As a self-confessed foodie, I’ve always been open to trying new types of cuisine. Food is an important element of any culture, and eating out can be a great way of discovering culinary customs from around the world (without the flight cost!). In my recent ventures around Leeds, I’ve been exploring what our region has to offer in terms of Street food. Perfect for students, the Street food culture gives us an insight into traditional dishes from different world cuisines, but without the cost of restaurant dining.
Trinity Kitchen
My meal: Beef Brisket in Vietnamese noodle broth, Pho-Trinity Kitchen
Situated in the Trinity Shopping Centre, the Trinity Kitchen is a unique setting that offers an abundance of varied street feasts. The different food vans and stalls are inspired by a range of world cuisines, including Mexican, Vietnamese and American.
From burgers to burritos, the Trinity Kitchen caters for all tastes and sizes. With most meals priced between £5 and £8, you get good value for your money and decent food portions. This is a great place to go for a casual lunch between shopping or with friends, but don’t expect a restaurant experience (this is street food after all!).
Bundobust
My meal: Bundobust- Okra fries, Tarka Dahl, Biryani Balls, Massala Dosa.
Popular amongst students and the public alike, this hidden gem is a food bar that specialises in Indian Street Food and craft beers. Aside from its stylish interior (exposed brick is always a winner), Bundobust offers a unique atmosphere and quality food.
Whilst I’m not a vegetarian myself, Bundobust has opened my eyes to the potentials of vegetarian and vegan cuisine. As well as a large range of IPA (Indian Pale Ales), the kitchen offers an array of cold and warm dishes, most of which are vegan-friendly. My personal favourites include Biryani Balls (a take on Italian Arancini balls), Okra fries (lady’s fingers in chickpea batter) and Tarka Dahl (a lentil curry served with basmati rice).
In terms of cost, Bundobust is great value for money; although a little pricier than Trinity Kitchen, you pay for the quality. If you’re planning on going for a mid-week lunch, I would recommend their express menu: you can choose two dishes from their set menu for £7. At evenings and weekends, you are looking at around £10-£12 per meal (2-3 small dishes). Definitely worth a visit if you’re passing through the city centre!
The Cat’s Pyjamas
My meal: Tandoori Mixed Grill, Chicken 65, Amritsar Fish.
The Cat’s Pyjamas is another foodie favourite. Found in the heart of Headingley, this restaurant also takes inspiration from the Indian Street Food culture, offering a range of traditional dishes inspired by India’s top locations.
The dynamic setting (LOVE the décor) serves as a reflection of the varied and innovative menu, which comprises a wide range of meat and veggie-based dishes. Depending on how you feel on the night, you can order a mixture of small plates, or stick with the starter and main combo. The restaurant offers a variety of curries for mains, but I personally prefer to order a few small plates for a bit of variety. The lamp chops, paneer tacos and Kolkata Chaat are my top favourites, but the menu as a whole is just delicious!
The price range is also reasonable. In terms of food, you’re generally looking at around £15-£20 for two to three courses. Again, you pay for quality and a restaurant-based service. On a side-note, I’d definitely recommend booking. This is a popular venue, and understandably so!