On Thursday evening, I popped along to Leeds for Dine Venues event, with the name and theme of Food & Flowers. The event was held at a gorgeous venue, The Mansion Leeds. Before receiving my event invite or attending the event, I didn’t know much about Dine. Gosh, I am so pleased I was given the incredible opportunity of attending.
Just before Christmas, I received one of the most beautiful invitations I’ve ever seen from Dine Venues. Under each layer was more information about the event and there was also a chocolate lipstick inside the invitation. These incredibly beautiful invites were designed and created by Jane Beadnell from JB Creatives.
As the hashtag #FoodAndFlowers suggested, we had the awesome opportunity of making our very own flower crowns. With help from the wonderful Twisted Willow team who were running the workshop, I created my own flower crown and went a bit OTT with the huge roses. I’d never done anything like this before, so I didn’t think I’d be very good but I gave it a try! I actually found it to be quite therapeutic.
The atmosphere of the event was quite formal but relaxed. The reception drinks included a Sparkling White, or a Elderflower Spritz for those who wanted a non-alcoholic option. As everyone mingled, the canapés included Venison Tartare on Chocolate Spätzle Discs, Ham Hock & Smoked Wensleydale Croquette with Apple Gel, served in a smoking dome and Caprini Goats Cheese Cones with Tomato & Dill Concase, Fig & Balsamic Caviar. As I don’t eat meat now, the goats cheese cones were the only option I could try during the reception.
As you can see above, the table setting at the event was absolutely stunning. The colours and glitter worked perfectly together, which made the whole room look even more beautiful. Before the starters were brought out, the chef (who is very talented – as you will see in a second) introduced himself and explained what exactly it was that we would be served.
The starter was Crab & Saffron Risotto, Pan Fried Scallops & Tempura Soft Shell Crab, served with a delicious wine; Hugel ‘Classic’ Pinot Blanc 2013 – France which was perfect for the seafood. The risotto was so tasty and it melted in the mouth. I wouldn’t usually think of risotto as a starter, but I was really impressed.
For main, most attendees had Fallow Deer with Spiced Umbrian Lentils, Choucroute, Smoked Kale & Chocolate Jus. I recently chose to be Pescatarian, so my main was served with yummy Salmon instead of meat. Of course, I took a photograph of each. Just look at that stunning presentation though!
Finally, we were presented with a gorgeous dessert, aptly named Death By Chocolate. The reason this dish was given such a suitable name is because it consisted of Dark Chocolate & Rosemary Tart with Fennel Ice-Cream, Orange Sherbet & Baked White Chocolate.
I just wanted to say, thank you so much to everyone involved in planning such a wonderful and unique event, including Dine Venues, Twisted Willows and The Mansion Leeds. This was such an interesting evening, with lovely company (some familiar faces and some new)! I had a fantastic time and I loved our goodie bags. Hopefully I will get to experience another amazing Dine Venues event in future.
Discover more from Louise Rose
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.