It’s Time to Go “Out Out”: 5 UK Restaurants Worthy of Dressing Up For

It’s time to book in somewhere with that je ne sais quoi

The lockdowns were feared to be the end of fine dining. Here at 55/Redefined, we disagree! We think any excuse to don our glad rags and get out of our joggers is good news and after more takeaways and home cooking than I care to remember or ever repeat, it seems we are not alone in craving some fine dining extravagance as it has returned with a bang.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a great gastro pub or brasserie as much as the next person, but every now again, there is something quite delightful about pushing the boat out and going somewhere just that little-bit special.

Here is our pick of five places across the UK that are worth dressing up for and heading “out out”.

Andrew Fairlie

Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Gleneagles, Scotland

As the only restaurant in Scotland to hold two Michelin Stars, whether you are visiting to enjoy the not one, but three championship golf courses, or are simply there to enjoy the food and ambience, you can’t go far wrong with a trip to Andrew Fairlie. It’s worth noting that they are open six days a week, but only for dinner service. And given the 34-page drinks list, you may want to settle in for the eve or have your taxi planned in advance so you can really relax and enjoy the full experience.

Featuring an a la carte menu, three-course fixed price, four-course fixed price and a Degustation menu for those going all-out, the seasonal dishes represent Scotland’s finest.

Find out more at: https://gleneagles.com/eat-drink/andrew-fairlie/

The Lecture Room and Library at Sketch in London

The Lecture Room & Library

The Lecture Room & Library at Sketch, London, England

From hosting my first BIG company dinner, through to intimate date night meals with my husband, The Lecture Room & Library at Sketch has never failed to live up to expectations. Not one, but three Michelin stars to its name, if you haven’t been to Sketch, you are missing out. They constantly re-invent themselves with amazing artwork, installations, and even real ballerinas dancing between the tables when I was last there! Their website is a bit crazy and difficult to navigate but please don’t let that put you off. A trip there is a must, but booking, even for pre-dinner drinks in the bar, is essential.

Under the directorship of Head Chef Johannes Nuding, the French cuisine is artfully presented with a choice between a tasting menu or a three-course, fixed-price, a la carte menu. Wine pairing is available and recommended as is moving into the bar for a cheeky post dinner cocktail, or two…

Find out more at: https://sketch.london/

Large orange shrimp resting on black old-fashioned mini dial telephone

The Man Behind the Curtain

The Man Behind the Curtain, Leeds, England

Opened in 2014 and with a Michelin star within a year, The Man Behind the Curtain is the lovechild of chef Michael O'Hare and is famed as unconventional, boundary-pushing, experience that steps you into the brain of Michael and his global influences. If you are a fussy eater who likes to choose from the a la carte menu, then this is not the place for you. But if you like your experiences to be all-encompassing and are happy to be presented with a tasting menu to take you through a culinary journey, then, we think you may just love this.

Portrait of Michael O'Hare

Find out more at: https://themanbehindthecurtain.co.uk/

Lasan

Lasan, Birmingham, England

If authentic Indian cuisine is your thing, then Lasan, under the leadership of Great British Menu chef Aktar Islam, is the place to seek out. They are the winner of numerous culinary awards, loved by celebs and were even called out by Gordon Ramsay on The F Word as the country’s top Indian Restaurant.

Current dishes include Konkan soft shell crab, slow-braised yearling lamb samosas with tamarind chutney, guinea fowl korma and roasted monkfish with garlic-infused leeks, palak broad beans and Kolkatan Jhol sauce. All located in the beautiful St Paul’s Square in the heart of the Jewelry Quarter.

Find out more at: https://lasan.co.uk/

OX, Belfast, Ireland

Belfast is a vibrant city with a plethora of restaurants. OX, which presents minimalism at its best, has emerged as the front runner. Awarded a Michelin star in 2016, they have racked up over 30 awards and accolades in less than eight years. With beautiful views over the River Lagan over to the stunning 56-foot-tall Ring of Thanksgiving beacon by the Scottish artist Andy Scott, a table by the window is wonderful of an evening.

However, the artistically presented plates are sure to pull your attention back to your table as the very reasonably priced (just £65 for six courses) tasting menu arrives. Passionate about seasonal produce, friends Alain and Stephen unite in their love of fine dining and creating unique food and wine experiences. With just 40 covers, booking is a must.

Find out more at: https://oxbelfast.com

Decorative plate of food from OX in Belfast