Review on Box Tree
Widely regarded as one of Yorkshire's most legendary restaurants, the Box Tree occupies an old farmhouse built around 1720. The eponymous box trees out front were planted during the nineteenth century and the place served as a tearoom before founding fathers Malcolm Reid and Colin Long appeared in 1962.
In recent years, the place has seen mixed fortunes and a succession of chefs, but the arrival of Simon Gueller (who did great things in Leeds and Harrogate) promised an upturn at the end of 2004.
The famously idiosyncratic décor that once typified the place has been toned down and lightened up of late and the food has taken on a sharper, more contemporary feel. Gueller's cooking can spring some stunning surprises, as in wild Cornish sea bass with fresh cocos beans, basil, chillies and smoked salt or crown of Yorkshire chicken with a bouillon of ceps and white truffle pearl barley.
There's also a classic, traditional French undercurrent to proceedings which might result in shellfish marinière, grilled Dover sole on the bone with asparagus and hollandaise or breasts of Anjou squab pigeon with confit, quince purée, roast foie gras and fondant potatoes.
Desserts could range from textbook passion fruit soufflé with hot raspberry sauce to weird and wonderful 'deconstructed' pineapple tarte Tatin with Pina Colada. A pedigree wine list full of top-end treasures adds lustre to the whole experience.
Box Tree is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Modern French
Chef
Simon Gueller
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm Fri & Sat (12.00 - 3.00pm Sun)
Dinner: 7.00 - 9.30pm Wed-Fri (6.30 - 9.30pm Sat)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express