The interiors of the iconic space remain largely unchanged, with only aesthetic updates, such as pretty murals, updated soft furnishings and tableware that better reflect the Cinnamon Kitchen brand. The stunning circular statement light still hangs proudly in the centre of the room, and the impressive clock remains a familiar focal point.

I visited on a Friday evening, which happened to be my husband’s birthday, to try a menu that had been specially curated for Diwali. The Diwali Feast menu captured the spirit of the Festival of Light with dishes that were colourful, fragrant and packed with festive flavour, offering a delightful blend of traditional recipes and contemporary touches. It felt like the ideal occasion to enjoy something a little different, and the warm, elegant surroundings of The Queens made the experience feel even more special.

The set menu offered three courses for just £35, which felt like excellent value for a three-course meal in such a stunning setting.

I began with Pathar Ka Gosht – Grilled Lamb Escalope with Coriander Chutney (supplement of £4.50). The lamb was wonderfully tender, and the sweetness of the accompanying chutney perfectly complemented the medley of warming spices on the meat. Of course, the plating was a touch more elegant than you’d typically find at a standard Indian restaurant, giving the dish a refined, celebratory feel.

My husband chose the Double-Cooked Easingwold Pork Belly – ‘Koorg’ Style with Curried Yoghurt. He’s becoming quite the pork belly connoisseur, given he orders it at every opportunity, and this certainly didn’t disappoint.

As with the lamb, the blend of spices on the pork belly was just right, warming without being overpowering, and the curried yoghurt added a welcome creamy note that balanced the dish beautifully.

After a promising start to our first dining experience at Cinnamon Kitchen, it was quickly on to the mains. For me, it was the Lucknowi Chicken Biryani – Nawab Style, Burhani Raita. A generous portion of fluffy rice was packed with tender chunks of marinated chicken, delicately flavoured rather than intensely spicy, and wonderfully comforting.

Having sampled my starter, the birthday boy opted for lamb for his main in the form of the Seared Sykes House Farm Lamb Saddle – Keema Saag, Corn Yoghurt Sauce (supplement of £8). Served medium rare as requested, we both agreed this was the best dish of the evening, combining traditional flavours with a touch of contemporary creative flair.

None of the Indian restaurants in my area serve desserts, so we were both excited to finish our meal with something sweet, while also feeling a little intrigued by the offerings. I couldn’t say no to the Saffron & Pistachio Kulfi, which was absolutely delightful. Rich, creamy and nutty, the kulfi was scattered with a rainbow of sugar sprinkles – visually a perfect nod to Diwali, and it tasted just as good as it looked.

Mr Wilson-Barrett chose the other dessert on offer, Spiced Parkin – House Spices, Ginger & Oatmeal, Banana Ice Cream. Although incredibly dense and a little tricky to eat with a spoon, the flavours were heavenly. I love anything flavoured with ginger, and this had just the right amount, while the banana ice cream took it to a whole new level of indulgent deliciousness.

Cinnamon Kitchen at The Queens Hotel is a restaurant that manages to feel both relaxed and special. From the fragrant, carefully balanced dishes to the welcoming service and elegant surroundings, it’s evident that attention has been paid to every detail. The Diwali menu was, of course, a limited edition and is no longer available. Still, it provided a great insight into the kind of flavours and dishes we can expect from the main menu and future seasonal specials.

The transformation is immediately striking. Gone are the gallery walls of portraits and the mismatched prints of its former vintage maximalist style, which I remember so vividly from my last visit. In their place, the interiors now embrace a glamorous Art Deco aesthetic, with blush pinks, polished woods, black and gold accents, and colourful geometric prints on the walls. An impressive fish tank wall serves as a captivating focal point, balancing opulence with a playful touch.

The atmosphere retains its familiar warmth, with soft lighting and inviting vibes that make the space feel effortlessly welcoming. I visited on a weekday lunchtime to try the new Autumn/Winter menu, and it quickly became clear that this season’s offerings are designed to impress.

Inspired by Cosy Club chef Mayank’s family recipe, passed down through generations in his hometown of Malvan, a coastal town in Maharashtra’s Konkan region in India, the Malvani curries are among the standout dishes on the menu.

My husband opted for the Malvani Chicken Curry (£17.95) – a generous portion of tender chargrilled chicken in a coconut, red onion and tamarind sauce. Rich, indulgent and delightfully warming without too much of a heat kick, it was thoroughly enjoyed alongside the accompanying cumin rice, cooling salad and an optional extra of Cosy Club’s Laffa Bread (£4.45).

My chosen main course, the Pan-Fried Fillet of Sea Bream (£19.95), was everything I hoped it would be. The delicate flavour of the white fish was enhanced rather than overpowered by a fragrant coconut and kaffir lime sauce, the skin crisped to perfection, and the bed of Asian greens on which it was so elegantly perched added a welcome freshness. It was served with sweet white rice and made for a lighter, yet equally warming, alternative to my husband’s chicken curry. We also shared a portion of Truffle & Gran Lavanto Cheese Fries (£5.95), indulgent and crisp, with just the right hit of earthy truffle flavour to complement our mains.

Satisfied, but not too full to resist temptation, we both ordered desserts. I chose this season’s star offering, the Rich Chocolate Delice (£8.95) – a smooth dark chocolate truffle and chocolate sauce atop a crunchy biscuit base, served with creamy vanilla ice cream to balance the chocolate’s intensity. Every mouthful was thoroughly savoured.

My husband opted for the Dark Chocolate Mousse (£5.95), which wasn’t quite as intense as my dessert and therefore far more suited to his palate. It was topped with a sprinkling of honeycomb pieces, adding texture and a touch of extra sweetness.

Cosy Club Leeds’ Autumn/Winter menu shows that the recent transformation is more than just a visual refresh. Between the warm, welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and dishes that balance bold flavours with seasonal comfort, it’s evident that plenty of care has gone into every detail. From the family-inspired Malvani curries to the fragrant fish dishes and indulgent desserts, there is something on the menu to suit every taste, all served in the restaurant’s glamorous yet relaxed new interiors. For more options, see my guide to lunch deals in Leeds.

I’d heard mixed reviews about The Ivy Asia brand. Visitors to other locations spoke highly of the impressive decor, and while some raved about the food, others were less complimentary.

My initial visit was an entirely positive experience. Of course, the brand’s signature agate flooring was a sight to behold, the service was impeccable and the food? Well, I still think about that lamb and aubergine dish to this day.

If you’d like to read about my first visit in 2022, you can read my original review of The Ivy Asia Leeds.

Revisiting The Ivy Asia Leeds: First Impressions and Atmosphere

I revisited The Ivy Asia Leeds a couple of weeks ago, curious to see whether the sense of theatre and luxury remained. From the moment I stepped inside, it was evident the restaurant hadn’t lost that “wow” factor I remembered so vividly. The glowing agate floor, the glimmering gold accents and the bold Asian-inspired artwork still make The Ivy Asia one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Leeds.

With the setting as glamorous as ever, it was time to see whether the food and drink still lived up to expectations.

Starters and Cocktails: Prawn Har Gow, Duck Spring Rolls, and Mango Sling

I began with the Mango Sling (£12.50) – a tropical mix of Ron Santiago de Cuba, coconut liqueur, Midori, pineapple, mango, lemongrass, lemon, and a light coconut espuma. Unlike the more theatrical cocktails I had during my previous visit, this one arrived without smoke or gimmicks, but it didn’t need them. Fruity without being sickly sweet, it was refreshing and well-balanced, with layers of tropical flavour. Proof that cocktails at The Ivy Asia Leeds don’t always need billowing smoke or flamboyant entrances to impress.

To start, I opted for the Prawn Har Gow Dumplings (£11.75). These light, sesame-crusted parcels were filled with juicy, well-seasoned prawns and sprinkled with chives, creating a delightful combination of textures and delicate flavours. My husband, who seems to order them whenever he can, went for the Crispy Duck Spring Rolls (£9.95). Golden and crisp, filled with tender duck, they were simple, familiar, and executed very well, with the accompanying hoisin sauce beautifully balancing the saltiness.

Main Courses: Robata Chicken Satay and Char Siu Pork Belly

For my main, I chose the Robata Chicken Satay (£24.50). This consisted of succulent, marinated chunks of chicken breast, served with a sauce on the side to dip or drizzle as desired ( I’m a dipper!). Chargrilled and infused with coconut, ginger, coriander, and lime, the chicken was tender and smoky, while the sauce was nutty, creamy, and perfectly spiced for my low tolerance to heat. It was indulgent yet balanced, vastly superior to many chicken satays I have tried before, and a satisfying step up from the delicate starters.

My husband, predictably choosing pork belly as usual, went for the Char Siu Barbecue Glazed Pork Belly (£25.50). This was outstanding. Rich and succulent, it melted in the mouth, with a perfect glaze complemented by toasted sesame, a hint of ichimi spice, and a smoky BBQ dressing. Simply put, it was everything you want pork belly to be.

Sides: Kimchi Fried Rice and What We Would Change

We didn’t choose our sides particularly well, not that there was anything wrong with them; we just underestimated the portion sizes. We went for two portions of the Kimchi Fried Rice (£7.50), which was delicious, packed with flavour, and not greasy in the slightest. In hindsight, one portion would have been more than enough. I think a better choice would have been one portion of the fried rice alongside some Wok-Fried Greens or Roasted Aubergine to balance things out.

Desserts: The Golden Dragon Sharing Selection

The dessert was the highlight of our experience. We had already enjoyed both our starters and mains, but we were not prepared for the sensational sharing dessert that arrived immaculately presented, complete with a touch of theatre from dry ice.

The dessert was the highlight of our meal. We went for the Golden Dragon (£38.00, V), a sharing selection that was as impressive as it was delicious. There was the Mini Samurai, a rich chocolate mousse-like dessert with a crunchy chocolate soil that gave Oreo vibes, and Passion Fruit Doughnuts with yoghurt dipping sauce, crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle. Coconut Sorbet came in a half coconut shell, adding a refreshing tropical note, and the Crème Brûlée had a perfectly torched sugar crust that cracked to reveal silky, creamy vanilla goodness. The huge serving of soft serve ice cream, drizzled with mango sauce, was ridiculously moreish. There was fresh pineapple and raspberries on the side, and the mochi were lovely, soft, chewy, and a fun textural contrast. Every element was beautifully presented and bursting with flavour, making it a truly sensational way to end the meal.

Final Verdict: Is The Ivy Asia Leeds Still Worth a Visit?

Revisiting The Ivy Asia Leeds in 2025, it’s clear that the restaurant has retained all the flair, luxury, and attention to detail that made my first visit so memorable. From the buzzing, stylish atmosphere to the attentive service and, of course, the incredible food, it feels just as special as it did back in 2022. The starters and mains were delicious, the sides generous, and the desserts were an absolute showstopper, the kind of experience that leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even left the table.

If you’re looking for a special occasion restaurant in Leeds or simply want to enjoy an indulgent meal with friends or family, The Ivy Asia Leeds is still very much worth it. Book a table and see for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

Conveniently located just a stone’s throw from Ilkley Railway Station, Piccolino Ilkley enjoys a solid 4-star rating on TripAdvisor. Most recent reviews highlight glowing praise for both the food and service, with few falling below four stars—setting my expectations accordingly high.

My husband and I reserved a table for a Saturday lunch, and despite it being mid-October, we were greeted by a glorious sunny day on the restaurant’s newly reopened roof terrace. Unsurprisingly for a Saturday afternoon, the stylish rooftop space, complete with vibrant yellow booths and chic floral displays, offered a lovely backdrop for our dining experience.

Being familiar with two of Individual Restaurants’ other offerings—Restaurant Bar & Grill, where I dined last year, and Riva Blu just a few months ago—I was eager to see how Piccolino measured up.

Since it was lunchtime and we both had our sights set on heartier main courses, my husband and I decided to skip the antipasti this time around, thinking that three courses might be a bit too much. However, the temptation to start with something lighter was hard to ignore. The menu featured mouthwatering options like arancini and three different varieties of bruschetta, making it difficult to resist. I was particularly drawn to the new Bruschetta con Funghi, which boasts baked mushrooms, spinach, basil pesto, Asiago cheese, and truffle—definitely a dish I would have loved to try!

Mr Wilson-Barrett opted for one of the highlight dishes on the 25th Anniversary menu – one which had caught my eye before arriving but wasn’t suitable due to my tomato intolerance. Lasagne al Wagyu Tartufo is a dish that can only be described as a true showstopper. This is no ordinary lasagne; with an astonishing 25 layers, it takes indulgence to a whole new level. Each delicate layer is meticulously built, with tender, slow-cooked wagyu beef at the heart of it all, paired beautifully with just the right touch of fragrant truffle.

The béchamel sauce was served separately, with our waiter pouring it over the lasagne at the table, allowing my husband to decide just how much he wanted. Naturally, a generous helping of parmesan was also offered, and my husband didn’t hesitate to take advantage of that as well. According to Mr Wilson-Barrett, the richness of the sauces, combined with the tender layers of wagyu, made for a satisfying and memorable dish without feeling overwhelming.

To accompany his lasagne, my husband ordered a side of fries, ideal for soaking up those rich sauces. I can personally vouch for how good they were—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy in the middle. The option to enhance them with truffle and parmesan made them even more indulgent, and of course, my husband couldn’t resist.

I opted for the Ravioli di Granchio, which immediately stood out to me as a winner when I first browsed Piccolino’s menu. It certainly lived up to expectations. In fact, I can honestly say it’s one of the most flavourful pasta dishes I’ve had in quite some time. The egg pasta was cooked to a perfect al dente, filled with rich Devonshire crab, and smothered in a luxurious lobster sauce. A scattering of red chillies added just the right amount of heat, while juicy North Atlantic prawns gave the dish a fresh, satisfying bite. It was pure perfection! After the first few mouthfuls, I deliberately slowed down, wanting to prolong the experience.

I’d asked for a generous sprinkle of parmesan, but in hindsight, it wasn’t necessary—the flavours were already robust and beautifully balanced, needing no extra enhancement.

To complement my main, I also ordered a Caesar Salad, which, like the ravioli, was absolutely spot on in terms of freshness, flavour, and texture. The crisp lettuce and well-balanced dressing made it the perfect side, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich lobster sauce of the pasta. Together, the two dishes made for a thoroughly satisfying meal.

Both of us thoroughly enjoyed our chosen main courses and were keen to extend our Piccolino experience by selecting desserts from the 25th Anniversary specials. My husband opted for one of the standout dishes, and it was truly a showstopper! The limited-edition Piccolino Rocher is a stunning choux bun, decadently covered in chocolate and filled with Nutella, hazelnut crème, and whole hazelnuts. Its presentation in shimmering silver foil added an extra touch of elegance. If you’re a fan of the well-known chocolate it’s inspired by, I can’t recommend this dessert highly enough—make sure to try it while it’s still available!

While my chosen dessert may not have been as visually striking, it certainly excelled in taste! Uncharacteristically, I decided to go for a chocolate-based option. My generous slice of chocolate and hazelnut torte was a delight, boasting an array of excellent textures and wonderfully rich chocolate flavours. It was the perfect way to round off an indulgent lunch!

As we wrapped up our meal, it was clear that Piccolino had delivered an exceptional dining experience, effortlessly blending tradition with a modern twist. Their commitment to quality and flavour was evident in every dish, and it’s easy to see why they’ve built such a loyal following over the past 25 years.

To celebrate this milestone, Piccolino has a special treat for guests born or married in 1999. If that’s you, why not swing by for lunch or dinner to mark your 25th birthday or Silver Wedding Anniversary? You’ll be greeted with a complimentary bottle of prosecco to add a bit of sparkle to your celebration—what a lovely touch!

And for those in Club IR, the special 25th-anniversary menu features two courses and a drink for just £25. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can add a glass of Moët & Chandon for just £5 more—sounds like a perfect way to treat yourself!

Overall, our visit to Piccolino was a delightful experience, celebrating not just their anniversary but also the simple joys of good food. I can’t wait to return and try more of their menu!

In recent years, Banyan has become one of Leeds’ top destinations for bottomless brunch. Earlier this year, my husband and I visited for a daytime date, enjoying a choice of hot mains and two hours of unlimited drinks for a set price. The service was excellent, with attentive staff keeping the drinks flowing, and we both thoroughly enjoyed our chosen dishes.

Banyan unveiled some exciting new additions to its menu last month, so we returned last week as a family of three. Alongside the venue’s mouth-watering selection of small plates and mains, there are four delectable dishes designed to be shared. In keeping with Banyan’s main menu, which features both British classics and dishes inspired by global cuisines, the sharing options include: Tacos Your Way (£29.95), Pan-Asian Chicken Trio (£29.95), Crispy Duck Pancakes (£22.95), and the Signature Sharing Steak (£48.95).

Having loved the Bang Bang Chicken from our bottomless brunch, we decided to try the Pan-Asian Chicken Trio, served with egg-fried rice and prawn crackers, on our return visit. The bite-sized pieces of crispy chicken, smothered in a creamy and moderately spicy peanut sauce, were just as good as I remembered, with plenty to go around.

The Sticky Karaage Chicken was equally delicious. Though similar in texture with its crunchy coating, the Korean-style fried chicken pieces were larger and coated in a much sweeter sauce boasting gorgeous smoky undertones and a warming hit of chilli.

The final component of our trio was the Thai Marinated Chicken. Although it wasn’t our favourite of the three, the chicken was beautifully succulent, and there was plenty of the aromatic marinade to scoop up with the accompanying prawn crackers.

For our second sharing dish, we chose the Crispy Duck Pancakes – a favourite of mine and my husband’s when we order from Chinese restaurants on date nights, though our son had yet to try it. The platter included all the usual components: shredded duck, pancakes, spring onions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce, along with a portion of chilli jam and an extra bowl of prawn crackers. While the duck wasn’t particularly crispy and could have been served hotter, it was well-seasoned, and our son couldn’t get enough of it. The platter had enough ingredients to make eight pancakes, more than sufficient for two to share when ordered alone.

To complement the new sharers, Banyan has also introduced a few sharing cocktails, including the rum-based Pacific Punch, which was our choice on this occasion. Priced at £34, it’s served in a Florence flask holding enough for four servings. This tropical concoction, featuring rum, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice, is enhanced with hints of coconut, kaffir lime, and lemongrass, making it an excellent match for the Pan-Asian Chicken Trio.

We were very much torn between this one and the Amalfi Coast Sbagliato (£46), which is served in a glass teapot and combines Bombay Sapphire gin, Aperol, limoncello, lime sherbet, and prosecco – quite the showstopper! However, as we tend to stick to a two-drink limit when dining out with our son, particularly when cocktails are involved, we’ll save that delightful option for next time!

It’s one of the top hospitality destinations in my area. Despite only being a short drive from my home, I’m ashamed to say that I’d only ever visited on one occasion before this month. It was a fleeting visit as I went over to sample the quirky, Asian-inspired afternoon tea at the small restaurant adjacent to the Nadarra Spa.

I’ve been hearing good things about The Coniston’s main restaurant for the past year so have been eager to visit for some time.

Aptly named The View, it features floor-to-ceiling windows which run the length of one side of the restaurant and look out over the estate’s lake. The kitchen is headed by Thomas Robertson – a chef passionate about local produce who boasts 18 years of experience, including some time at a Michelin-star restaurant in London.

As part of my 40th birthday celebrations, my husband and I headed over on Thursday 12th July to enjoy a three-course lunch. The recently unveiled summer menu features British classics such as traditional Bangers & Mash alongside a medley of creative mains celebrating seasonal produce from the region.

I began with the Crab Salad starter (£13.95) comprising white crab meat on a slice of toasted brioche. Delicately seasoned and garnished only with seaweed, the flavour of the crab shone through and the combination of textures was perfect.

My husband opted for the Braised Pork Belly (£12.00). It’s his favourite cut of meat and he’s ordered from countless menus as a main course but never a starter. Braised until tender, it was beautifully complemented by fresh fennel, apple, salsa, pickled carrot and shaved cabbage.

For the main, I ordered Pan Fried Chicken (£22.95), served with a warm potato salad and an array of raw vegetables in a citrus vinaigrette. The chicken, which was succulent and not over seasoned was indeed tasty but the potato salad was the real star here. Creamy, and indulgent with just a hint of mustard it paired beautifully with the zesty vegetables.

The Fish & Chips main course (£19.00) Mr Wilson-Barrett ordered was equally delicious. The rather large fillet of succulent and flaky haddock was encased in a delightfully crisp Hetton Dark Horse beer batter and, the accompanying chips were perfect with their crunchy exterior and fluffy centre. This was characteristically consumed at the speed of light!

The dessert options on the new summer menu at The View are difficult to choose between. The Raspberry Parfait with caramelised white chocolate, blackberry and elderflower would be a gorgeous way to finish your meal on a warm summer’s day, as would the deconstructed Trifle with elements of citrus and a white chocolate and cherry sponge.

Being my birthday, however, I wanted something ridiculously naughty and the Chocolate Brownie ticked all the right boxes. I’m not ashamed to say that I’ve eaten more than my fair share of brownies but few have been as rich and gooey as the one I ate at The View. The portion was huge and, when broken into, the centre oozed out like lava. Simply divine!

Mr Wilson-Barrett chose the Sticky Toffee Pudding. The salted caramel sauce was delicious and there was plenty of it! The sponge, although light and full of flavour, didn’t seem to contain dates, much to my husband’s delight! I, however, prefer them to be present in a Sticky Toffee Pudding but the dessert was delicious nonetheless.

The service we received throughout was entirely faultless with reasonable waiting times and staff always available when needed. To top it off, our lovely waitress presented us with a plate of Petit Fours with a hand-piped birthday message. They’d also given us a ballon for our table upon arrival and both gestures made our meal feel that little bit more special.

I’m disappointed in myself for not dining at The View before because the setting, food and service are all excellent. I will certainly be back!

During our visit, we ordered from The View’s main menu but there’s also a fantastic set menu for this season that enables you to enjoy two courses for £25 or three for £30. Available Monday to Saturday, the brilliant Fish & Chips main is an option, as are the delicious Chocolate Brownie and Sticky Toffee Pudding desserts!

Part of Individual Restaurant Group, Riva Blu has four restaurants across the UK in Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Manchester, with a fifth venue opening in Hull soon. I was kindly invited to the Leeds restaurant to try some new offerings and headed over with my husband last week.

This wasn’t my first visit to Riva Blu, Leeds. My husband and I enjoyed a meal at the city centre restaurant last year – an overall positive experience. However, I did feel my choices were somewhat limited.

This time, my grossly inconvenient tomato intolerance didn’t restrict me to just one or two options, as it often, and understandably, does at Italian restaurants.

The antipasti section of the menu is excellent this season, with traditional options like Bruschetta Classica and Carpaccio listed alongside new seasonal delights such as Panzerote Formaggio – potato and parmesan croquette with Pecorino Romano and garlic aioli.

My husband chose the Buratta in Cestino – Apulian mozzarella with fried aubergine, tomato salsa, and basil pesto, served in a garlic pizza dough bowl. It was an unexpected choice considering Mr Wilson-Barrett isn’t as much of a cheese lover as I am, but he thoroughly enjoyed the combination of flavours and said everything tasted remarkably fresh.

I was tempted to order the Arancini as I remembered it being utterly delicious last year, but instead, I opted for the brand new Frittatina Carbonara. I’ve been making a conscious effort to limit my carb intake recently, so although eager to devour some pasta after weeks without it, I expected to find it a little heavy.

I was pleasantly surprised when I cut into the crisp breadcrumb coating and revealed a combination of silky sauce, generous chunks of guanciale, and just the right amount of pasta. Considerably different from the stodge I’d anticipated. It ticked every box regarding flavour and texture. Beautiful!

For his main, Mr Wilson-Barrett ordered one of Riva Blu’s new Neapolitan ‘Biacata’ sandwiches from the Street Food menu. These new lunchtime offerings comprise the restaurant’s biga dough, which is folded then stuffed with classic fillings and baked in the oven.

Of the eight tasty-sounding options, the ‘Porchetta’ appealed to him the most – roasted pork belly, cooked ham, smoked provola, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, and burrata cream. They were super generous with the fillings, so the ratio of meat and cheese to pizza dough was excellent. These are served with fries too, so you get plenty for your money!

I wanted something much lighter for my main course, so I opted for the Sea Bass, which has to be one of the tastiest fish dishes I’ve had for some time. Both fillets had been pan-fried to perfection, so that the skin possessed the optimal crispness, and the accompanying courgette puree complemented them beautifully.

I requested a side of garlic & rosemary roast potatoes to enjoy alongside, but as lovely as they were, I didn’t need them as my main also featured a handful of courgette crisps, which provided the crunchy texture I desired. A simple yet stunning dish, perfect for summer!

Dessert was our favourite course the last time we visited, so we had high expectations on this occasion. Mr Wilson-Barrett chose one of Riva Blu’s classics – Tortino al Cioccolato. The chocolate fondant was wonderfully rich, although the centre wasn’t quite as gooey as he would have liked. Delicious nonetheless.

Alongside the classic Tiramisu, they’ve introduced a pistachio version which, if last summer’s lemon version is anything to go by, will most likely taste divine! There’s also a Panna Cotta with fresh strawberries, perfect for the summer. I had high expectations for my final course but decision-making isn’t my strong point.

I asked our lovely waitress for her recommendation and ordered the new Semifreddo. This was an absolute pleasure to consume, and every spoonful was savoured! The chocolate and amaretto iced parfait was accompanied by crunchy morsels of hazelnut brittle, and the Amarena cherries prevented the dish from being too sweet.

Final Thoughts

Riva Blu’s summer menu truly encapsulates the essence of Southern Italian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of traditional and innovative dishes. The quality of the ingredients and the care taken in preparation are evident in every bite. Whether you have dietary restrictions (coeliacs are particularly well catered for!) or simply want to indulge in a variety of Italian delights, Riva Blu provides a memorable dining experience. We left the restaurant feeling thoroughly satisfied and excited for our next visit. If you find yourself near one of their locations, especially the soon-to-open Hull branch, I highly recommend stopping by to enjoy a taste of Italy this summer.

Last week, I dined at Tattu in Leeds for the first time. The influencer favourite has been on my list of Leeds restaurants to try for a while, as it’s a dining spot which appears frequently on my Instagram feed. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner and Tattu’s Lunar New Year celebrations in full swing, it was the perfect time to experience the delights and charms of this highly-rated dining destination.

Of course, I expected to be wowed by the decor at Tattu Leeds. The contemporary Chinese restaurant is well-known for its breathtaking interiors, cherry blossom trees and seasonally changing decorative displays that provide the perfect backdrops for mid-meal selfies.

As regards the food, I heard mixed reviews before my visit. Some I spoke to said the food was outstanding and assured me I’d be blown away by delectable dim sum and sensational small plates. Others warned it’s all style and no substance, with the focus being on the theatrical presentation of dishes rather than the flavour.

We visited on Thursday evening and were seated at a table in the centre of the restaurant, perfectly placed beneath the blooms of the cherry blossom tree. When it comes to creating a romantic ambience, Tattu has nailed it. It’s aesthetically perfect and the soft lighting and reasonably spaced out tables make it ideal for an intimate date night. Had my husband and I been there for a pre-Valentine’s meal rather than a media visit, we would undoubtedly have fully immersed ourselves in a fairytale evening for which Tattu has so expertly set the scene.

An exceptionally knowledgeable staff member, David, looked after us for the duration of the evening; explaining the ordering process, guiding us through the creative menu, offering recommendations and ensuring our glasses were never empty. With the menu being rather extensive and pretty much everything sounding mouthwateringly delicious, his assistance and expertise were much appreciated.

My Dining Experience at Tattu Leeds…

Cocktails and Wine

My husband and I are rather partial to a cocktail or two and Tattu boasts some superb offerings. David took the time to ask us about our usual taste preferences and pointed out the ones that would be the most pleasing on our individual and rather different palates. My husband ordered Tattu’s signature Skull Candy (£14.50). Their most popular cocktail since opening in 2015, this sweeter-than-sweet favourite comprises Crystal Head Vodka and homemade bubblegum syrup.

Preferring fruitier numbers with subtle floral notes, I ordered the recommended Dragon’s Breath (£15.50) which is a new addition to the menu, launched specifically for the Lunar New Year. Pairing Bobby’s Gin and ODD Hibiscus with lemongrass and pomegranate, Tattu has created something special here.

When it comes to wine, my husband and I are worlds apart. I would normally choose a full-bodied, spicy red whereas Mr Wilson-Barrett prefers a sweet and fruity rosé. David recommended a bottle of Calafuria (£47). This fresh and floral rosé is made from the Negroamaro grape variety, normally used to create reds and was the perfect compromise.

Dim Sum

At Tattu, you order several dishes at once and as they differ considerably in cooking times, they arrive in no particular order. Our first wave of food consisted of two individually chosen dim sum.

I’m a lover of seafood whereas Mr Wilson-Barrett cannot abide it. Eager to sample Tattu’s creative version of a takeaway favourite, I ordered the Lobster and Prawn French Toast (£14.60).

Vastly different to the heavy, deep-fried triangles drenched with Sweet & Sour sauce I’m used to, these delectable spheres of sweet and juicy lobster and prawn meat, encased in a sesame seed crust were utterly delightful. The fried bread element was present but just enough to provide that familiar texture and allow the other flavours to take centre stage.

My husband chose the Aromatic Duck Spring Rolls (£12.50). Packed with a flavoursome filling and served with a slightly tart Cherry Hoisin sauce, they were thoroughly enjoyed.

Crispy Duck Pancakes

Our second wave of deliciousness arrived only moments after our first plates had been cleared and was a sight to behold! The 1/2 Aromatic Crispy Duck Pancakes (£33.60) small (ish!) plate was a platter of perfection with its array of colours and textures. This is by far one of Tattu’s most popular dishes and rightly so.

The skin on the succulent duck breasts was gloriously crisp and when encased in the paper-thin pancakes with the accompanying cucumber, spring onion and scattering of crispy shallots, it was a heavenly eating experience. I was relieved somewhat to find we’d been given an equal number of pancakes as had there been one left over, we would surely have fought over it.

This wave of food also included what was possibly my favourite dish of the night – the Red Belly Pork (£15.30). Belly is my husband’s favourite cut of pork and I cook this for him regularly at home. I am now utterly appalled by my culinary efforts as these melt-in-the-mouth morsels were incredible. Smothered in a spicy, savoury sauce and topped with smoked crackling, they were consumed at the speed of light. Sensational!

Beef Fillet and Fried Rice

Choosing just one other small plate felt like an insurmountable task when we were initially looking through the menu. Despite my husband’s dislike for seafood, there were still a significant number of dishes that tempted us equally. If the duck pancakes were anything to go by, the Glazed Beef Bao Buns (£21.60) would probably be outstanding and although the priciest by a mile, the Japanese Black Wagyu (£68.30) with enoki mushroom sounded divine.

After much deliberation, we decided to order another meaty masterpiece – the Caramel Soy Aged Beef Fillet (£40.90) plus a side of Duck Egg and Chinese Sausage Fried Rice (£7.40)

The beef fillet was cooked medium as requested and well rested. For a 7oz fillet, we seemed to have quite a substantial number of slices and each was beautifully juicy and flavoursome. The accompanying caramel soy sauce elevated this premium dish even further and I would not hesitate to order it again. We ordered similar at another high-end Chinese restaurant in Leeds a while back and whilst that one was good, Tattu’s version surpassed all expectations.

The rice was full of flavour and the little chunks of Chinese sausage scattered throughout made it all the more enjoyable. It was a tad on the greasy side but not enough to make it unpleasant. At this point, we were getting rather full so we didn’t quite manage to finish the rice, however, it did make a great accompaniment to that beautiful beef.

Decadent Desserts

There aren’t a huge number of desserts to choose from at Tattu but the offerings are always nicely varied so there’s something to suit most palates. As our cocktails had arrived theatrically with billowing smoke and subsequent oohs and aahs, I anticipated reel-worthy desserts also. I was not disappointed.

My pretty Cherry Blossom (£12.90) sweet course arrived similarly. Such dishes, however, are often a letdown when it comes to taste. I was pleased to discover that this creative dessert was as good as it looked. The dark chocolate branches of the miniature cherry tree were as tasty as the biscuity pink soil and fruit mousse it was rooted in. The candyfloss blooms added an element of sweetness and the slightly tart cherry sorbet balanced out the dish.

Mr Wilson-Barrett opted for the rather indulgent-sounding The Year of Dragon (£13.90) which although didn’t offer the theatrical element that my dessert did, was just as aesthetically pleasing, being served in a beautifully-decorated white chocolate glass and topped with a floral decoration. We expected the combination of cashew butter fudge, honeycomb and marshmallow to result in a rather rich and sickly dessert but it was surprisingly light and ever so moreish!

Lunar New Year

A spectacular Lunar New Year offering was launched across all five Tattu restaurants on February 9th and will conclude on Saturday 24th February with a Lantern Festival.

A beautiful series of dishes has been created, symbolising good luck, strength and health. These limited edition delights include the Peking Duck Money Bag with hints of orange and chilli and the delicious The Year of Dragon dessert which we tried during our visit.

The closing evening of this two-week-long event promises to be a memorable evening with Lion dancers and DJs weaving through the restaurant. Fancy an unforgettable dining experience at one of Leeds’ most Instagrammable restaurants? Visit the Tattu website to book a table!

This review was published following the receipt of a media invitation to dine at Tattu, Leeds. Invitations to dine do not guarantee a written review on our website and the restaurants we visit have no editorial control over our content. To discuss advertising opportunities, please email business@theyorkshirepress.co.uk

My first visit to Dakota Grill in Leeds was during the spring of this year. The memorable date night with my husband was spent sipping fruity cocktails and indulging in succulent steaks and parmesan fries whilst twinkling fairy lights provided a romantic ambience. It was a joyous experience from beginning to end; the professionalism of all the staff we encountered and the exceptional quality of the food left a lasting impression.

When the opportunity arose to return to Dakota Grill and sample dishes from their new Autumn menu, I didn’t hesitate to say yes and booked a table for last Friday evening.

Rather than being seated outside on the cosy terrace area of the luxury city-centre hotel, this time we were led down the stairs and into the atmospheric basement brasserie.

Dark and moody decor with accents of shimmering gold is synonymous with the Dakota brand, and it instantly sets the tone for an evening of decadence.

Unlike during our previous visit, when we spent a significant amount of time deliberating over Dakota Grill’s meticulously thought-out menu, we were on this occasion treated to eight courses, chosen and prepared for us by the venue’s talented head chef.

As is often the case when dining at Dakota Grill, our culinary adventure began with a crusty wholemeal loaf, served warm and with a tomato and goat cheese dip for Mr Wilson-Barrett and an oil and balsamic one for myself. The bread at Dakota Grill is delicious so it’s easy to overindulge, drastically limiting the amount you can consume of the following courses. I managed to restrain myself and eat a couple of slices only. Just as well, considering over the next couple of hours, we would be eating no fewer than three starters, three main courses and two desserts

Indecisive by nature, I was thrilled at the thought of being able to sample most of the dishes that had already caught my eye whilst perusing the recently launched menu on Dakota’s website the evening prior. On the other hand, my husband was visibly nervous due to having far more dislikes and preferences than I possess myself.

I made the kitchen aware of my tomato allergy upon our arrival. Still, I made no mention of Mr Wilson-Barrett’s hatred for seafood and any fish that isn’t heavily battered and served alongside a portion of chips.

Lo and behold, and much to my delight, our first dish of the evening was the Pan-Seared Scallops starter. I will almost always order a seafood starter when we dine out and scallops are one of my all-time favourite ways to begin a meal.

Seeing my husband slice effortlessly into the remarkably plump disc of deliciousness and eat probably the first seafood he has eaten since we met 12 years ago, was utterly delightful!

He polished off the lot without a grimace and agreed that scallops are indeed sweet and succulent treasures from the sea rather than just being slimy and overpoweringly ‘fishy’. The ones we had been served were also particularly fine examples and were seated upon a bed of velvety parsnip puree which complemented them beautifully.

Our next course was Dakota Grill’s new Herb Gnudi starter and it was simply divine! Fluffy potato dumplings were enveloped in a rich and silky spinach sauce which was also scattered with slithers of smoked pancetta and crunchy walnuts. The whole dish was then generously topped with grated parmesan. It was my husband’s favourite dish of the evening and definitely one I’d love to try and recreate at home. Warming and comforting, it’s perfect for this time of year.

The third and final starter was a duo of Spiced Monkfish Pakoras with a syrupy mango chutney and a sprinkling of crispy wild rice. The batter was golden and bubbly and delivered a lovely hit of spice without stealing the limelight from the meaty and flavoursome chunks of monkfish it encased. A beautiful and surprisingly light starter that we both thoroughly enjoyed.

Following a much-welcomed pause between starters and main courses, we were presented with the next dish – Corn-Fed Chicken with Artichoke, Baby Leek and Parma Ham Dauphinoise. By this time I was beginning to feel quite full and had told myself to eat only a few mouthfuls of the next few courses. I fell at the first hurdle as this chicken dish was sublime! The chicken breast was remarkably succulent and a delight to eat on its own but the accompanying slithers of potato and salty parma ham in the creamiest of sauces made the dish rather difficult to stop eating.

Next up, was another fish dish. I’d assured my husband prior to eating the scallop starter that he would be pleasantly surprised and did not need to approach it like it was a bushtucker trial. For this course, however, we were served Stone Bass and it’s a fish I had yet to try myself so couldn’t tell him what to expect. Mr Wilson-Barrett tucked straight in and immediately declared it wasn’t to his liking. It was a tad too ‘fishy’ for him which is entirely fair considering he doesn’t really like fish at all. I, on the other hand, thought it was delicious and actually quite subtle in flavour. The skin was wonderfully crispy too so the textures were nicely balanced.

Our last main course was the one which I would have ordered had we visited for a standard three-course meal. I have fond memories of the steaks at Dakota Grill being juicy and packed with flavour so had high expectations for the Grilled Beef Sirloin with Charred Shallot and Chimichurri. It did not disappoint – the meat was served pink as we requested and seasoned to perfection.

After six incredible savoury dishes, it was time to sample a couple of Dakota’s sweeter offerings. The last time we visited, we found ourselves unexpectedly needing to rush back to Skipton following our main courses so we didn’t get the chance to try desserts. Despite being quite uncomfortably full, we were keen to try a couple on this occasion.

The first dessert was a Sticky Toffee Pudding served with vanilla ice-cream and a bourbon butterscotch sauce. Although one of my favourite desserts, especially on a cold autumn evening, I often find this traditional sponge dessert to be a tad heavy so would normally order one to share between two. This was like no other Sticky Toffee Pudding I have tried before. Instead of a dense sponge laden with dates and drenched in a thick toffee sauce, it was as light as a feather and nowhere near as sickly sweet.

Our second dessert and final course of the evening was a Milk Chocolate Tart – a buttery pasty case filled with an indulgent but not-to-rich ganache and then topped with blackberries. A delicious way to finish what was by far one of our most enjoyable dining experiences of the year!

If you are planning your next romantic date night or looking for somewhere to celebrate a special occasion with loved ones, I highly recommend booking a table at Dakota Grill. The food, of course, was exquisite but the service was also exceptional for the duration of our evening.

This restaurant review was published following a media invitation from Dakota Hotels. An invitation to dine does not guarantee a published review and the brands we work with have no editorial control. Should you wish to discuss advertising options, please email business@theyorkshirepress.co.uk.

I’ve been eating and reviewing afternoon teas in Yorkshire for several years and, being located in Skipton, have enjoyed many of the traditional offerings in and around The Dales. Last week, however, I had the pleasure of sampling one far different from any I have tried previously.

The Coniston Hotel is nestled in a 1,400-acre country estate. Boasting an award-winning restaurant, a luxury spa, elegant interiors and breathtaking views of the beautiful estate grounds and surrounding countryside, it’s the perfect place to stay for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil break in the glorious Yorkshire Dales.

As one would expect, this typically English country hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea served on delicate china and featuring all the expected components. Well executed and served in the hotel’s 1 AA Rosette restaurant, The View, it’s one of the best afternoon teas in the Yorkshire Dales. However, The Coniston Hotel also offers a rather exciting and more contemporary option in the form of its Bento Box Afternoon Tea. This Asian-inspired alternative to a traditional afternoon tea is served in The Coniston Hotel’s Blossom Kitchen; a small yet vibrant restaurant at its onsite luxury spa.

Over the past few years, Japanese cuisine has seen a surge in popularity. Sushi, katsu and miso are now easily obtainable in major supermarkets and are quickly becoming part of our everyday cuisine rather than flavours only occasionally enjoyed at Japanese restaurants on high streets. My appetite for the flavours of Japanese cuisine is also rapidly increasing so I jumped at the chance to sample an afternoon tea that promised a “twist on tradition” and “outstanding Yorkshire ingredients with Asian flair”.

My questionable sense of direction resulted in my mother and I experiencing an unplanned exploration of the hotel grounds during a typically British downpour so, we arrived at Blossom Kitchen in dire need of shelter and refreshments.

The glass of bubbly we were presented with upon arrival was precisely the welcome we needed and we didn’t have to wait long for steaming teapots of our chosen Birchall Tea – Lemongrass and Ginger.

Now, I haven’t been a tea drinker since I developed a taste (and need) for coffee during my university days and even before then, I only ever drank the occasional cup of peppermint tea. This aromatic and warming tea was delightful and I scoured the supermarket afterwards to find a similar version until I could source some online.

Our food also arrived rather promptly and was beautifully presented in a traditional bento box. These lacquered wooden boxes have been part of Japanese culture since the 16th Century. Originally, they were used to pack lunches but over the centuries, the Japanese began using the distinct food serving and storing boxes for travel, theatre visits and entertaining.

Typically, a bento box will contain a complete balanced meal, with different components such as rice, vegetables and fish, each having its own compartment. On this occasion, however, the traditional bento boxes showcased various elements of a creatively put-together afternoon tea.

Our selection of savouries included Chicken and Sesame Skewers which were tender and very delicately flavoured. Normally, these are accompanied by homemade kimchi but my tomato intolerance meant mine was substituted for a delious array of mushrooms in soy and spring onion.

There was also a miniature Spring Roll which my mother enjoyed so much I reluctantly gave her mine to eat once I’d had merely a nibble. For me, the standout savoury was the Szechuan & Gin Cured Salmon Bao Bun as the superb salmon delivered some seriously exquisite flavours and the bun itself was perfectly fluffy. Possibly my favourite element of the whole experience!

As regards sweet treats, we discovered four in our bento boxes. In keeping with British afternoon tea tradition, we each had a freshly baked scone with jam and a rather generous amount of cream.

The scone is the key component of an afternoon tea but they vary so much in size, flavour and quality. Served warm and clearly homemade, these were utterly delicious. We also had a macaron each – salted caramel for myself and a lemon version for my mother. Again, these were faultless and we both enjoyed them immensely.

In addition to these rather traditional components, we also had miniature cakes each and it was in these sweet treats, where the Japanese flavours could be found. Both the Matcha Blondie and the Lemongrass Lychee & Poppy Seed Drizzle Cake were light in texture and beautiful in flavour, albeit a tad dry by the time we got around to eating them.

Overall, we both enjoyed our Bentos Box Afternoon Tea at The Coniston Hotel. The presence of the scones, macarons and smoked salmon meant our favourite parts of a traditional afternoon tea could still be enjoyed alongside the more alternative components. Although, personally, I would have liked to have seen some sushi in my bento box but not if it meant sacrificing the delicious Bao Bun because that was divine!

This was certainly, a positive experience and one that was made all the more enjoyable by our ever-so polite and attentive waitress, Irene. I just wish we’d had better weather so we could have dined al fresco and enjoyed the spectacular scenery. Perhaps, I’ll head back when the sun reappears and sample their traditional version too!

This review was published after an invitation to dine at The Coniston Hotel. As we only share positive experiences, an invitation to dine does not guarantee an article published on our website. The businesses we visit have no editorial control over our content.