When one place falls, another inevitably will rise in it's stead, and it's always with a pang of…read moreguilt and apprehension that I visit a new place where an old favourite once stood tall. What I'm talking about is Riverplate. Hunks of meat delights were once available in this excellent spot, and so when I found out it had closed and been replaced, I was more than a little sad for them - they are a fantastic Leeds indie, and a stalwart on the scene. (Don't panic, I hear they're still doing pop up events, until they're rehomed - so fingers crossed we can all meat it up again soon.)
Even so, on a night when hunger is ravishing your mind, and your first option is unavailable, one has to overcome such hesitations and wade right in. This was such an evening, yesterday, and being a tapas fiend I was wooed by the tempting reviews (thanks Katie & Jen!) and balcony dining. We went in, without having booked, and being a Sunday were able to be seated right away. That's not to say the place was empty, but it wasn't full.
Firstly, our waitress was incredible. She attended everything impeccably, from seating us on the balcony in the cool air, to guiding us through the menus (without coming off patronising) in an informative way. She was patient as we deliberated over the many tempting dishes, and was incredibly helpful when it came to choosing. At one point I required advice between the calamari and salt cod. Upon being asked, she immediately replied, "Ooooh, the salt cod!", in such a firm sigh that it suggested she was reliving a foodie moment of bliss, rather than merely offering an opinion. That she was so enthusiastic about the food was a great start, and rather encouraging, given how genuine it seemed.
Being tapas, we were informed the food would come out as it was cooked, rather than in one go. We managed to nip out for a quick cigarette, before the onslaught of ecstasy began. Did I say ecstasy? Yes, yes I did. And I meant it. I had hoped the tapas would be great, and those desires were met, matched, and surpassed in spades. First to come through were the mushrooms and the mozzarella bites. (Not the official names.) They were both instantly flavoursome and more-ish, the pesto accompanying the mozzarella being of particular note.
Next came the lamb patties and chorizo and potato. The former was a truly interesting blend of spiced and herbed lamb mini burgers, complete with pine nuts, and chimichurri. Whilst these were my least favourite, that by no means indicates they were poor. They were great. The chorizo and potato was beyond divine and came drenched in a plummy sort of sauce, so alive with flavour it was almost too rich for one person. I devoured it all, regardless.
And lastly. My final dish. The salt cod.
So, it was discussed on the night that it seems ridiculous that anyone would eat seafood and fish in Leeds, because we couldn't be further from the coast. That's as may-be, but I've not ever been close enough to the coast to test the theory. However, I'll warrant that these little lightly battered parcels of extreme and total joy could barely be matched elsewhere for flavour and succulence. I am not au fait with fish, as I rarely order it, so bear that in mind if you order them - but - these were the most delicious thing that I tasted that evening, and possibly now come in my top five mouthfuls in Leeds. The tzatziki that accompanied them was, for lack of a better word, perfect. The batter was crispy, not oily, and melted in your mouth. The cod itself came in meaty delicious chunks, it was delectably salted, and I'm sure there was a tiny bit of chilli for a kick. Next time I might just eat four dishes of those.
I know now why she had to take a moment when advising I order those. I'm taking a moment right now writing about it.
To finish, we both partook of the dessert menu, mainly as it was exciting to order a sherry that matched. Needless to say, as per the quality of the above, my mango and coconut cheese cake was seriously impressive. The dried fruit was a nice touch, and the sherry went down very well. It's worth pointing out also, the manager (I assume) served us at different points, and was also really friendly too - I spotted him explaining some dishes to a couple near us with great pride.
So, I've written quite a word-splurge about my experience here, but there you have it. I have a new favourite in Leeds, and honestly have to return to try more of their menu. It's not tapas in the traditional sense, but their well thought out menu brings a sense of haute cuisine to their dishes, as each and every one had an excellent balance of presentation, taste, and colour. Price wise, we got 9 dishes, 2 desserts, 2 sherrys and 3 beers for £33 a piece. I realise that might price some folk out, but considering the amount we ate, the ambiance we enjoyed, the service we received, and the flavours consumed, colour me one happy happy bunny. I've spent that much money and gotten much less before... Highly reco
