Alibi Bar And Restaurant, Halifax

You could be forgiven for thinking that there are enough bars in Halifax: the town does have its fair share of pubs and of those that serve food. What the town was lacking was a quality and stylish dining destination - until the arrival of Alibi.

Tucked away in the Grade 11 listed Somerset House, you could easily miss the place as it is set back on Rawson Street. Apparently the courtyard in front of the building has been used in the filming of Gentleman Jack.

It was a cold autumnal night when we visited, thankfully the heat and the warm atmosphere met us when we went inside. They have restored the interior tastefully and kept a lot of the old features of the building. Jazzy music plays in the background which is at the right level so you can still have a conversation.

If you want to experience a really wow factor then take a trip upstairs to the magnificent Grand Salon - let's just say it is a room you would not expect to find in the centre of Halifax.

On Saturdays and Sundays Afternoon Tea is served here - if you wish to be surrounded by grand opulence then you have found the perfect location. If you want to impress anyone then treat them to Afternoon Tea here.

Back downstairs the early evening diners are perusing the menu whilst the smell of tempting food fills the air. I try the Yorkshire Blue Cheese - Lomo. Served at room temperature the cheese is full bodied like any true Yorkshire man or woman. My sister decided on the Halloumi Fries - crispy and sharp they didn't disappoint.

They do pizzas that range is price from £8.00 upwards, but in these surroundings it does not feel right to be ordering a pizza, so I go for the Sirloin Steak - I am glad I did, cooked to my preference the thick steak aged for 28 days comes complete with tomato, mushroom and maldon fries.

My sister goes for the Alibi burger - thicker than the walls of Wainhouse Tower although not quite as tall, the meaty burger was described as excellent.

The desserts range from £5.00 upwards. The Apple Tartin must be good, they had sold out of it so the Chocolate Dome, inspired by Gentleman Jack with edible gold leaf and Shibden berries proved that the dessert was no second best.

My sister had her eyes set on the Sticky Toffee Pudding that comes with muscovado sauce and micro apple sorbet. Nice and light with a strong taste.

Good food, quick efficient service and a good ambience. Even Anne Lister would be impressed.

Alibi Bar and Restaurant, Somerset House, 10 Rawson Street, Halifax HX1 1NH
Telephone 01422 320899
www.alibihalifax.co.uk