Bundobust’s super quirky decor, lively atmosphere and cracking soundtrack are the first hit we get as we arrive. The second is the relaxed, youthful vibe that marries well with welcoming and efficient service. The front of house staff are savvy – very professional without pretension. Then there’s the food…..
So – the food on this particular afternoon has a seasonal spin, which I must admit is not usually my cup of tea. However, we’re here to check out the Christmas menu and I’ve never had a bad mouthful of food at Bundobust.
The festive offerings are in a seasonal red on the menu. We asked for one of each:
Sprout bhajis, Biryani balls, Festive dhal and rice, Mince pie paratha, and Okra fries with sauce trio.
Those who have been to Bundobust know its signature okra fries are not to be missed, so we double checked they’re as great as ever and ordered them again (we weren’t disappointed). Now – my partner and I aren’t very good at sharing, and everything comes out in small (plastic-free )cartons to share. It’s a tense moment when we realise that there are 3 sprout bhajis. There was plenty of food for us both, but that third bhaji was going to be an issue.
Each dish looks perfect and has obviously been cooked for exactly the right amount of time. It’s healthy food, in our case all vegan. Nothing here is going to give us heartburn!
My partner soon makes it clear the third Sprout bhaji is theirs. Reluctantly, I give in. The Christmas vegetable unseen (at least in my world) outside of this silly season makes this a perfect bhaji. The spicy cranberry chutney is a perfect complement. This is not your typical Christmas dinner cranberry sauce that gets chucked out after 11 months in the fridge, and if I could get my hands on this chutney in the supermarket I’d buy it all year round.
It was lunchtime and I wanted an alcohol-free drink . The Ginger Tom festive cocktail was like my 5 a day in a prosecco glass. I also enjoyed the tall glass of the Sharab Munkt Crush to quench my thirst and loved the pomegranate topping!
The restaurant is open from 12 – 9.30 Monday to Thursday, 12 – 10 on Friday and Saturday, and 12 – 8 on Sunday. The bar stays open at least one hour after the restaurant closes. You can click and collect, but it’s worth calling to check about any changes during the festive season.
Bundobust in Leeds is at 6 Mill Hill, LS1 5DQ. Call 0113 243 1248. Or visit the website: [email protected]
