Tuesday 30 September 2014

Rafique Advisor: Med-One Huddersfield

Introduction

Med-One is considered one of the best restaurants in Huddersfield. At the time of writing this review it sits at #26 of TripAdvisor's list of top restaurants in Huddersfield, however it remains in contention for #1 on RafiqueAdvisor.

It is a Lebanese restaurant concentrating on Mediterranean and Levantine cusines [1].

Restaurant

Having run successfully for the past few years, the restaurant has recently been revamped and now includes a large second floor space, though I have never been seated there. The clean white walls are adorned with various reminders of head chef Khalil's heritage, and the smell from the kitchen greets you as you arrive.

Service

Though waiters and waitresses seem to change every month, the majordomo has been a stalwart figure, and remains the highest authority when asking for recommendations or the contents of a dish. The pace of Med-One is somewhat laid back, however when times are busy or you sit amongst a large group, efficiency is high and food is delivered hot and in one go.

Food

A few favourites for your perusal.

Starters

Chef's Bread (V): Two freshly baked breads (similar to lavas bread), that are both soft and crispy, lightly sprinkled with herbs and served with two dips. This is an appetiser that I always order as the mains here are quite large and a starter is not always necessary. The two dips (one yoghurt based, one tomato/chilli based) are unlike anything you would expect, and both are rather refreshing.

Taken from the Med-One website


Kubbeh Makliye: A hot starter for those that wish to try something new. Minced lamb surrounded by a combination of crushed wheat and lean minced lamb, served with a taratour dip (yoghurt, garlic, sesame paste) and side salad. A serving usually contains 3 Kubbeh Makliye.

Mains

Goulash: Perhaps not what you would expect in a Lebanese restaurant, but this dish is my personal favourite.Mixed peppers, diced beef, courgette, aubergine, tomatoes, garlic, herbs and spices with freshly baked bread topping, served with rice and side salad. Ask for extra thyme for a distinct flavour. Also available as a vegetarian dish, this should more than satisfy your taste buds. When done properly the tender beef absorbs the rich flavours, and is complemented well by the bread and rice.

Kebab Halabi (Aleppo Kebab): A large kebab for the hungry carnivore. Lamb kebabs in freshly baked Lebanese flatbreads served with chopped parsley, finely sliced red onion, copped tomato, drizzled with lemon juice, and seasoned with sumac. This dish contains a hefty helping of lamb, and though it may seem simple from the description, you will enjoy it.

Kevino Pizza


Kevino Pizza: A folded pizza containing tomato sauce, cheddar cheese, shredded lamb, baked then filled with fresh tomatoes, finely sliced onions, peppers, lettuce and drizzled with garlic sauce. A new pizza experience, this feast will leave you content and possibly drowsy.

Maqluba: Rice cooked with seasoned grilled chicken and aubergine topped with lightly toasted pine nuts, served with side salad and tsatsiki. Tender chicken and flavoursome rice, this is a smaller dish than most, and as such makes a good lunch option. 

Deserts

Qatayef, from Med-One's Facebook page


Med-One's deserts are it's weak point. With a very small selection as it is normal to finish a meal with tea or coffee. All deserts are nut-heavy for those with allergies, and incredibly rich. I would recommend trying Qatayef; a crepe like desert filled with clotted cream or walnuts & cinnamon. 

Wine

My friend and colleague David Bruton is something of a connoisseur when it comes to wine. He recommends the £40 bottle of Lebanese red.

Rating

A light and airy setting, excellent food, and warm service. In my opinion the best place to eat in Huddersfield, perhaps Sir Patrick Stewart agrees.
Sir Patrick Stewart at Med One
 I award Med One 5 stars.



[1] http://www.med-one.co.uk/about/

Rafique Advisor

Over the past few years I have visited many restaurants in Manchester and Huddersfield, mostly because I lived on the Curry Mile and near Huddersfield town centre. After giving advice on local eateries, my friend and colleague Jordan Taylor started referring to my advice as 'Rafique Advisor'.

So in order to help others when making important eating decisions, I have decided to put these 'reviews' on this blog, and perhaps make a new blog if they become too numerous.

All views are my own.