Salvo’s was one of the first restaurants I ate at when I moved to Leeds for my masters. A group of us went there for a birthday party, after a recommendation from a guy who’d done his undergrad at Leeds Uni. Fast forward almost four years and I still like to go to Salvo’s, but I haven’t seen or heard from the birthday girl since we finished uni.
Anyway, it feels quite fitting that, just weeks before we leave Leeds for adventures new down south, I once more paid a visit to the Headingley institution. Again, we were there for a birthday – a 21st this time.
The four of us ate well – bruschetta with anchovies, cured meats, flat breads and olives for starters, with the others ordering two lasagnes and a calzone for mains. I had Italian-style suckling pig, with rosemary potatoes and various vegetables.
Italian-style suckling pig at Salvo's
S – a connoisseur of lasagnes – said Salvo’s version was the best she’s ever had. Himself and I were satisfied with our food, though perhaps the dishes weren’t as great as some we’ve had there in the past.
Lasagne at Salvo's
A few years ago, as a sign outside the restaurant proudly proclaims, Salvo’s was named the best local Italian restaurant by The F Food. The waiters at Salvo’s must have been a factor – they really are good, appearing at exactly the right time and refilling water jugs the moment they’re empty.
Calzone at Salvo's
The atmosphere has always been great when I’ve eaten at Salvo’s, though I’d read some reviews which complained the restaurant is too noisy and cramped. While there isn’t a whole lot of extra space and it’s definitely lively, I’d never found either of these a problem.
We decided against dessert, but when we got back to our flat, we all had some homemade birthday cake to celebrate.
Salvo’s, 115 & 107 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 3PX.
Presentation: 8/10
Food: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Venue: 9/10 – because the atmosphere is always good.
Service: 10/10
Average: 8.4/10
