Last Saturday we were invited to the new Il Paradiso Restaurant at York Place in Leeds. Il Paradiso’s Italian journey started in York by Sardinia born Paolo and is one of York hidden gems – but once you’ve discovered it, you will love it.
The same could be said for their new Leeds restaurant, situated on the peaceful York Place in Leeds city centre. We arrived a little before our reservation at 8.00pm (because I am always early), but that wasn’t a problem – we were welcomed with a warm smile and shown to our table. The restaurant is a lovely light space that has been recently renovated, with the new venue only being open for a couple of weeks.
We were served by Monica who was lovely and couldn’t do enough to help us and give us some tips and insights into the menu. Whilst we browsed the menu with a glass of wine we were brought some carasau to sample – In case, like me, you were wondering what carasau is, it’s a traditional Sardinian bread and tasted delicious.
We decided to share starters and chose the bruschetta and garlic bread. The garlic bread was layered with a tomato, olive oil and oregano sauce and topped with a traditional burrata cheese which was equally as delicious as the bruschetta. The bruschetta – two tomato and two creamy red pepper topped breads served with olives.
For main course Dave chose a classic – lasagne – which consisted of layers of fresh pasta with a rich bolognese sauce and three cheeses – besciamella, parmesan and mozzarella. I chose a Calzone which Monica helped me to edit in order to avoid mushrooms (i am not a fan!) I opted for Monica’s recommendation of Sarda to accompany the prosciutto. Sarda is a Sardinian pork sausage and tasted amazing alongside the ham.
When it came to puddings I was so full that I had to tap out of dessert, however Dave did manage to sample the classic Tiramisu. I admit I may have sneaked a spoonful or two and it was delicious – much to the delight of Monica who had in fact made the dessert, so much so we had to celebrate with a limoncello!
For me Il Paradiso is a little like going home! Happy and warm staff, relaxed surroundings and tasty hearty food just like that of all the Il Paradiso restaurants. However there is one thing for sure with this place – there is NO WAY you will leave without feeling so full. Italians love food and at this traditional restaurant they want you to enjoy it just as much! My tip with Il Parsdiso at York Place would be book a table while you still can, as the York one gets so booked up – its only a matter of time before the Leeds one does too.
Instagram – @il_paradiso_del_cibo_In_York
Web – www.ilparadisodelciboyork.com
Facebook – Il Paradiso Del Cibo
Open:
- Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 2.30pm then 6pm -10pm
- Friday – Sunday: 6pm -10pm
*Our Il Paradiso at York Place experience was complimentary thanks to the wonderful people at Il Paradiso in return for coverage on my blog. I again thank them this great experience and it goes without saying that opinions in this review are 100% my own (and seconded by Dave)! I will add that we have eaten at both Il Paradiso York before as a non sponsored post. When you have chance you MUST check it out for yourself!
Jack D March 