We’re about to be blessed with one of the UK’s favourite brunch spots – and we couldn’t be more excited.
We were absolutely chuffed when we heard the news that Federal – a brunch institution across the Pennines in Manchester – is coming to Leeds. With their first Yorkshire café set to open soon on 34 Boar Lane, we caught up with one of the founders, Emily Ribiero, to find out more about what hungry locals can expect.
Federal is no newcomer – this laidback dining spot first opened in Manchester in 2014 and has since won over crowds of fans, with four outlets now in the city. Inspired by the neighbourhood cafés in Australia and New Zealand, its aim was to serve up delicious dishes and brilliant brews all within a wonderful atmosphere.
Credit: Federal Cafe
Emily told us how it all started with a simple idea – ”to bring a slice of Antipodean-style café culture to the North”. She added: “We wanted to create a space where coffee, brunch and genuine hospitality came together. Somewhere relaxed, vibrant and always welcoming. Over the years, we’ve grown from a small corner spot in the Northern Quarter to multiple cafes across Manchester and now we’re excited to bring that same energy to Leeds.”
You’ll be able to find their new venue on 34 Boar Lane, spanning 1,500 square feet and seating up to 70 guests. Emily told us they chose this venue for their first Yorkshire opening because of Leeds’ “buzzing food and drink scene”. She said: “We’ve had our eye on the city for a while. This particular venue felt right; central, full of character and with enough space to create the Federal vibe properly”.
“We’ll be giving the space a Federal glow-up: light, bright and filled with greenery, with warm wood, pops of colour and a touch of industrial character,” Emily added. “It’ll be modern but cosy. Perfect for long brunches, catching up with mates or just grabbing a coffee and watching the world go by.”
Credit: Federal Cafe
But the menu is the main event here. For food, you can expect a proper brunch made right. Whether you’re a meat eater, veggie or vegan, they have you covered with everything from eggs Benedict to breakfast sandwiches, and the halloumi and shrooms dish that has hit legendary status in Manchester. “Personally, I’d say don’t miss the French toast if you’ve got a sweet tooth, or the halloumi & ‘shrooms if you’re after savoury,” Emily said.
And to wash it down? There’s expertly crafted teas and coffees, fresh juice and even a selection of alcoholic drinks, with wine, beer and cocktails all on offer. We personally can’t wait to try their canned iced matcha, which has been drawing the crowds in Manchester.
“For us, it’s not just about the food and coffee, it’s about how you feel when you’re here,” Emily added. Federal’s ‘Sunny Side Service’ mantra means they want every guest to leave feeling better than when they arrived.
Credit: Federal Cafe
“We put a lot of care into creating warm, genuine hospitality. The team makes you feel welcome straight away, the food is indulgent but made with quality ingredients and the coffee is taken seriously without being intimidating. Federal is more than a café; it’s a place people feel part of.”
Federal is due to open on 34 Boar Lane later this autumn.
