Leicester Restaurant Week: dough WHAT

Leicester Restaurant Week is back! 17-23 October ‘brings together the best restaurants in Leicester, for a week of celebration of all the amazing cuisines, dishes and dining experiences’ that the city has to offer.

The Venue

dough WHAT opened up earlier this year in the heart of the city centre (King St is located right at the bottom of New Walk – always a pleasant walk from campus, especially at this time of year.) The independent venue is currently ranked in the top three restaurants in Leicester on Tripadvisor so, naturally, expectations were automatically high when we were invited down for coverage.

It is evident that no corners are cut or expenses spared on the dining experience: all dough is prepared on site daily, every Neapolitan pizza is individually hand-stretched and stone-baked, and ingredients are prepared fresh. This effort does not go unnoticed; quality time and investment certainly translates into quality food.

They also cater incredibly well to various dietary requirements. As a vegetarian, quite used to the limited choices of Margherita and maybe a couple of vegetable options, I was impressed with the breadth of selection offered. Several dishes across the starters, mains and desserts can be made with vegan alternatives, and all of their pizzas can be made gluten-free too. And pastas and salads are on the menu if pizza isn’t your thing.

The venue itself boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, catering to families and students alike, while still maintaining an ambience suitable for a slightly more formal, date scenario too. Personally, I’m a huge fan of the pizza-related puns littered across the walls: a nice touch which only adds further to the great vibes created here.

The Food

The food really does speak for itself but the standout has to be the Nutella pizza. I’m not sure what I was expecting from this dish, but it certainly exceeded any preconceived notions of what a sweet pizza looks like.

Additionally, because I know I’m writing for students here, it must be noted that I have never had a next-day pizza taste so good and retain its form so well – a credit to the freshness of the food preparation process.

The Deals

dough What are offering five great deals throughout Restaurant Week, split across four different price points.

For just £5, you can enjoy the Grab & Go deal which includes a fresh sandwich and coffee. Perfect for a quick bite during the day or if you’re in a rush.

The do-ugh Lunch is next – for £10, pick up a pizza with a soft drink, coffee or glass of house wine between midday and 4pm.

In the do-ugh IT 2 course deal, you can share a starter and dessert – with a pizza each – for £15 per person.

There is a family deal available for £20 and, for the same price, you can indulge in the do-ugh WHAT Experience which comprises of a three course meal with a welcome drink!

Full details on all venues participating can be found on the Leicester Restaurant Week website.

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Ella is a postgraduate student and English BA graduate, studying MA Digital Media & Society. She enjoys keeping up with pop culture and is particularly interested in the relationship between media consumption and mental health. Find her on Instagram here: @ellasophiej

(Note – this was an invited visit as part of Leicester Restaurant Week coverage)