Yorkshire YATTER

Ihave devoured Rice & Flesh at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London (it’s actually a 14th century recipe of sa ron, beef cheek and red wine), feasted on exquisite caviar in the gilded ballroom of the grand, rococo Catherine Palace in St Petersburg, and sco ed delicious canapes within the hallowed baroque halls of Buckingham Palace. But in recent times I’ve realised that you don’t need to travel across the globe or visit the capital’s salubrious eateries to sample incredible cuisine – as over the past decade Yorkshire has created some of the most amazing restaurants on earth.

Most know about the delicious fare served at establishments such as Roots in York, The Angel at Hetton and The Man Behind the Curtain in Leeds, but over the past year more outstanding restaurants have launched, causing a sensational stir in the culinary industry.

York boasts many world-class new eateries. I was recently lucky enough to visit

Legacy, The Grand Hotel’s new restaurant, which despite its infancy has created a hugely positive furore among food critics. Head Chef Ahmed Abdalla blew my mind and taste buds by serving an array of succulent tastes across his bespoke eightcourse menu – boasting Yorkshire produce with a modern twist. I shall never forget the mouth-watering duck liver ganache or tender salt aged Yorkshire beef with beetroot and bone marrow. The genius Ahmed says he has been inspired by the pioneers of York’s past, ‘Those individuals who turned their imagination into reality, which can now be seen in iconic buildings, revolutionary railways and the heritage of this great city.’

Over in Leeds, The Ivy Asia is a feast for the senses. From the sublime and stunning décor that takes your breath away, to the divine fusion of flavours, the only problem is that you won’t want to leave. Under the guidance of our lovely waiter Joe, we ordered a variety of dishes. The Byrnes still dream of the yellowtail sashimi, Wagyu beef and hot and sour plum chicken. We did ask (beg) Joe if we could move in permanently, but he sadly broke our hearts by saying no.

There’s also the uber chic The Vices York, located in a Victorian Police Station, where you can experience the incredible creations of chef Luke Sanderson at Allium. His diverse selection of tastes and flavours are so divine, the intimate restaurant has already been featured in the Michelin Guide.

So come on Yorkies! Let’s say nay to Nandos, ciao to Chiquitos and farewell to Five Guys, and embrace our county’s best local cuisine. Bon Appetit!

My highlights for the month of April…

Keeping our beloved dogs close to my heart clad in custom made bamboo cotton PJs with bespoke pooch images from Jams Global.

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Styling my hair with sparkling accessories by PONY-O.

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Celebrating my birthday with a luxurious Sisley Phyto Aromatic plumping facial by beauty guru Lucy Holden at Browns.

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Getting a daily dose of the uber healthy Apple Cider Vinegar through chewing gummies by JSHealth Vitamins.