It’s hard to stay on top of every incredible restaurant in Leeds, but we reckon these are genuine under-the-radar-winners.
These are the kind of places that you either don’t know about, haven’t got around to trying yet or maybe even didn’t think were worth a go. Trust us, you’re missing out.
All are the kind of places where you can get unique flavours and dishes that you won’t find at the chains – the kind of stuff that you’ll rave about and will turn you into not just a regular, but a superfan. Which will you try first?
Cinnamon Kitchen
This new opening at The Queens Hotel should have all foodies feeling excited. This is Indian cuisine like nowhere else. Executive Chef Vivek Singh has crafted an innovative offering that takes your tastebuds on a culinary journey, traversing through Indian states to Yorkshire fields.
Stepping into the sleek, inviting interiors, you’ll be greeted with a vibrant menu and hospitality that’s as warm as the dishes. Timeless classics like Old Delhi butter chicken sit side-by-side with unique twists, like the lamb rogan josh shepherd’s pie. From succulent seafood to moreish desserts and tempting cocktails, everything here works in perfect balance.
Must-try: The stir-fried Chettinad shrimp starter is superbly spiced and oh-so succulent.
Cost: Starters from £6. Mains from £15.50 to £29.
Find it: Cinnamon Kitchen, The Queens Hotel, City Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 1PJ.
Wen’s
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There’s Chinese, and there’s Chinese at Wen’s. You might have tried all of the Cantonese classics at home, but the kitchen here elevates them to the next level – and they’ve got plenty of dishes you won’t find on your local takeaway menu.
The decor might be simple, but the flavours can be complex. A cold starter of sliced pork belly with garlic in chilli oil is all about the play of crunch and texture, somehow enhanced by the temperature it’s served at. Dumplings are exemplary, the Dan Dan noodles justly celebrated.
Must-try: The crispy, deep-fried whole sea bass in sweet vinegar sauce is a sensation.
Cost: Starters from £7.80 to £11.90. Mains from £12.90 to £18.80
Find it: Wen’s, 72-74 North Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7PN.
Rambuttri
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You may well have a perfectly good excuse for not having tried Rambuttri yet. After all, it has only just opened, and it’s down past the bus station. Trust us, however, it’s well worth the tiny little jaunt out of town. This place can deliver all the Thai classics with panache, but they’re pushing the envelope too.
You won’t go wrong with time-honoured gems such as crispy pork belly or a green curry, but how about the braised ox cheek in house special sauce? Thai basil pesto prawns served over spaghetti was a new one on us, but we were hooked by the invention instantly.
Must-try: The fresh pineapple and tamarind sauce really lifts the whole sea bream to the sublime.
Cost: Small plates from £6 to £13.50. Mains from £14.50 to £26.50
Find it: Rambuttri, Duke Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS9 8AG.
Haftsin
Credit: Haftsin Restaurant
Leeds isn’t awash with authentic Persian restaurants, which makes Haftsin a real must-try. While some of the dishes may seem familiar – classic starters such as hummus and baba ghanoush – there’ll be plenty of recipes and combinations you’ve never seen before.
It’s a cosy yet no-frills kind of place, perfect for a social meal. The freshly prepared kebabs are juicy and flavour-packed, while the stews are deep and stuffed with surprises that deepen the taste – dried limes in the Gheimeh of diced lamb and split yellow peas, for example.
Must-try: The Zereshk Polo is half a spring chicken in a heady stew of pistachio, almond and sweet and sour wild berries.
Cost: Kebabs are £7.95. Stews from £11.95 to £17.95. Mains £12.95 to £18.95
Find it: Haftsin, 60-62 Burley Road, Woodhouse, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS3 1JX.
Piassa
What goes for Persian cuisine in Leeds also goes for Ethiopian. Piassa will open your eyes to the flavours and textures of East African food, all dishes served with Injera, a soft, addictive flatbread made from fermented flour. It’s the perfect foil for beef cooked with butter and berber spices.
There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, while the meats are limited to lamb, beef and chicken. Savour the depth of a slow-cooked stew and temper the space with a pint of draught lager. For the full authentic vibe, they also offer a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Must-try: Awaze Tibs – Your choice of beef or lamb cubes with Ethiopian hot chilli sauce, garlic, onion and jalapeno.
Cost: Dishes are from £9 to £15.
Find it: Piassa, 83 Roundhay Road, Harehills, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 5AQ.
