Steaks, seafood and THREE types of espresso martini
The leafy North Leeds suburb of Oakwood is about to add a new destination-eating place to its number. Perched on the edge of Roundhay Park just behind the historic Oakwood Clock, a new contemporary steakhouse and grill is shaping up to be a major player in the thriving Leeds food scene.
Housed in the striking wooden building formerly occupied by Café Sylva, the two-floor venue has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment by award-winning interior designers Nanu Soda that will include a lively cocktail bar and private dining area.
The area has really come into its own in recent years, with some of the city’s best bars and independents thriving of late
A mixture of deep colours, sleek finishes, brushed brass accents and vine wrapped beams has resulted in a dark, seductive interior to set the mood. By day, the floor to ceiling windows will help create a brighter space that takes full advantage of the natural light and park views.
Offering premium steaks, chops and seafood, Chophaus will also feature a range of signature dishes on its menu. The talented team of chef’s have a long-list of globe-spanning credentials including the Batu Karang Resort on the island of Nusa Lembongan, Odysseia in Pacific Palace Jakarta and Aiden Byrne’s Church Green in Cheshire.
The menu includes a diverse range of small and large plates that blend beloved traditional dishes with Innovative modern flourishes. Standout small plates include seared king scallops with wild mushroom ragout and winter truffle; Mussels in beer broth with grilled cheese croissant, and game terrine with beetroot ketchup and shallot rings.
Highlights from ‘large plates’ include Texel lamb rump with shepherd’s pie; braised duck leg with smoked foie gras, and Old Spot belly pork with tiger prawns.
Prime cuts of steak will be cooked over a charcoal grill for a distinctively smoky flavour. The 70-cover restaurant will be sourcing its steaks and other prime cuts from Ripon’s coveted R&J Meats, who have been supplying Yorkshire’s best restaurants since 1978.
A selection of seafood dishes range from baked Dover sole with celeriac, grapes and walnuts, to wild bass with braised leeks and potato salad. Chophaus have also gone all out on their Sunday menu, with traditional beef, chicken and pork roasts complemented with a range of sumptuous starters and sides, including Rarebit Profiteroles. Desserts include the classic Black Forest cheesecake with cherries and a palate-cleansing citrus tart with fennel and basil.
The upmarket downstairs bar is also destined to become a destination in its own right, with cocktails spanning stone-cold classics to more exotic concoctions such as Rosemary Paloma blending Patron Silver Tequila shaken with fresh lime and grapefruit juice, finished with a sweet, homemade rosemary syrup. Life’s a Peach is a balanced mix of Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Briotett peach liqueur, cinnamon syrup, Angostura and peach bitters.
A trio of Chophaus Espresso Martinis will make for the perfect post-meal pick me up and include crème brulee or honeycomb syrup mixed with Belvedere vodka, Kahlua and fresh pulled espresso. A classic version will also be available for traditionalists.
General Manager Matt Kerrywood, previously of Iberica, Rare and Malmaison, said ahead of the opening on Wednesday 11th December:
"Oakwood is one of the most vibrant suburbs in the city and we couldn’t think of a better place to make Chophaus a reality. The area has really come into its own in recent years, with some of the city’s best bars and independents thriving of late. We’re confident that our restaurant will be a go-to destination for both locals and those from wider Leeds and beyond looking for exceptional steak in a lively, modern venue.’’
