And it certainly knows how to make an entrance!
There was a real buzz in the air in the City Centre as Alex and I headed to Dishoom for its launch night in Leeds.
We were two of the first to arrive – typically keen beans – and already the restaurant had a great atmosphere. Music was playing, drinks were flowing and nibbles were on all the tables. More people arrived as we tucked into poppadoms and chutney, and decided which drinks to sample first.
Quickly, the restaurant was bustling with people and full of energy; perhaps a little too much energy at times, as the music was quite loud and it wasn’t always easy to have a conversation. But then again, we were there to eat, drink and have fun – and there was certainly plenty to keep us occupied.
We were treated to an impressive selection of dishes throughout the evening, with tray after tray of delicious morsels brought to the table. So much food in fact, that I was barely able to finish one mouthful before something else appeared in front of me! It was a fun way to experience the menu, particularly because we got to try so many different flavours and dishes that I probably wouldn’t have chosen for myself.
I particularly loved the paneer with cashews and pomegranate, and the crispy onion bhajis. The meat dishes were also delicious, and packed full of flavour. Some of the bites were a touch on the spicy side for me, but I enjoyed giving everything a go – regardless. It also gave me a good excuse to order more drinks!
The portions served at the launch were deliberately small, so this wasn’t really an opportunity to sit down and have a full Dishoom meal. But we did get to try a lot of different flavours, and the event did a great job of making sure Alex and I would return. By the end of the evening, we were already thinking about coming back for a meal. I am particularly intrigued by the breakfast naan dishes, which I’ve heard are something of a Dishoom speciality.
The drinks were another highlight. With the temperature outside soaring, and having ridden to the event on my bike, being able to order drinks throughout the evening was very welcome! We tried a mixture of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, but the standout for me was the non-alcoholic Marine Drive Spritz, which was fruity, fresh and incredibly refreshing. The Samir’s Vice cocktail was another favourite – it combined pineapple and strawberry flavours with coconut, and rum – delicious and very easy to drink on a hot evening.
A special shout-out must go to the Dishoom team. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive throughout the evening, keeping the food and drinks coming and making everyone feel welcome, despite what must have been a pretty hectic night. We loved watching the bar staff preparing all the cocktails, and the waiting staff chatting with guests and offering recommendations for drinks and meals for return visits.
We decided to head off earlier than most – but not before we picked up the very beautiful and equally useful Dishoom branded goodie bag to take home. It was a lovely final touch, packed with little reminders of the evening, including incense, matches, chilli chutney and a keyring. We both headed out the restaurant swinging out our new bags, and showing off to the City that Dishoom has landed.
Dishoom Leeds made a strong first impression. The launch night was lively, generous and a lot of fun, and with the tempting tastes of what the restaurant has to offer, it left us wanting more. Now I just need to go back for that naan…
Photography by Gemma Bridge.
