Times change as a taste of Bollywood comes to Leeds

A grand opening this week, during National Curry Week, will see 150 guests, ranging from Leeds's key business figures to a host of celebrities, invited to sample the extensive halal menu, and indulge in a celebration of glamour as the restaurant

is transformed into a Bollywood film set for one night only.

Guests will be dazzled with Bollywood dancers, have the chance to feature on a wall of fame and vote for a signature cocktail to be added to the menu, all in sumptuous surroundings created with the help of Bradford's most famous Asian business, Bombay Stores.

Set in the listed landmark Dyson Clock Building, the new Leeds eatery pushes the boundaries of the traditional 'curry house' concept.

With chandeliers won from a bet in Monte Carlo and interiors imported from Dubai, the AM Kitchen & Bar is the brainchild of leading entrepreneur and TV's Beat the Boss star, Atif Malik.

The Manchester-based business tycoon chose Leeds as the prime destination over his home city.

Atif, who has been in business since the age of 11, is one of the youngest property tycoons in the country.

A millionaire several times over, he's still only in his early 30s and his range of business interests include several property companies, bars and hotels.

His most recent ventures include the acquisition of a new shopping centre in Wigan with a view to transforming the centre of the city into a futuristic shopping experience, and now the ambitious transformation of the Dyson Clock Building.

"Indian food has a great sense of history and tradition, which is about gracious hospitality, sharing with family and friends," says

Atif.

"This is what the essence of Indian dining is all about at AM Kitchen & Bar and we feel this is reflected in the Dyson's Clock venue, one of Leeds's most traditional buildings.

"I decided to open my first restaurant in Leeds as it is such a vibrant city with a real passion for fine dining.

"The glamorous interior gives an exclusive atmosphere and the diverse menu, using fresh local ingredients cooked by experienced Indian masterchefs, will tantalise taste buds on all levels."

The venue is steeped with history after beginning life as the Dyson Clock Shop, which first opened its doors for business in 1875.

Tempus Fugit, meaning "Time Flies", is inscribed under the famous clock face under which lovers met in the early part of the 1900s.

The building's history is still visible today and includes two opulent "grand chandeliers" which were acquired in 1890 from a Paris exhibition using money won on a bet in Monte Carlo.

The old repair counter has also been adapted into a bar and the cashiers' office is now a private VIP dining area.

Creating an extensive halal menu, AM Kitchen & Bar blends traditional curry dishes with modern twists, and diners can expect everything from favourites chicken tikka masala and rogan josh to charcoal-fired kebabs and hand-made sizzlers.

All can be specified as mild, medium, hot or even very hot.

The contemporary restaurant marks a new addition to The Marriott Hotel's empire, being adjoined to their facilities and open to their guests, as well as catering to the public.

www.amkitchenandbar.com or call 0113 242 2626 to reserve a table.