Criterion Place,
Leeds,
LS1 4AG
(0113) 243 0905
The ViewLeeds Review
Bibis offers authentic Italian cuisine in a glamorous 1920’s art deco setting.
The Venue
Bibis is located at Criterion Place in the city centre under the arches and within walking distance of the train station. This iconic Italian restaurant provides a decadent dining experience in beautiful surroundings.
The glossy exterior gives way to an equally polished atmospheric bar area which is almost always busy. The impressive cocktail bar is the ideal setting for pre-dinner drinks and captures the glamour of the 1920s effortlessly.
Dining out at Bibis is a rather sparkly affair with crystal chandeliers as far as the eye can see and mirrored columns and walls reflecting your every move. The restaurant definitely has a VIP feel to it, once inside the doors you can’t help but feel special and a little bit spoilt. Even the toilets are undeniably posh.
The main dining area is vast, and it buzzes with conversation. However, you may prefer to take a table on the raised platforms that surround this area for a more intimate experience. There is also a sprinkle of tables suited to smaller groups to the right of the bar.
A stage looms above the dining area and is used for the live jazz nights and the many tribute acts that entertain every Wednesday evening. The open kitchen stretches along the length of one wall and the chefs can be seen working their magic. There is a car park next to the restaurant but you do have to pay for the privilege.
The People
Bibis has an interesting clientele and tends to attract an assortment of well groomed individuals. Today’s culture is an altogether more casual affair than it used to be, yet Bibis brings back the idea of dressing to the nines and with its extravagant decor you can dress up as much as you like without feeling over the top.
Staff are mostly Italian males which definitely gets your authentic Italian experience off to a good start. The service is good if sometimes a little rushed when it gets very busy.
Expect to wait for a table as they don't take bookings on the weekends. The setting lends itself to big family gathering and special occasions alike. The enchanting yet energetic vibe is great for impressive first, second or third dates.
The Food
With more than 90 dishes on the menu there is plenty to choose from and something to please every palate. There is also a great variety of vegetarian and gluten-free suggestions on the menu.
Food is fairly pricey with a simple garlic bread with tomato priced at £6 but the fresh ingredients twinned with the magical setting make it worth every penny. Butterflied king tiger prawns grilled and marinated in garlic and chilli olive oil are sensational at £12.50 for a starter portion.
For any adventurous types, the warm salad of chorizo and pigeon breast (£6.50) is a must. Classic Italian pastas are intermingled with original alternatives such as the pasta ribbons served with duck, mushrooms and parmesan in a cream sauce at £10.50.
Pizzas are phenomenally good, thin and crispy with generous toppings. The smoked salmon, mozzarella, cream cheese, rocket, dill and chive combo (£11.50) is sublime. There are also sophisticated takes on the classic bangers and mash and burger and chips.
Make sure you leave a tiny bit of room for the exquisite desserts. The hot chocolate sponge pudding with chocolate chips and white chocolate ice cream (£4.50) is a chocoholic's dream. The dessert menu also features the usual profiteroles and tiramisu while offering random yet pleasing desserts such as the dark chocolate mousse with white chocolate pannacotta served with Toblerone ice cream and chocolate brownies.
The Drink
Bibis offer almost every concoction imaginable on their drinks menu, from champagne cocktails and after dinner cocktails (£6.50) to martinis and mojitos (£6.50). However, if none of these take your fancy the bar staff are happy to tailor one for you.
There is a pleasing array of wines to choose from with some fantastic Italian contributions. Bottles of wine start at £17.50. The dry white Pinot Grigio Del Friuli (£25.50) is a good choice. Bottled and draught beers are available from £3.30. There are also coffee and soft drinks on offer.
The Last Word
If glitz and glamour is your thing Bibis is the perfect excuse to put on your Sunday best any day of the week. Enjoy fantastic food in a sparkly setting.
Bibis has been reviewed by 6 users