There are steak houses and then there is Chophaus Leeds! If you live in the Leeds area and you have never been … shame on you!
We are here to change that and here’s why.
Having been invited to visit and try the new summer menu, we couldn’t wait. Perched on the edge of Roundhay Park just behind the historic Oakwood Clock, this stylish restaurant and bar is the perfect place to indulge. It not only has a superb location, Chophaus guarantees excellent food, dynamic cocktails and the best service. In fact, it has everything!
This is especially true now that they have introduced an enviable selection of Sushi and Sashimi to their menu, running alongside the amazing steaks and chops they are renowned for.
The evening we visited was to showcase all items from the new summer menu and this meant that we didn’t need to choose – we had small plates of everything, cooked and presented to us by new Sous Chef, Nicolo Ingarao.
Nicolo not only expertly cooked each dish, but he also brought everything to our table with a full explanation and enthusiastically enquired for feedback, was there anything we didn’t like and which were our favourites – he was eager to know.
However, I am jumping ahead as when we arrived, we were greeted by Assistant Manager, Simon Tate, who invited to choose a cocktail – we didn’t need to be asked twice, we each choose a Signature Cocktail, Champagne Super – Clover for me (Chase Rhubarb and Apple Gin blended with Moet Rose, homemade raspberry syrup and lemon juice) and Roundhay Rum Punch for my dining partner, (Plantation Pineapple Rum, Apricot Liqueur, Wray & Nephew Rum, apple and lime juices, Orgeat and Creole Bitters). We were in cocktail heaven.
What a great way to start the evening. Soon after the cocktails arrived, so did the first of our taster plates. We were served snacks of Guacamole & Crackers and Beef Short Rib Croquettas. Oh my! Those croquettes were to die for! We would have been happy with a huge plateful of those, but we knew what was to come.
Next, we were served Grilled Scallops Tomato Dashi Ponzu Ndjua Oil & Crumb and Avocado & Purple Corn Tostardos With Quail Egg & Chilli. We both agreed the standout dish here was the scallop, perfectly cooked and the flavours were pure genius. What a dish.
Then, one of the highlights we had been waiting for, a beautiful selection of Sushi and Sashimi. Bursting with freshness the colours and the taste were magnificent. If you have never tried the freshest of raw fish, you have no idea what you are missing. Please try it at least once in your life – we guarantee you will love it! It doesn’t come any better than the platter we were served at Chophaus. Bravo!
As if that wasn’t enough, the meat courses arrived! Grass Fed Hereford Ancho Ribeye, Teriyaki Glazed Beef Shortrib and Chilli & Yuzu Glazed Baby Chicken. Each cooked to perfection and we really struggled to choose a favourite. Premium mouth-watering beef, succulent chicken, flavours that worked so well together that we kept on eating, even after we were full. Could it get any better?
Well yes actually as soon as they brought out the Nduja Topped Mac & Cheese! Who doesn’t love Mac and Cheese?
Final course was Spiced Churros & Tonkabean Vanilla Caramel Purin. Light, sweet and totally perfect.
What a night, what a superb dining experience. It had been a long time since we enjoyed a menu so much and we wondered if we would be able to walk to the car, we were so full.
It has to be said that whether you are celebrating a special occasion, or hosting VIP guests, this is the perfect setting. You can dine inside or al fresco and there is also a private dining area at Chophaus providing the perfect backdrop to entertain and impress. From showstopping events to bespoke private dining packages or just great meals with family and friends, Chophaus is a place where special occasions create long lasting memories and this experience will stay with us for a very long time.
Well, until we go again, which will be very soon!
