Review on Host
Host restaurant came to the attention of foodies after a glowing review from The Sunday Times' restaurant critic Marina O'Loughlin. Formerly occupied by Italian chain Carluccio's, it is set in a conservatory style building located on one of the most sought-after addresses, The Grove in the picturesque spa town of Ilkley in West Yorkshire.
Chef patron is locally born Joel Monkman, who has created a gem of a neighbourhood restaurant with a welcoming and relaxed ambience. The menu is designed for sharing and Joel makes the most of the abundance of local and seasonal produce. A good starting point while you peruse the menu is the house bread served with whipped pork dripping and cultured butter or the hogget scrumpet with minted green sauce. The recommendation is to order two or three plates per person along the lines of Tamwort pork belly, celeriac and January King cabbage or from the sea East Coast halibut, sea vegetable and clam 'bourride' stew, parsely and aioli. When it comes to desserts it's hard to resist the chocolate, caramel and walnut mille feuille and creme fraiche or the passion fruit ice cream sandwich.
Service is notably friendly and the carefully curated wine list focuses on Europe.
Cuisine
Modern British
Chef
Joel Monkman
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm Thu-Sat (12.00 - 3.30pm Sun)
Dinner: 5.30 - 9.00pm Thu-Sat
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express