A major dental operation recently left this seasoned socialiser on the sidelines. After a depressing two week diet of "no alcohol and soft food" it was therefore great to make my first foray back into public life with a welcome return to Leila Lilys in Newcastle.
Situated on the iconic Grey Street this opulent and refined venue is one of the jewels in the Malhotra Group crown and the perfect setting for any occasion.
We visited prior to a visit to the theatre and were hugely impressed upon arrival. The restaurant has the most gorgeous floral décor and welcoming booths to sit and enjoy your meal.
Serving sophisticated plates Leila Lilys offers an extensive menu range including starters ideal for grazing, elegant main courses and delicately assembled desserts.
After much deliberation over a welcome glass of Pinot Grigio I kicked off this culinary feast with the classic King Prawn Cocktail, a dish you don’t see enough these days in this humble critic’s opinion. The succulent prawns accompanied by a tangy zesty sauce were a delight with the accompanying Bloody Mary Sauce a real treat.
Lisa opted for confit duck spring rolls with an eyecatching Asian salad and soy marmalade. Very fresh and tasty with a real fusion of flavours according to Mrs G.
If the starters were impressive then the mains were no less so. I opted for the signature Leila Wagyu Burger, 8oz of prime Wagyu Beef with seeded Brioche, Black Truffle Mayo, Smoked Cheese, Streaky Bacon, Caramelised Guinness Onions, Gem Lettuce, Tomato, Fries & Onion Rings. Absolutely delicious and light years away from the spartan fayre I’d had in the preceding fortnight after my operation. I also noted that £1 from every Wagyu Burger sold is donated to Newcastle Westend Food Bank. A lovely touch.
Lisa meanwhile tucked into Herb Roast Chicken with Pomme Pureé, Wild Mushrooms, Confit Onion, Barbecued Asparagus and Tarragon Red Wine Sauces which she described as nothing short of perfection. The chicken was crisp and golden, and the meat was succulent and imbued with a medley of herbs that added depth and complexity to each tender bite. Velvety and rich, the sauce draped the chicken in a luxurious embrace.
We then rounded off a lovely meal by sharing a delicious lemon cheesecake. Calorie counting could wait for another day.
Our waitress Amber looked after us throughout with terrific service adding to the overall experience.
From January 3rd-12th Leila Lilys is offering 50% off their A La Carte Menu (visit website for full t&c’s) and their Eva Rose Garden is perfect for hire for private and dinners.
Definitely one we’d recommend.
www.leilalilys.co.uk