrummy restaurant that doesn't break the bank! Brett's Fish bar, the take-away bar, is a great and convenient way to sample the menu without having a full sit down meal, great for hungry students.
Salvo's (Christmas Meal)
November 2011
* * * * *
Salvo's has been serving the most authentic Italian food in the UK for 35 years and ....... its in HEADINGLEY! Salvo's has won a number of awards including:
Breaking from our traditional completely sharing meals, Salvo's organised a Tuscan inspired 6-course set meal! Meat/Fish option or Vege option available. All the vegetables are grown in their own allotments and their own animals are reared at Swallow Farm. Gip (head chef) created a set Tuscan-inspired menu for the Society, so we didn't get to sample the regular menu or service. Salvo's kindly gave us a talk about each of the courses, Tuscan food in general and a bit about the success of the restaurant.
- Best Italian in the UK - Gordon Ramsay's F-word TV show (2010)
- AA Rosette
- Restaurant of the Year - Regional Winner 2012 - Good Food Guide
Breaking from our traditional completely sharing meals, Salvo's organised a Tuscan inspired 6-course set meal! Meat/Fish option or Vege option available. All the vegetables are grown in their own allotments and their own animals are reared at Swallow Farm. Gip (head chef) created a set Tuscan-inspired menu for the Society, so we didn't get to sample the regular menu or service. Salvo's kindly gave us a talk about each of the courses, Tuscan food in general and a bit about the success of the restaurant.
BBC Goodfood Show 2011
November 2011
A great day trip to Birmingham, the BBC GoodFood winter show offered fantastic shopping opportunities from the exceptional selection of Farmers produce, entertainment and cooking demonstrations from top celebrity chefs including the Masterchef experience with John Torode and Gregg Wallace. Other chefs include The Hairy Bikers, Gino D'Acampo and James Martin.
The 2012 show includes a new section, with The Great British Bake Off with demos from Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
Take a look at the website for 2012.
The 2012 show includes a new section, with The Great British Bake Off with demos from Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
Take a look at the website for 2012.
Hansa's Gujarati Vegetarian
November 2011
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Hansa's is a multi-award winning Gujarati vegetarian restaurant, which has been run by the family for the past 25 years. Regarding its success, the restaurant has received numerous awards and is constantly featured in the Hardens, Leeds, and Good Food guides. Also, the Independent newspaper listed Hansa's Indian Vegetarian Cookbook as 'NUMBER ONE' of the 10 Best Vegetarian Cookbooks in the bookshops.
This restaurant provides a very special insight to vegetarian cuisine. Again, this restaurant has been highly successful regarding awards, which definitely shows in restaurant atmosphere and the front of house staff are welcoming and friendly. When ordering the "Hansa's surprise" - a selection of the menu which gave you a great overview of what the restaurant is about and sampling the best of vegetarian Gujurat cuisine. Would definitely recommend this restaurant for an intimate sharing experience.
This restaurant provides a very special insight to vegetarian cuisine. Again, this restaurant has been highly successful regarding awards, which definitely shows in restaurant atmosphere and the front of house staff are welcoming and friendly. When ordering the "Hansa's surprise" - a selection of the menu which gave you a great overview of what the restaurant is about and sampling the best of vegetarian Gujurat cuisine. Would definitely recommend this restaurant for an intimate sharing experience.
The Olive Tree
October 2011
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The Olive Tree, a fantastic Greek restaurant which has featured in the Good Food Guide from 2008 - 12! This wonderful restaurant has also received the Oliver Award for Outstanding Contribution to the restaurant industry in 2010.
I would highly recommend this Greek restaurant! Located in the centre of Headingley, this family owned restaurant is great for sharing food and having a wonderful evening. The front of house staff are fantastic and the chef is very talented. The Meze plates are especially good, great to share and a traditional way to enjoy the evening. Their award-winning Taramasalata is definitely worth a try.
I would highly recommend this Greek restaurant! Located in the centre of Headingley, this family owned restaurant is great for sharing food and having a wonderful evening. The front of house staff are fantastic and the chef is very talented. The Meze plates are especially good, great to share and a traditional way to enjoy the evening. Their award-winning Taramasalata is definitely worth a try.
World Curry Festival
September 2011
The World Curry Festival came to Leeds in 2011! There was, of course, plenty of curry in the pop-up restaurant, as well as a world music stage and cooking demonstrations by chefs such as Anjali Pathak (the face of Patak's curries) and Minal Patel, from Prashad, Gordon Ramsay's best Indian restaurant.
Disclaimer:
LUU Food Society is not paid by any restaurant for a positive or negative review. The reviews are strictly for educational purposes only and reflect personal opinions - A good/bad review does not mean that the restaurant is a good/bad restaurant. No responsibility is accepted for any views expressed on this website.
LUU Food Society is not paid by any restaurant for a positive or negative review. The reviews are strictly for educational purposes only and reflect personal opinions - A good/bad review does not mean that the restaurant is a good/bad restaurant. No responsibility is accepted for any views expressed on this website.