With lunch dishes starting from just £7, and Ucha Oonu thali platters starting from just £12.50, the new menu is set to cause a stir on the city centre’s lunchtime scene
Uyare, the chic Keralan restaurant with a rooftop bar in the heart of the city, has launched a unique lunchtime menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of South India – meant to be served and enjoyed within your lunch break.
At its centre is ‘Ucha Oonu’ – meaning “midday meal” in Malayalam – Uyare’s refined take on the classic Keralan thali. This vibrant spread includes four traditional curries, homemade chutney, spicy pickle, crispy pappadam, steamed rice, and soft Kerala-style bread. Available in both meat (£14.50) and vegetarian options (£12.50), it’s a celebration of bold flavours and comforting familiarity, designed to bring a taste of Kerala to Leeds city centre without taking a full afternoon to do so.
Complementing the thali are Uyare’s ‘Signature Bites’ – ideal for quick midday escapes – including masala-fried cauliflower, succulent lamb cubes sautéed with black pepper and Keralan spices, and grilled, spiced king prawns.
For those after something heartier, Uyare’s ‘Classic Plates’ offer exceptional value – pairing mains like the rich Nadan Kozhi chicken curry or slow-cooked Kunjaadu lamb with a choice of steamed rice or flaky Kerala paratha, both traditionally served separately. It’s a generous, flavour-packed offering that delivers a complete, elevated lunch without any compromise on time or taste, whilst being purse-friendly.
A standout on the menu is Uyare’s masala dosa – a golden, crisp rice crepe served with delicately spiced potato masala and warming sambar. A beloved staple across South India, it’s light yet satisfying, and offers a comforting, flavourful option for those looking for a plant-based or vegetarian-friendly lunch.
To end on a sweet note, desserts strike a perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing. From fragrant kulfi in mango or almond-pista to a delicate coconut pudding topped with summer berries, each dish is crafted to round off the South Indian lunch experience with elegance and authenticity.
Speaking of the new menu, Ajith Kumar, Head Chef at Uyare said: “We wanted to bring the spirit of a traditional South Indian lunch to the city – something soulful, vibrant and nourishing, but still refined enough for a modern lunchtime crowd. Whether guests are joining us for a quick thali or a longer lunch with colleagues, this menu is about comfort, flavour, and a sense of discovery and we’re excited to bring a fresh take on lunch in Leeds.”
Situated on top of Victoria Gate, Uyare’s rooftop setting offers a chic and peaceful retreat from the bustle below – a hidden gem for food lovers, business diners, and cultural explorers alike.
For more information and to book a table, visit the website: https://www.uyare.co.uk/.