Dastaan Leeds

The story

Dastaan Leeds | Modern Indian Dining in North Yorkshire

The Executive Kitchen

Dastaan Leeds anchors its modern Indian dining program under executive chef Nand Kishor Semwal, who translates his previous tenure at Gymkhana into a streamlined kitchen that actively avoids established curry-house conventions. Operating as a sibling branch to the original Epsom location, this Indian kitchen applies a contemporary structural approach to classical techniques while preserving the foundational heat and texture of the region. The Good Food Guide recognised this deliberate methodology when awarding the venue a Local Gem status last cycle. Every preparation prioritises ingredient integrity over heavy masking.

Signature Flavours

Diners often anchor their meals with generous charred paneer tikka accompanied by sharp mint chutney or golden spinach and kale bhajiya fried to a crisp finish. The core menu shifts toward deeply flavoured mains such as slow-cooked pork cheek vindaloo and aromatic Malvani fish curry built on carefully toasted ground spices. Weekend service introduces a dedicated lunch pathway through these Indian cooking traditions, allowing guests to sample regional profiles without committing to a full evening sequence.

The Dining Room

A broad 130-cover floorplan supports both intimate tables and larger party arrangements beneath subdued lighting and mounted contemporary artwork. An integrated bar station runs parallel to food service, dispensing Kirkstall Brewery draught selections, house-made cocktails, and a rotating white and red wine lineup. Evening reservations generally extend until closing time, providing sufficient window for guests to navigate the seasonal festive menus or secure a spot for the upcoming regional supper club themes.