Full of Flavour with all the Frills

Akbars (The Grand)

Food - Restaurant/Cafes
in/near Leeds, Yorkshire,
England Yorkshire

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Review added: 04/11/2009 11:59
By: hellbell (£12.50 earned from reviews) Earn £££'s

"I am a massive fan of Indian food spicy, mild and everything in between and always try to find an Indian restaurant where ever I go.

I have lost count of how many times I have now visited Akbars in Leeds. This is definitely my favourite Indian in Leeds City centre although there are still plenty left to try. Although it is a brilliant restaurant there are some down sides and this would not be everyone's cup of tea.

The food here is really tasty and full of flavour, chefs are happy to cook dishes not listed on the menu which is a big bonus for me. I find this a really sociable place and often go with friends straight from work before heading home. Would not really recommend this as a romantic night out as you do get a lot of groups in after work, business dinners I believe they are called. The restaurant itself is really modern which may put some people off, walk ways are lit with lights in the floors, toilets are low lighted and walls and table all look like dark marble, has a very grand feel to it. I also love the fact that when your order is taken they let you know how long your food will take. Once you meal is done you get given a lovely plate of fresh fruit which is a lovely touch and refreshes the palette nicely.
Both a Big plus and negative is the fact that you can not make reservations so it is a case of turning up and waiting your turn, normally this is not too much of a problem and by the time you have had a drink at the bar your table is ready but on some occasions I have gone else where as the waiting time is too long and it is worth bearing this in mind at busy times such as weekends. Again another reason why I would not recommend this as a romantic restaurant for couples.

One big tip if you are watching what you are spending and not too bothered about all the frills then eat at the other Akbars restaurant in Leeds City centre, East Gate (10 mins walk from the Grand Akbars) with a similar menu and equally as good food but quite a bit cheaper as there are no frills and big grand setting. I have also eaten here and was just as impressed."

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