Flawlessly executed by renowned Executive Head Chef, Craig Rogan, the Christmas menu at The Collective is sure to bring joy to all men (and women, in fact).
I was invited to sample their Christmas tasting menu, and it’s fair to say my expectations were already quite high; the fayre at The Collective usually delivers on taste and style. However the innovative twists and festive touches on their 5 Course Christmas Tasting Menu made this visit feel extra special.
The Collective, a unique interior design and cafe-bar concept, is located on 34 Boar Lane in the centre of Leeds. This stylish café-bar is brimming with high-quality furnishings and tableware with a vibe inspired by the laid-back Los Angeles art scene. Every piece of traditionally crafted furniture, the light fittings, the art and even the cups are available to purchase.
It’s not just the cafe-bar-interior-design-hybrid that’s innovative though. The food is an absolute delight and is even more incentive than the venue’s concept.
This Christmas you can choose between the 5 course tasting menu at or the 8 course tasting menu.
I sampled the 8 course menu and it was stunning:
Course 1 – Chestnut Bread, Red Pepper and Goat’s Cheese. Light yet rich, creamy and the perfect start to the menu.
Course 2 – Oak Smoked Salmon, Sea Buckhorn and Caviar was as deliciously decadent as it sounds.
Course 3 – Ox Cheek, Bone Marrow and Pancetta was a surprise as it wasn’t a dish I was expecting to enjoy. It turned out to be one of my favourites.
It was Course 4 that stole the show for me however. Hen of The Woods with Sherry Vinegar and Cheddar – an absolute delight and the perfect winter dish.
Course 5 – King Prawn and Scallop, Njuda and Scotch Bonnet which was delicate and oh-so-tasty.
Course 6 – Smoked Duck With Pomegranate and Walnut; just divine.
It was then the perfect point to introduce Course 7: Sweet Cheese and Mulled Brambles which was a lighter touch.
To finish Course 8 was a delightful Dark Chocolate, Maude Coffee and Peppermint concoction.
Portions were perfectly balanced so as not to overpower and – although I didn’t try it – the accompanying wine pairing menu at an additional £35 looks like a great addition.
It is the perfect Christmas menu for any foodie looking for tastes to surprise and delight this season!
Book here: https://collectiveinc.co.uk/
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
