Every once in a while a dining experience comes along that alters the way you look at food, created by a chef whose reputation, list of accolades and portfolio very much speak for themselves. At the Box Tree restaurant Michelin-starred chef Simon Gueller is offering this opportunity for enlightenment to every guest.

Simon upped sticks and took residence at the famed Box Tree in 2004 – an eatery that has kept Ilkley on the culinary map since the 1960s – and, alongside his wife Rena, now runs this excellent restaurant with the meticulous care and attention necessary to maintain the highest of standards. A firm believer in only the finest quality ingredients sourced from local growers and farmers, Simon has been able to create constantly evolving menus that utilise what is in season and readily available. The result is a modern French classical gastronomic treat from start to finish.

The restaurant itself is a clever combination of the old and the new. The latest equipment in the kitchen and highly skilled staff throughout work in perfect harmony with an interior full of antique furniture, luxurious fabrics and classic art pieces. The effect is an eclectic mix of country house opulence and classic drawing room comfort. Once settled in the well-spaced dining room, your attention is turned to the business of the menu. Expect such creations as butternut squash velouté with pancetta and pumpkin seeds, or escabeche of john dory with peach, fresh basil and toasted coriander seeds to start. A main course of seared fillet mignon and daube of aged Cumbrian beef with pomme purée, glazed vegetables and braising jus proves how simple ingredients can be treated elegantly; while line-caught sea bass is also given the royal treatment, being partnered with aubergine purée, confit tomatoes, picked garlic and a chicken, lemon and juniper jus. Round off with the likes of apricot soufflé with chocolate sauce, or a decadent arrangement of chocolate delice, Irish coffee sponge and Earl Grey tea ice cream, before partaking in an after dinner brandy, relishing the feeling of warm satisfaction. Find prix fixe menus available in the evenings from Tuesday to Thursday, and on Friday and Saturday lunchtimes. Both menus showcase a choice of three dishes per course, giving diners options from a spectrum of flavours and ingredients. Expect the likes of pan-seared yellowfin tuna Niçoise, confit duck leg with pomme purée, and warm chocolate fondant. A Sunday lunch menu is also available.

The Box Tree specialises in private dining, offering bespoke menus of up to six courses. Whether your event requires the intimacy of the private dining room, or can be accommodated in one of the interconnecting rooms within the main restaurant, Simon and the team can capably cater for you. Box Tree Events is the restaurant’s latest venture, allowing guests to experience Simon’s first-class cuisine at their chosen venue. With one of the most extensive wine lists in The North and a menu that is as exciting as it is carefully created, the Michelin-starred Box Tree is nothing short of exquisite.