Eats

De Baga named as ‘Taste of the Year’ after scooping award at Asian Food and Restaurant Awards International

And it was the first time the restaurant had been nominated too.

Sophie Smith Sophie Smith - 14th December 2022

Having only been open since 2019, De Baga has become something of a roaring local favourite over the past few years.

Tables are often fully booked on the weekend, though the team will accommodate as many walk-ins as possible, but given that food here truly blends traditional Indian street food with inventive, modern flavours- it's really no surprise.

Now the food here is going to be recognised on a whole new level after the restaurant has become the 2022 recipient of the 'Taste of the Year' award, representing the North in the 7th annual Asian Food and Restaurant Awards International.

The team were nominated for the first time and came up top for what is known as the 'gastronomical innovation and excellent customer service'.

The owner, Mandeep Singh is overjoyed with the award, "It is a proud moment for us to win this prestigious award. A simple thank you does not begin to cover the gratitude I feel towards the whole De Baga team, chefs & front of house staff. Their hard work and resilience has made De Baga what it is today in such a short time.

"De Baga made its name in the industry during the trying times of Covid-19. Within 8 months of our launch, we were the finalist for Oliver awards in 2020 and have been getting Travellers Choice Awards from last 2 years. A huge milestone for us though a little dampened due to Covid-19."

"We have strived for excellence in the culinary world and continue to do so even during the current rising energy costs and inflation."

The team behind the menu. / Image: De Baga

The ultimate goal of the Modern Indian dining restaurant is to be recognised by the Michelin- but in the meantime, this award certainly gives the UK a taste of the high bar that De Baga has set in the city.

You can find the original Headingley restaurant on Otley Road or head over to the Chapel Allerton site which opened earlier this year.

Celebrating the “East Meets West” spirit of Goa at both sites, the menu consists of unique curries and small plates designed in-house by the chefs. The focus is on flavour, rather than size or spice- and it’s this recipe that makes De Baga one of the most-loved curry spots in Leeds.

Everything is beautifully presented, sweet and savoury. / Image: De Baga

Adding a playful twist to classic dishes, expect Cornetto bites, puff pastries filled with eggplant bhartha (aubergine), chorizo cigars and speciality dishes like the Chingaari Kebab, a red hot flame coloured kebabs special in Lucknowi style Lamb mince, crushed pepper tossed bell peppers, whole spice, served with home made mint sauce.

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For more information on the award-winning restaurant, including how to book your next visit, visit the De Baga website.

Feature Image- De Baga

Eats

Beloved late night Leeds cocktail bar The Maven announces permanent closure

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"

It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.

The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.

Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.

Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."

The post continued: "After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors on the 28th of March.

"Rest assured every booking will be honoured. Every cocktail poured properly. The lights stay low. The music stays on. We’re not done yet.

"Thank you for being our guests - we hope you'll join us for the final chapter and celebrate all things Maven this month."

Comments have been flooding in with fans expressing their sadness and praising them for their 'best spicy margs' and fond memories spent at The Maven.

So make sure to pop by and cheers to The Maven before its gone for good.

Read more:

Featured images - The Hoot Leeds

Eats

Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.

Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.

Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering. 

The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage. 

Images: The Hoot Leeds

The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.

The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.

Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality. 

Image: Supplied

“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here. 

“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.” 

Read more:

Featured image - Supplied

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