Is it too early to be talking about Christmas? It might only be October but the Festive season seems to be creeping upon us already. On Wednesday, Stefan and I went across to Leeds to the Dakota Deluxe to taste their new Festive menu which will be launching on the 23rd November until Christmas Eve. The Dakota Deluxe which is located on Russell Street in Leeds City Centre is an absolutely stunning hotel. We’ve stayed here earlier in the year and the rooms are to die for, the whole decor is just beautiful.
Given that the weather was in the mid twenties, it seemed very strange to be getting into the Christmas spirit. However, after looking at the Festive menu, I was very excited for all of the food. After a champagne reception in the cocktail bar, we made our way downstairs to the Bar & Grill area. I’m not going to lie, I got a little bit excited at the crackers at our tables. Christmas is coming guys!
To start things off, we had a little appetiser sharer of the tastiest crunchy bread servers with a tomato and goats cheese dip. The sauce was absolutely delicious, I wish we had more but we did have three courses ahead of us. For starter, I went for the Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup which was a little bit too sweet for me but I guess there’s a clue in the name. Served with even more crusty bread, it still was pretty damn good. Stefan went for the Smoked Salmon Blini which was presented lovely. Everyone was commenting on how incredible this starter was.
It wouldn’t be a Christmas Menu without Turkey on the menu. Stefan got the Ballotine of Yorkshire Turkey served with chestnut & apricot stuffing and of course, a pig in blanket. Which I may have pinched half of. I went for the Slow Cooked Beef Shoulder which was served in the most delicious rich glaze. My beef was so tender and just melted in the mouth, it was pretty incredible. All of the entrees on the menu are served with a selection of roast potatoes and vegetables. Both portions of meat were rather generous but they were cooked to perfection. I do think the one thing that was missing was a Yorkshire Pudding but I do know it’s not for everyone, especially on Christmas Day. What’s everyones thoughts on this?
Finally, it was time to make room for dessert and I typically went for the Dark Chocolate & Orange Delice. I always tend to go for the chocolate dessert and this dish mixed with the orange flavours was just like having a Terry’s Chocolate Orange. One of my favourites at Christmas time. Stefan went for the Lemon Tart served with a creme fraiche ice cream. We also got to try out one of their festive rum cocktails before we left. It was basically Christmas in a glass with cinnamon and rum in a glass, what’s not to like?
A massive thank you to Dakota Deluxe and Umpf for such a lovely festive evening. As I said before the Festive Menu is launching on Friday 23rd November and you can get 2 courses for £25 or 3 courses for £30. The food was incredible and would certainly be worth that! Dakota Deluxe has also got a Christmas (£75pp) and New Years Eve Menu (£95pp). Bookings are being taken now for the Festive Menu and you can enquire at enquiries@leeds.dakotahotels.co.uk or call 0113 322 6261.
Are you ready for Christmas and all the food? Have you been to Dakota Deluxe?
XOXO
*Our evening at the Dakota Deluxe was complimentary in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Lauren says
Wow this place is fancy! My mouth is actually watering at the desserts – yum!
http://www.theemeralddove.co.uk
Charlotte says
I’ve been to Dakota for their afternoon tea, so I’m definitely due a re-visit and try their mains. The festive menu looks delightful!