This week, we were invited to help launch the new Wishing Tree Terrace at Issho, Leeds.

In true ‘blink and you’d miss it’ fashion, Issho sits atop the swanky Victoria Gate Arcade in Leeds city centre. With panoramic views of the metropolitan skyline, the clever people behind this Japanese bar and restaurant have launched their Wishing Tree Terrace.

Inspired by the Japanese festival, Tanabata, visitors are encouraged to write some of their deepest wishes on a paper tag and tie this to one of the wishing trees both in the bar and on the terrace. In Japan, these are usually bamboo trees that will carry the wishes as they grow to take them beyond our world.

To celebrate the opening of this gorgeous new terrace, Issho asked us to come along and try their new cocktail menu. Having collaborated with Roku gin, the bar team, lead by Jack Massey, have cooked up some beautiful seasonal cocktails with Roku gin as their main ingredient.

Inspired by the four seasons, the respective cocktails are a whistle-stop tour of Japan’s ever-changing and varied environment throughout the year.

The Netsu-Jin cocktail is a fresh and delicate tipple that welcomes in the new life of spring. With a hint of sugar syrup and notes of orange and ginger, this light drink is perfect for a refreshing start to an evening.

Next up is the Murasaki, a fruity burst of summer in a cup. This is a flavour packed cocktail with notes of Lemongrass, Lychee, Ginger and Blueberries – to name a few!

If you’re looking for something a little more autumnal, the Okashi will be right up your street. Served hot, this sloe gin and apple juice mix is enough to entice you out of the harsh colder weather to warm your cockles.

Finally, the Arekisandā is every sweet-tooth lover’s dream. The wintery blend is made from marshmallow infused Roku gin, of course, as well as Crème de Cocao, Sugar and Cinnamon. Basically, you’re looking at Christmas in a glass – with an elegant twist.

Not only were the cocktails beautiful but so was the bar. The addition of

the dreamy wishing trees really gives the bar that ‘Instagram’ worthy look that sets Issho apart from the rest.

We were also treated to some canapés while we were there which meant we got a taste of some of the delicious food on offer too.

If you’re looking for a classy night out in Leeds, Issho is an absolute must. So, grab your friends and head on over for some stunning cocktails and the chance for a cheeky Instagram photo opportunity too.

Issho, 3rd Floor Rooftop, Victoria Gate, George Street, Leeds, LS2 7AU

www.issho-restaurant.com

@IsshoLDS

Author

Northern girl Laura is the epitome of a true entrepreneur. Laura’s spirit for adventure and passion for people blaze through House of Coco. She founded House of Coco in 2014 and has grown it in to an internationally recognised brand whilst having a lot of fun along the way. Travel is in her DNA and she is a true visionary and a global citizen.

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