The Power Lunch, notorious for its boozy lunch reputation and the cultural lunch scene of some of the top CEOs in the 80’s, a moment in time when deals were brokered and made in some of the swishiest establishments.
Long lunches are a trend that now predominantly have their place in history, but could we be seeing the re-found revival of the power lunch, in a more modernised format? The recent pandemic and drive to homeworking saw employees plunged into a virtual and digital world like never before. We all know that business deals rely on strong relationships and despite the power of tech these relationships are better formed face to face.
Post pandemic, the workforce has seen the biggest shakeup of working styles and patterns with many businesses fully embracing Hybrid Working. Employees have adapted to new ways of working, and with that a growth in the range of more non-traditional working and meeting environments such as restaurants and cafes has taken centre stage for modern day business deals.
The decadent days of the 80s lunch may have fallen by the wayside, but this newfound working environment opens up opportunities for a power lunch resurgence, albeit in a more cost-effective, time savvy way. Many professions rely on business lunches as a key opportunity to bond with clients and partners over lunch. Food plays a vital part in daily life and there is no better way to build these relations than via food.
The requirements of the business clientele have changed over the years and many are looking for lunch options that are more cost and time effective. With many restaurants in Leeds now offering incredible lunchtime options in some stunning locations we’ve rounded up our top business lunch picks.
Restaurant Bar and Grill, The Old Post Office, 3 City Square, Leeds LS1 2AN.
Located in the landmark Old Post Office building in the heart of City Square, The Restaurant Bar & Grill provides an impressive setting to enjoy brunch or lunch.
With a 2 course lunch menu coming in at £20.00 with some tantalising starters, mains, and desserts to sample on their vibrant menu from Truffle & Leek Coquettes to Fillet Steak Sandwich and chips to Thai Green Curry sticky rice. The team pride themselves on the philosophy of ingredient provenance and are dedicated to fantastic food and service.
Banyan, The Old Post Office, 2 City Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2ES.
Nestled in the stately Old Post Office this stylish bar and kitchen offers an array of colourful dishes that will have your tastebuds tingling. The food is internationally inspired, meaning British pub-style classics are on offer next to Asian delicacies and European favourites.
With popular small plates a perfect lunch pick priced at 3 for £19.50 with a spicy selection of Chicken Samosa, Salt & Pepper Calamari, Goat’s Cheese and Spinach Arancini to King Prawn Spring Rolls to name but a few to choose from. Locally crafted and globally inspired, expect menus that span from breakfast right through until dinner.
The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, Wellington Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4JY.
Nestled in the heart of the financial district of Leeds, The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar offers modern British cuisine using classic ingredients to create simple yet imaginative dishes.
The lunch menu entails a vibrant range of dishes showcasing the chef’s passion and freshest quality produce from Smoked Salmon, French Onion Soup to Flat Iron Steak and Chips, Saffron Risotto to devilish deserts with 1 course at £12.50, 2 courses at £18.50 and 3 at courses at £24.50. The venue offers a spacious stylish bar area, or a heated wrap around terrace which is perfect for a spot of al fresco lunch.
The Lost & Found, 12 Greek Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5PT & Leeds Club, 3 Albion Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6JL.
Pushing the boundaries of discovery, lose yourself in a whimsical world of molecular mixology and seasonal cuisine. With 2 courses for £16.95 and 3 courses for £20.95 with Crisp Squid, Glazed Pulled Beef Burger, Black Truffle Pappardelle and topped off with Pistachio and Damson Bakewell to a Chocolate and Praline Torte.
With all this choice in such stunning locations, business lunches never looked so sweet!
