I truly couldn't be more impressed with this fantastic establishment. It's been said many a time…read morebefore, wander along Duncan street, and you'll spot a bit of hide away signage, some tables and a door that leads you down into the depths within. By rights it should still be classed as a hidden gem, since it's off the standard track, but there's a reputation for excellence that now precedes it -and one that holds firm. For all the right reasons.
Let's get to the taste of it, firstly. Tapas. Not just any tapas, but freshly made to order, with a chef whose passion for seeking out foraged foods, unique flavours and intriguing combinations continues to delight my mouth. I've seen a few items on the menu change, but there are still the stalwart choices that remain and so they should- the incredible chicken wings, beautifully breaded, and delectable with the dipping sauce. The humungous mushrooms, the perfectly cooked squid, the amazing chips. My friend took me here recently for their incredibly reasonable half-priced-tapas deal, and we ordered a mountain of food. Call me king of climbs, since we polished off the lot, and basically had everything on the menu.
How about atmosphere? During the lighter hours, which make little difference in this spacious, illuminated cavern, you can find a varied range of coffee drinkers, wifi users, diners and other such folk. The staff have never failed to proffer warm welcome, and there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the space -a glance at the walls reflect some of Leeds' finest local art and design. If you fancy tipples, there's a fairly fancy cocktail list to get excited over, and deals on appropriate days should you wish to save yet more pennies. The outside courtyard provides a fairy-lit yard, hidden away from the streets, tucked in behind the backs of several buildingswith miniature New York feel. (Try and catch the staff pulling down the fire escape stairs to the building, and you'll see what I mean.)
Finally, what about entertainment? If you've ever fancied trying your hand at Salsa, you can join in the salsa dance classes from 7pm each Tuesday -beginners are more than welcome, and the class is very accommodating and friendly. It's easier than you'd think, and actually quite the laugh. No need for friends to accompany you either, since you all end up taking turns to dance with each other as well! But it's their DJ nights that have brought them the most renown. Effortlessly garnering some of the world's finest, their eclectic range of DJ events showcase some far ranging and serious talent- and I hope to dance until the wee hours at one of their parties soon. Music, food, and love, with just the right amount of booze thrown in. It's not just a bar, it's an emporium of awesome, that makes Leeds a much better place.