Reliance, Leeds
Feb 7th, 2010 by phildean1963
The first lunch of my ‘extended period with no fixed job of work’ was spent in The Reliance in Leeds. And I can think of no finer place to spend it. It was an off-the-cuff affair (always the best, of course) and I met Mr Street for a quick pint and a bite.
I think Reliance is one of Leeds’ hidden gems. Situated just on the edge of the city on North Street, it has an unassuming frontage next door but one to one of Leeds’ legendary curry houses - Hansa’s. The atmosphere is chilled and laid back, with a bohemiam chic that is conducive to a relaxed approach to eating and drinking.
On this occasion, a pint of their own brew - ‘Reliance Bitter’ of course - and beer battered fish and chips were juts the ticket for a cold winter afternoon. The chips were advertised as twice fried and they were crisp on the outsided and fluffy inside. the mushy peas combined traditional mushed green marrowfat with garden peas and the accompanying tartare sauce was homemade, caper filled and zingy. On to the fish - a small but perfectly cooked piece of haddock was a joy. The batter was perfection, made with one of the bitters on offer (can’t quite remember which). Mr Street has a ciabatta chip butty which he declared spot-hittingly good.
Next time you’re around the top of Leeds, I would recommend at least a beer or two in Reliance and if you have the appetite and the time, stop by for some lunch. You’ll discover one of Leeds’ little treasures.
We go very regularly to The Reliance, its our fave place in Leeds. We would certainly recommend the restaurant situated at the back of the bar. It has an open kitchen and the chefs are happy for you to chat and ask questions about the food. Recently I had the most delicious venison liver which was even better than calves. I was unsure at first but the chef described the texture and flavour accurately and even let me see an uncooked piece before I made my choice. They always have a good mixture of dishes to choose from including a sausage and a mash of the day - and the pudds are extremely tempting!
I have never managed to eat here as its always so busy when I have been!