The year of the tiger is almost, but not quite, upon us- but that doesn't mean we can't start the celebrations early.
Celebrating the history of the Lunar New Year and the meaning behind the traditions, modern Chinese restaurant, Tattu have decided to serve up an incredible cocktail that represents one of the most recognisable traditions in China.
Known as the 'Tattu Red Envelope Gift Cocktail, the sparkling orange-red concoction is topped with a creamy foam and torched to give it that toasted marshmallow finish. On the top of the decadent drink is a macaroon with a tiger stamped on top, representing the new year that we will fall into, the Year of the Tiger.
Then, on the side, a red envelope represents the Hong Bao envelope that has become a tradition for those celebrating the Lunar New Year to offer each other. Guests are invited to open the envelopes in search of a golden ticket that has a voucher inside.
Tattu said: "In China, Hong Bao envelopes are given to loved ones on New Year to bestow happiness and good blessings"
"Attached to your Water Tiger cocktail is a miniature red envelope, with the chance to find a golden ticket and win a Tattu gift voucher of up to £100". Will the Year Of The Tiger be your lucky year?"
As one of four Tattu locations in the UK, Tattu Leeds hosts a range of cuisine that are inspired by the quote 'it's all in the detail'. On the food menu, you'll find specials like the Char Sui Monkfish with a delicious honey glaze, served with morning glory, caramel orange and pickled cucumber, which is due to land on their menu soon.
There's also an incredible Chinese New Year dessert on offer: the 'Year of the Tiger Dessert'
A chocolate semi freddo base, topped with fluffy marshmallow, all encased within a tempered tiger print chocolate.
Tattu describe is as "A dessert that is rich and sweet, while the fluffy marshmallow balances these flavours and gives it a smooth lightness to the dish" and we're obsessed with that tiger print encasing.
The venue was closed last weekend as it was used to film the latest Marvel TV series, Secret Invasion.
An independent açai bowl pop-up is opening a permanent cafe in Leeds city centre.
It seems the açai bowl trend isn't over just yet, and we're absolutely not mad about it.
The aesthetically purple frozen treat isn't just delicious, but is also known to have numerous health benefits making it guilt-free and the perfect post-workout pick me up.
You may remember Açai Social Club that opened as a pop-up in the Victoria Quarter last year, and now they're moving into a permanent spot in the city centre.
Run by a lovely husband and wife duo who have spent the last 15 months exploring cafes around the world, it's safe to say they know exactly what they're talking about.
Their açai is made with the very best ingredients, topped with the freshest fruit and sprinkled with their homemade granola - it doesn't get much better then that does it?
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, they said: "Açai Social Club is getting a home. Our very first store is officially on the way! We’ve been working behind the scenes to create a space that’s more about than just açai.
"What started as an idea is finally becoming something you can walk into…There’s still a lot we’re keeping under wraps for now, but we’re so excited to finally share the beginning of what’s to come.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you in. Your new neighbourhood social club, coming soon."
The exact location of the cafe and its opening date is still under wraps, but we'll of course keep you updated as and when we find out.
The Leeds Supper Club bringing people together over incredible food
Clementine Hall
What started as a simple idea around food has grown into something much bigger for Leeds Supper Club.
The idea was born from a love of food and the idea that eating together can be about much more than what’s on your plate.
Rather than simply going out to a restaurant, Leeds Supper Club puts connection at the heart of its events, bringing people together to share incredible food and enjoy an evening in good company.
We had the pleasure of attending their most recent event where we had the most wonderful evening with founders Lizzie, Phillip and the rest of the club.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This instalment was a very special one, as it was in collaboration with Knotfield Vine over in Horsforth.
I mean, it really doesn't get more scenic than this - we really felt like we'd been whisked away to the South of France rather than a Leeds suburb. But we wouldn't want it either way.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
What makes it a cut above the rest is the details. Every little detail has been thought out, from the low-lit, sexy lighting, hand-made name plates, live music and four courses of wonderful seasonal goodness made fresh.
From enjoying a glass of wine within the vines alongside a couple of nibbles to tucking into a three course meal around a candle-lit table, there's really nowhere else like it.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The tagliatelle pasta with beef and whipped feta was a real highlight, and knowing Lizzie and Philip receive help on the menu and the cooking from all their friends made it taste that much sweeter.
By the end of it we'd had some delicious food, fabulous wine and shared even better conversation. And it's safe to say we left feeling a part of the club.
Keep an eye on their Instagram page here for all upcoming events.
Sophie Smith -
27th January 2022 
