The world of food is full of wonderful traditions and rich cultures. Here in the UK, one of the most loved traditions which continues to bring families and friends together around dinner tables across the country is the Sunday lunch. From roast beef to vegan roasts, the Sunday lunch evolves, and as we grow increasingly familiar with the food cultures of other countries and continents, there are now a variety of worldwide ways to enjoy your Sunday lunch. We worked our way around York to discover the flavours of India, Brazil, Syria, Portugal and Mexico at five fabulous restaurants sharing their own cultures and traditions. So, if you fancy replacing your Yorkshire pudding with an alternative Sunday lunch, get your families and friends around these dining tables…
Kalpakavadi
In God’s own country of Yorkshire, where better to experience the traditional food of than God’s own country of Kerala? The south Indian state is known by the very same tagline as us, and the two harmonious cultures merge beautifully at Kalpakavadi on Fossgate. Showcasing the food paradise of their homeland, this handsome and welcoming restaurant serves spices and sauces, exotic and expert, of vegetarian delights, meaty magnificence and seafood specialties. A joyous way to spice up your Sunday!
Casa Rodizio
For those who like their Sunday roasts to focus on the finest meats, Casa Rodizio offers an awesome alternative for you. This Brazilian steakhouse – the first in York – invites you to experience the authentic flavours and vibrant atmosphere of Brazil’s culinary traditions, serving a continuous parade of succulent meats directly to your table. Their Super Sunday lunch and dinner replaces roast meats with rump steak, spicy chicken, pork belly and gammon, for a stunning Sunday celebration.
Bab Tooma
The first Syrian restaurant in York, Bab Tooma reveals the best of their homeland to Yorkshire through the food and the people. Evoking the collective spirit of a Sunday lunch, Bab Tooma offers itself as a social hub where people gather from different backgrounds to create a warm community atmosphere. And the food brings a smile too, with marvellous mezzes and gorgeous grills, to feast on or to share. A joyful experience that is both unique and homely.
Tasca Frango
The craze of piri-piri chicken has become hugely popular all over the UK ever since a well-known food chain spread the spice. The Portuguese dish is a fiery favourite, and now you can get stuck into an authentic Portuguese piri-piri chicken in York, at Tasca Frango. Their Colliergate restaurant exudes comfort and joy, and the menu extends too; to Goan curry, spiced hispi cabbage and sharing plates; but if you want to replicate your Sunday roast chicken and potatoes, then it has to be the original piri-piri chicken and chips.
Batanga
The ethos of Batanga epitomises the coming together of people and community that we often associate in this country with a Sunday lunch. Built on the foundation of support and collaboration, they are dedicated to giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of their neighbours. As a Mexican bar and restaurant, this means a party in your soul and in your mouth; tacos, quesadillas, burritos and more are vibrant, colourful and full of flavour. You’ll be welcomed in to share experiences, belonging, and to enjoy that Sunday spirit.
Images- @babtooma_uk
