Leeds’ Weetwood Hall invests millions in new Mediterranean restaurant

Weetwood Hall, the hotel and conference centre in Leeds, is preparing for the launch of its new seven-figure restaurant.

Forming part of the University of Leeds-owned Weetwood Hall estate, the £2m Convive venue will serve Mediterranean dishes when it opens its doors in the new year.

To bring a flavour of the Med lifestyle to the area, £450k has been invested in the restaurant’s kitchen, which will be led by head chef Francis Cowlam alongside sous chef Najam Ur Rehman.

Commenting on his appointment, Francis said: “The vision and investment at Convive is on a scale like nothing I’ve ever seen before and I’m really looking forward to asserting my Mediterranean influence on the menu, creating an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

“The freshness and vibrancy of the food and the fact that we’ll be sourcing locally as much as we can and applying a Mediterranean twist means we’ll be supporting lots of great suppliers on our doorstep.”

Francis was hand picked by Weetwood Hall and Convive MD Martin Hicks

Francis continued: “Working with Martin Hicks, a great visionary businessman, the team is relishing the prospect of adding something exciting and new to the dining scene in Leeds.”

Martin commented: “This is an exciting time in the 25-year evolution of Weetwood Hall as we prepare to launch Convive.

“Francis is an outstanding head chef and fits the bill perfectly for Convive. His inspiration is Leeds’ own Marco Pierre White and Francis aims to emulate his style and flair whilst bringing his own passion, personality and experience to the role.”

When it launches in February 2017, Convive will comprise a 120-seat restaurant and bar along with an alfresco garden area under a retractable roof.

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