Awesome New Openings in Leeds in 2023

There have been loads of new openings in 2023. So many, in fact, that you may have missed a few…

2023 is now over and the amount of new openings we’ve seen in Leeds has been incredible, with even more in the pipeline for 2024. There’s everything from renowned steak restaurants to fine dining deliciousness, karaoke bars to acclaimed pizzerias. But that’s just the start, so without further ado, let us introduce you to the new openings from the past 12 months you need to check out.

Flat Iron

Steak lovers rejoice! A new steak restaurant has arrived in Leeds, and it’s a real destination for carnivores. Flat Iron has opened its doors in the former Byron Burger spot in the old Church Institute building on Albion Street back in November. Their motto is ‘great steak for everyone’ and boy do they live up to it. The menu is small but mighty, and the main event is the Flat Iron Steak. It’s tender and juicy and will set you back just £14! Order it with a side of beef dripping chips, bone marrow mash or creamed spinach.

Flat Iron, 9a Lands Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AW.

DMC Brewery

The UK’s first ginger beer brewery has arrived in Leeds. Formerly based in Wakefield, DMC Brewery moved into two railway units near Munro House on the edge of Leeds city centre, and brought a whole host of their artisanal alcoholic drinks with them. They have four resident ginger beers for you to choose from, all made in the archway across from the bar. But that’s not all – they have unusual cocktails, guest beers and mead bombs, but our favourite has to be the two-pint mead served in a Viking drinking horn!

DMC Brewery & Taproom, 78 & 79 Railway Street, Off Marsh Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS9 8HB.

Northern Market

Northern Monk and Falafel Guys came together in 2023 to bring us a brand new beer and food hall in the heart of Leeds. You can find Northern Market in the former Assembly Underground space on Great George Street – and what a find it is! Firstly, it’s beer heaven, with Northern Monk’s 10 taps and four cask beer lines making it every beer lover’s idea of paradise. And then there’s the food, with four vendors to choose from serving everything from falafel wraps to burgers, pizza and bao buns.

The Northern Market, 12 Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AL.

Pizza Pilgrims

Perfectly cooked Neapolitan pizzas, wacky interiors and a giant pink flamingo – that’s Pizza Pilgrims! It opened its doors in the former Beer Hawk venue on Boar Lane in 2023, ready to feed the hungry folk of Leeds with their acclaimed pizza pies. They’ve brought a boat load of unusual toppings with them, from spaghetti carbonara to hot dog and French fries, all loaded on top of their pillowy-crusted Neapolitan pizza. Still got room? Check out the giant pink flamingo that makes soft serve ice cream.

Pizza Pilgrims, 16 Boar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6EN.

Alley Cats

A local favourite returned to the streets of Chapel Allerton in 2023. It was only September when Alley Cats announced it was closing for good, but by November, this much-loved local haunt was saved by local legends North Brewing Co. Their takeover was music to everyone’s ears and while the owners might be new but the venue will remain the same – a music-obsessed hangout serving incredible grilled cheese sarnies, but now with added craft beer excellence as North’s finest brews pour from the taps.

Alley Cats, 38 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4LA.

Cinnabon

Can you smell that? It’s the tempting scents of freshly baked pastries and a hint of cinnamon flowing through the air. Why? Well, American bakery Cinnabon opened their second venue in Leeds last year and this one can found in the heart of the city centre. And they’ve brought all manner of cinnamon based treats with them, including their iconic sticky cinnamon rolls. As well as the original, they come in all manner of favourites – will you go for the Choco Bon, Caramel Pecan or the Lotus Biscoff?

Cinnabon, 15 Commercial Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AL.

Fluffy Fluffy

Oh-so-wobbly pancakes have landed in Leeds, with the arrival of Fluffy Fluffy! They’ve brought their Japanese-style soufflé pancakes to the city centre, taking over the former Barburrito on The Headrow. One thing’s for sure, they aren’t short of sweet treats for you to indulge in. They have everything from favourites like Nutella and banana and Biscoff, to more unexpected flavours like Tiramisu and Crème Brûlée on the menu. Wash the perfect pancakes down with a latte, frappé, iced lemonade or soda.

Fluffy Fluffy, 62 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 8EQ.

The Cheesy Living Co.

A whole load of cheesy goodness has arrived in Leeds’ suburbs. The Cheesy Living Co have taken over The Pantry in Roundhay, spreading their cheese and charcuterie delights across multiple floors – and yes, there’s a cafe! By day, this is a wonderful little spot where you can grab lunch and enjoy a coffee, but by night it comes alive with tonnes of cheesy events – fondue we’re looking at you. But don’t panic if you love their Corn Exchange venue, its doors will remain firmly open.

The Cheesy Living Co., 478 Roundhay Road, Roundhay, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 2HU.

Sonder

Lifestyle, interiors and great coffee, all neatly brought together under one roof – it can only be Sonder. The unique store can be found in Grand Arcade and is the perfect spot to shop, work and relax. Their love for interior design is apparent from the moment you step foot inside. But it’s more than just a pretty space, it’s filled with Japanese-inspired pieces by local artists that you can take home. Whilst you shop, sip on a coffee and tuck into a scrumptious cake – the Oreo Ball is to die for, trust us.

Sonder, 27-28 Grand Arcade, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.

Venue

Venue is the ultimate place to eat, drink and be entertained in Horsforth. And it all started with a casual chat between the local legends behind Horsforth Brewery, The Tavern and Eden Bar & Kitchen. So, what can you expect? Well, you won’t be short of great pints with Horsforth Brewery’s brews and familiar pours on offer. And with Slap & Pickle in the kitchen, banging burgers, loaded fries and chicken wings await you. They also have a jam-packed calendar of live events, so you can really make an evening of it.

Venue, 8-10 Town Street, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4RJ.

BaoBros23

Fancy yourself some tasty Chinese street food? You’re in luck, as BaoBros23 have opened up their third venue in Leeds city centre. You can find their new spot inside Archie’s on Granary Wharf, and they’re serving all manner of Asian treats. On the menu, you’ll find everything from their famous bao dogs – picture a hotdog, but instead of bread it’s a bao bun – to crispy chicken and loaded fries. And pizza lovers don’t stress, the delicious sourdough Archie’s pizzas that have made them such a favourite are staying put too.

BaoBros23, Archie’s Arches V & W, The Dark Arches, Granary Wharf, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4BR.

HAMA

Come together with loved ones and grill delicious Korean meats at this restaurant in Roundhay. HAMA have taken over the former Chophaus Steakhouse in Oakwood and transformed it into an all you can eat BBQ buffet. They might sound familiar, that’s because they already have one restaurant in the Merrion Centre. If you haven’t been before, it’s a real experience as you cook the food yourself. Just pick your meats, seafood and veggies, bob them on the grill in the middle of your table, then tuck in!

HAMA, Louis House, Princes Avenue, Oakwood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 2FA.

Galleria

A new wood-fired grill restaurant has opened at Project House. After much anticipation, Galleria has opened its doors – and it’s worth the wait! It starts with breakfast, with stuffed hash browns, fiery huevos rancheros and flaky pastries, paired with North Star coffees. Then lunch comes along and it’s time to tuck into incredible flatbreads loaded with meat and veggies. But it comes alive at teatime, where you can expect more treats, like their wood-fired chicken, butterhead salad and chard with house ricotta.

Galleria, Project House, Armley Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2DR.

Chance & Counters

Expect never ending fun at this new late-night board game cafe. Chance & Counters took over the former Yard & Coop spot on Merrion Street, and transformed it into a gamer’s paradise. They’ve got four venues across the country with the first opening in Bristol, but this will be their first up north – and what better place than Leeds? With over 500 games, from family favourites to unusual titles, it’s a gamer’s dream. And they’re serving it with a side of comfort food, craft beer and cracking cocktails.

Chance & Counters, 6-8 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.

Olive Tree Brasserie

A stylish Greek restaurant has arrived in Leeds city centre. Olive Tree Brasserie has quickly settled into its new home on South Parade, in the former Stockdale’s building. They’ve transformed it with statement light fixtures, rustic furniture and a giant olive tree. When it comes to the food, they do an incredible meze lunch with Dolmades, Harissa Falafel and Aubergine Fritters on the menu. As well as traditional dishes with a modern twist, from Moussaka and Lamb Kleftico to Greek salads.

Olive Tree Brasserie, 8 South Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5QX.

Suki

Love sushi? You’ll love Suki. This is the new sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurant in the heart of Holbeck on Water Lane. It’s only small, but it’s perfectly formed, the minimal decor provides the ideal setting for tucking into a medley of east Asian delights. But where will you start? The sushi, of course. This is their speciality, from crunchy prawn rolls to maki roll platters. Not feeling the fish? No panic, there’s Japanese classics galore, whether you fancy chicken katsu, teriyaki chicken or one of their bento boxes.

Suki, 111 Water Lane, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 5WD.

Trad Collective

The much-loved sustainable fashion and lifestyle shop has a new home. Trad Collective made their mark in Headingley, but this year they’ve made the big move from the suburbs to the city centre on Vicar Lane, just across from Victoria Quarter. While it might have a new address, it remains the same sustainable fashion store that’s full of upcycled treasures – from dresses to shirts, bags to accessories, all their creations are made by hand. Got a busted zip? Or need something taken in? Use their tailoring service!

Trad Collective, 80 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7JH.

La Grande

This could be your new favourite Italian restaurant. La Grande opened their doors on Kirkstall Road this year and have brought a boat-load of traditional dishes with them. To start, tuck into bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, arancini filled with bolognese and of course, garlic bread. And they’ve got all your favourite mains, from a classic margarita and mushroom risotto to creamy carbonara and lasagne. Pair your pick with craft beers and coffees, but if you’ve got room for dessert, make sure you try their terrific tiramisu.

La Grande, 68-70 Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3JG.

Silver’s Deli

You’ve never had a sandwich quite like the ones you get at Silver’s Deli before. They opened this year and they’re changing the sarnie game, one butty at a time. You can find them and their incredible sandwiches on Stanningley Road in Bramley. Come at breakfast for the ultimate bacon or egg and cheese bap, or run down at lunch for their famous salt beef or a classic chicken and bacon club. You can also get great coffee and the most decadent cakes – seriously, they are every chocoholic’s idea of heaven!

Silver’s Deli, 268 Stanningley Road, Bramley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS13 3BS.

Daniella Draper

The popular jewellery brand opened its seventh UK store in Leeds in 2023. Daniella Draper’s new shop is inside Victoria Quarter, bringing a whole load of long-lasting jewellery with them. Each piece is lovingly made by hand in their Lincolnshire workshop, and has been since 2009. Whether you want a necklace to wear every day, or a statement pair of earrings, you’ll be sure to find something you love here. Better yet, each piece is made from 100% recycled solid gold and sterling silver.

Daniella Draper, Unit 20, Victoria Quarter, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6BE.

Bison

One of the best steakhouses in Leeds has expanded. Bison already has one restaurant on Dewsbury Road, but this year saw them open a second Leeds spot on Roundhay Road – and it’s all about the burgers. You can expect a patty-and-bun loving menu, with everything from an Angus with lettuce, red onion, tomato and cheese to the Big Stack with pulled lamb, beef pate and chipotle. They do some cracking chicken burgers too, like the Ringo with a peri peri fillet, onion rings and BBQ sauce.

Bison, 325 Roundhay Road, Harehills, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 4HT.

Caf Farsley

A new espresso bar and deli has arrived in Farsley. Caf has taken over a former Chinese takeaway shop and transformed it into the perfect little cafe. The venue might be small but it isn’t short of great food and drink, from speciality coffees to deli sandwiches and sweet treats. For sarnies, choose from chicken, falafel and salmon sandwiched between focaccia. Or treat yourself to a croissant, cannoli or kronut – a croissant and donut rolled into one tasty treat! Top tip – the lemon meringue kronut is especially good.

Caf Farsley, 80 Old Road, Farsley, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 5BN.

Monica Vinader

Jewellery obsessed? Then you need to check out Monica Vinader’s new Leeds store. The opening is a big deal, as it’s the first stand-alone shop for the designer jewellery brand outside of London! They’re all about luxury jewellery at accessible prices, crafting iconic earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings for everyday wear. Want a new piercing? Or want a piece you never have to take off? You’re in luck, as they have piercing, welding, engraving and monogramming services.

Monica Vinader, 1 Queen Victoria Street, Victoria Quarter, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6BD.

Pour Moi

This new shop does everything from luxury lingerie to nightwear and supportive swimwear. That’s right, Pour Moi has arrived in Victoria Gate and is on a mission make you feel fabulous and confident. They’ve come a long way since the launch of their first bra in 2005 and so has their product range. Whether you need an underwear essential, supportive swimwear or even sportswear, you can count on Pour Moi. If that wasn’t enough, they also do clothing, from going out dresses to everyday tops and more.

Pour Moi, 18-19 Victoria Gate, Victoria Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7AU.

King of Gyros

All hail Tavassoli’s gyros! The Greek cafe and grill in Leeds city centre opened a new spot in Beeston Park for folk who can’t get enough of their delicious Mediterranean street food. Whether you stuff your gyro full of halloumi, chicken or pork, you’re in for a real treat. But if you really want to push the boat out, why not opt for their gyro pizza? It comes topped with a medley of meat, cheese and veggies on a Greek pitta base. If that’s not your thing, they also sell tasty burgers, loaded fries, Greek salads and more.

Kings of Gyros, 15 Ring Rd Middleton, Beeston, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 5LG.

Townhouse

Getting your nails done has got even more luxurious with the arrival of Townhouse. They have nail salons up and down the country, but they chose Leeds as just their second home in the north. Whether you have a special occasion coming up, or just want to treat yourself to a bit of glamour, Townhouse will make sure you leave with pristine and elegant nails. They do everything from full gel extensions to mani-pedis and since it’s already incredible popular, you might even bump into a local celeb!

Townhouse, Victoria Gate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7AR.

Build-a-Bear Workshop

You can now create your own furry friend in Leeds city centre. Build-a-Bear Workshop can already be found in White Rose Shopping Centre, but there’s now a second shop in Trinity. To start, all you have to do is pick your bear, fill them up with stuffing before you get down to customisation. You can choose everything from what they wear to how they smell and sound. Want to make it even more memorable? Add a voice recording to your teddy bear. It’s the perfect way to treat your kids, your partner or even yourself!

Build-a-Bear Workshop, Trinity Leeds, 27 Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AT.

Joe Browns

Joe Browns were born and bred in Leeds, so a shop in their home city has been a long time coming. And this year it finally happened, their first brick-and-mortars store in White Rose Centre. The store houses an expansive range of men’s and women’s clothing, from comfy causals and chunky knits to statement prints and party wear. Shoes and accessories too, but they also have a stylish homeware range, with everything from fun and funky bedding to quirky mugs and unique furniture.

Joe Browns, White Rose Shopping Centre, Dewsbury Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 8LU.

Calilo

A taste of Greece right here in Leeds. There’s hidden foodie gem on Church Street in South Leeds and it’s called Calilo. The new Mediterranean bar and grill opened early this year, and is cooking up good, honest Greek cuisine. Glorious gyros, flavoursome falafel and marvellous moussaka are just a few of the tasty dishes you can tuck into. Got room for dessert? They’ve got some gouge-worthy puds, from Baklava soaked in sweet honey to their signature rich chocolate cake.

Calilo, 14 Beechwood Shopping Centre, Church Street, Woodlesford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8RE.

Lounge

Luxury, stylish and modern – it can only be Lounge. The UK-based company has three shops already, in London, Bristol and Manchester, but Leeds will be their first home in Yorkshire. And it all started back in 2015, when a husband-and-wife team created the Triangle Set Design. There’s been a lot of growth since then, and you can now shop a range of bras, bottoms, intimate sets, apparel and swimwear – all of which are designed to make you feel comfortable and confident.

Lounge, Trinity Leeds, Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AT.

Tamatanga

Great Indian food? Check. Laid-back vibes? Check. Tamatanga ticks all the right boxes. The Indian restaurant opened back in June on The Headrow, in the former George’s Great British Kitchen. And they have brought fresh, flavoursome and fabulous food with them. It’s a menu full of hearty and wholesome dishes, from curries and biryani bowls to chaats and thali plates. Wash it down with a pint of their signature Tama ale or a mango and chilli mojito. Got room for dessert? Try their pistachio kulfi or gulab jamun.

Tamatanga, 52-54 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 8TL.

Maki & Ramen

A household name up in Scotland with give Edinburgh sites and another in Glasgow, Maki & Ramen has headed south to end 2023 with a bang. They’ve brought their delicious take on Japanese cuisine with them, taking over the former Pret A Manger on Bond Street. The venue is all stripped-back wood and neon signs, but you come for the food, all laid out by renowned ramen chef Teddy Lee. The miso ramen is a must, but don’t ignore other staples like the karaage, nigiri and hosomaki.

Maki & Ramen, 32 Bond Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5BQ.

Wendy’s

The American fast-food giant has returned to Leeds, bringing their iconic square burgers with them. Wendy’s can be found on the corner of Briggate and Headrow, and guess what, it’s smack bang next door to their old restaurant that closed back in 1999. As you’d expect, their square burgers take centre stage, made with British beef and loaded with cheese, pickles and onions. But it’s not just burgers, oh no, they’ve got some top notch sides too – bacon smothered fries, baked spuds and chilli con carne to name a few.

Wendy’s, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6NP.

Olive & Thai

Love Thai food? Then this restaurant will be right up your street. Olive & Thai is a cosy new eatery and it sits next door to a popular brunch spot in Queens Arcade – but there’s more. It’s not just neighbours with Olive & Rye, it’s actually run by the same owners, who wanted to bring their passion for cooking Thai food to life. And the food doesn’t disappoint. Start with veggie spring rolls, chicken satay or stunning summer rolls, before moving onto a delicious Thai green curry, pad Thai, fiery pad ka pro or whatever else catches your eye on the menu.

Olive & Thai, 16 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.

Paria

Need a pitstop halfway through a mammoth ride? This new cafe & cycling shop in Chapel Allerton is the place to go. The journey started when owner Sam decided to set up his own cycling apparel brand. But it didn’t stop there, the business grew and 2023 was the year that Paria opened. Not only is the space cool and relaxing, but there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs. As you check out the cycling merch, grab yourself a coffee and cake – you’ll need the caffeine kick for the next leg of your cycle.

Paria Shop & Coffee, 180 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NZ.

Empire Cafe

Empire Cafe is a new dining hotspot on one of Leeds’ lesser known streets. You’ll find the hidden gem tucked away on Fish Street, and it’s all cosy corners and low lighting. They’re known for their famous chicken rotisserie with crispy roasties cooked in the juices, but they do some amazing small plates too. From crab toast with meat piled high and spam pakoras fried to perfection to a delicious hoisin duck éclair, you won’t be short of choice. Wash it down with pint of Guinness or a spicy Bloody Mary.

Empire Cafe, 6 Fish Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DB.

Slim Chickens

This one’s for all you fried chicken lovers. Slim Chickens is an entire restaurant dedicated to the good stuff, and you can find them on the top floor of Trinity Leeds, where Carluccio’s used to be. Scoff a chicken tender, nibble on a wing or bite into a beast of a burger. But if you really want a feast, go for the Buffalo Blue Loaded Fries – chicken tenders, buffalo and blue cheese sauce and spring onions piled onto fries. Better yet, you get a bottomless soda with every meal, or you can add a shake for £2 more!

Slim Chickens, 413 Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5AY.

TADA

Not long back, you would’ve struggled to find great Japanese food in Headingley, but not anymore. TADA opened their doors in summer 2023 on Otley Road, and they are the first Japanese restaurant in the area. You’ll find a sushi bar downstairs serving everything from maki, sashimi and nigiri – if you love salmon and crab, try their Mt. Fuji roll. Head upstairs for ramen, yakitori, katsu or the real star of the show, their bento boxes. They’ve got some cracking Japanese beers, whiskeys, sakes and cocktails too.

TADA, 49 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3AB.

Ma-Hé

If you love Indian food, then you need to add Ma-Hé to your list. The restaurant can be found at the Merrion Centre, in the former Arnold’s and Marco’s Italian, and is serving authentic dishes from five coastal regions of India – yum! Whet your appetite with appetisers, from Goan lamb ribs and crispy okra to their sea bass pollichathu. For mains, tuck into everything from spinach pappu to chicken gassi and lobster moilee. When it comes to drinks, they’ve got their own lager and loads of Indian-inspired cocktails.

Ma-Hé, 59 Wade Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8NJ.

Zaviya

Wellington Street’s Wolfox closed down in 2023, but it’s not entirely gone. The main dining room will be partially replaced by Shabab in 2024, but the other half of the venue is back open as Zaviya, from the same new owners. But knowing how much locals loved Wolfox’s coffee, you can still get it here as both hot drinks and in coffee beans to take away. In fact, the new cafe is carrying on where Wolfox left off, also offering a medley of tempting bakery, brunch and lunch options, to eat in or to go.

Zaviya, 2 – 4 Britannia Streett, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2DZ.

The Leeds People’s Gym

This is no ordinary gym. This year saw The Leeds People’s Gym open its doors on Mabgate, with one big aim – to make exercise enjoyable for everyone. In the basement, you’ll find a free weights and resistance area with mood lighting for a cosier feel. Each piece of kit has a QR code which links to a video tutorial and you can even get first dibs on equipment with the ‘I’m next’ hooks. On the ground floor, there’s a mirror and chalkboard full of uplifting affirmations, as well as a cardio area and private studio.

The Leeds People’s Gym, 49 Mabgate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS9 7DR.

Three’s a Crowd

Great pints, delicious dishes and a warm atmosphere – this new gastropub has it all. Three’s a Crowd have taken over one of the city’s best loved pubs, The Reliance on North Street. Drinks-wise, they’ve got your favourite cask and keg beers as well as over 100 wines. Onto food, you’ll find an ever changing menu full of drool-worthy dishes, but the star of the show is their legendary Sunday roasts, from honey and balsamic gammon to rare breed beef rump and one of the best nut roasts in town.

Three’s a Crowd, 76-78 North Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7PN.

Blue Pavilion

Luxury cuisine, lavish interiors and mesmerising live entertainment, it can only be Blue Pavilion. It could be the most luxurious Asian restaurant in Leeds, and it comes from the brains behind Blue Sakura. We could go on and on about the incredible interiors, but it’s the food that’s the star. Kick off with king prawn toast or wagyu beef dumplings, before tucking into Iberico pork, Hong-Kong-style New Zealand lobster or Shanghai mapo tofu. Their cocktails don’t disappoint either, shaking up your faves with an Asian twist.

Blue Pavilion, 90 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8LW.

Record Plant

Avid vinyl collector? You could be missing out on one of the best record shops in Leeds! Record Plant is tucked away among many other hidden gems in Sunny Bank Mills. And it’s quite literally bursting at the seams with vinyl treasures and cool music memorabilia. Flick through racks upon racks of shiny black discs, from the 1960s right through to the 2000s. They’re not short of genres either, with everything from pop, rock and indie to jazz, reggae, blues and so much more!

Record Plant, Sunnybank Mills, 1, Old Engine, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 5UJ.

K-Cube

Fancy a sing song with your pals? Well, lucky for you, there’s a new premium karaoke bar in Leeds. K-Cube can be found above Blue Pavilion at the top of Merrion Street, and it’s the perfect spot to channel your inner Madonna or belt out a ballad by Whitney Houston. They’ve got six private rooms that are serving party vibes until the early hours of the morning. Prices start at £12 per person, per hour, with a seasonal food platter thrown in, so it’s affordable for everyone. Best start thinking about what you want to sing!

K-Cube, 82 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8LW.

Canvas Yard

There’s a new creative and cultural base in Leeds. This year saw two developers, Moda Living and New Citizens, team up with the guys behind Chow Down to create the biggest open-air events space in the city. You’ll find Canvas Yard in Holbeck and you won’t miss it, as it spans 103,000-square-feet of formerly empty space. The venue will be brought to life again in 2024, with an exciting calendar music, art and sporting events. May will see the return of Hacienda Open Air, a one-day event jam packed with DJ sets.

Canvas Yard, Trent Street, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 9NP.

The Bootlegger

Be transported back to the Roaring Twenties at this new speakeasy-style bar. The Bootlegger is a cool cocktail bar that opened its door this year on Park Row, in the former Thewlis venue. If you’re craving a cocktail, this is the place for you. The bar is mad for them, with more than 90 concoctions for you to choose from, many of which are inspired by the prohibition era. There’s plenty of great music too, with jazz, swing and blues spinning until late, so you’ll find yourself dancing away until the wee hours of the morning.

The Bootlegger, 18 Park Row, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5JA.

Functional Drinks Club

Ditch the booze at this new temperance bar in Leeds. Functional Drinks Club is a new alcohol-free bar in the heart of Otley and is brimming with non-alcoholic tipples. You can expect everything from booze-free beers, wines and spirits to CBD drinks and, their speciality, alcohol-free kombucha. They even have a zero waste station, so you can take whatever you don’t finish home with you. But the club isn’t just for people who don’t drink, it’s for anyone who wants to live more consciously.

Functional Drinks Club, 17 Manor Square, Otley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS21 3AP.

Homeboy Pizza

Whether you prefer your pizza Detroit style or the Neapolitan way, it doesn’t matter with Homeboy Pizza around. They’ve set up shop in the beloved Roland’s bar on Call Lane to dish up some of the mightiest pizzas in Leeds. You can’t go wrong with the Marge, their take on a classic margherita, but the John Arn Harissa is the must-try here, a lip-puckering medley of tomato and harissa aubergine with red onion, cheese and basil & sumac breadcrumbs. Dip it into the kimchi honey sauce, dreams will come true.

Homeboy Pizza, Roland’s, 39 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.

Melodie 71

Back in the summer, a new European-style cafe bar opened in Kirkstall – and it’s cool as heck. Melodie 71 brings together good drinks and good music. Get ready for hand-picked wine and spirits, alongside a stellar line-up of craft beers and classic taps pouring Guinness and the like. They have a rotating line-up of top-tier DJs coming in on a regular basis to soundtrack your evenings, but there’s even more to look forward to in the coming months as they add a food offering to their arsenal.

Melodie 71, 71 Commercial Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3AT.

Farmhouse

With one hugely successful restaurant in Harrogate under their belts, it’s no surprise Farmhouse made Leeds their next destination in 2023. They’ve taken over the old Ask Italian on Lands Lane with chef Tom Hunter teaming up with founder Jordan Aspinall to create a wholesome all-day eatery in the heart of Leeds. They’ll take you from breakfast to dinner with a medley of tasty eats, from Biscoff pancakes to fish tacos, jackfruit katsu curry and plenty of juicy burgers stacked high with beef or chicken.

Farmhouse, 20-22 Lands Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LB.

Six by Nico

If you want a fine dining experience at an affordable price, Six by Nico is the new restaurant in Leeds for you. They’ve brought their famous six-course tasting menus to a stylish dining room on East Parade, and all for just £39 per person, with drinks pairings available for an extra £30 each. But what can you look forward to? The menu changes every six weeks to a different theme, so one visit you could be trying out their innovative twists on fish and chip shop fare, the next tucking into six courses inspired by the street food world.

Six by Nico, 9 East Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2AJ.

The Hidden Village

The Hidden Village is the new one-stop-shop for families in Leeds. This is a children’s role play village, cafe and boutique toy shop, all rolled into one. It’s transformed the old Brasserie Forty 4 venue into a family-focused space where your little ones can play to their hearts’ content, whether they’re practising building a house or pretending to look after animals. There’s a shop where you can pick up eco-friendly toys, but you can also take five and settle down with a brew, lunch and plenty of sweet treats.

The Hidden Village, 44 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DT.

Tartarus Taproom

The original North Brewing Co. HQ will continue its rich tradition in beer into the foreseeable future after it was taken over by the good folks at Tartarus Beers. They’ve turned it into a taproom once again, a place where they can brew their incredible small-batch craft beers, with mythical inspiration, and serve them to the thirsty masses of Leeds. Open on Fridays and Saturdays, take your pick from 11 tap lines, or check out the fridges for even more tipples, as well as prosecco, gin and wine.

Tartarus, Unit 6, Taverners Walk Industrial Estate, Sheepscar Grove, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 1AH.

Project House

The newest music, arts, and events space in Leeds opened in 2023 and it was a big one. Project House is a collaboration between some of the city’s biggest names in culture and food & drink, the Brudenell, Super Friendz (Belgrave and Headrow House) and Welcome Skate Store. They’ve transformed a 16,000-square-foot former tile warehouse into a 1,000 capacity venue, hosting a medley of events, from gigs to markets, weddings and everything in between. A refreshed outdoor space comes in 2024, while the Galleria restaurant is now open.

Project House, Armley Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2DR.

Bird & Blend

If you love tea, your very own paradise opened in Victoria Quarter in 2023. Bird & Blend is a boutique like no other in Leeds – it’s manned by their expert tea mixologists who are there to take you through their incredible Tea Wall. It’s stocked with over 100 different blends of loose leaf teas, ready and waiting for you take home for perfect at-home cuppas. But that’s not all they’ve got – while you’re there, why not grab a brew while you browse? There’s everything from tea lattes to iced tea to go!

Bird & Blend, Unit 42 Queen Victoria Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6BE.

The Whisky Shop

Have you got room in your drinks cabinet? You’ll need it because The Whisky Shop has arrived in Leeds and it’s a must-visit for lovers of a wee dram. They’re the experts in premium spirits – they already have a massive online presence and a series of shops around the UK and Europe, but now you can visit their County Arcade home in the Victoria Quarter. Get ready to pick up all manner of whiskies, including rare, hard-to-find bottles, alongside a tasty line-up of gin, vodka, brandy, tequila and even premixed cocktails.

The Whisky Shop, 12-14 County Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6BN.

Aarti

Proof that good things come in small packages, Aarti is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of place, but the Punjabi and South Indian cuisine you’ll find within makes it well worth tracking down at its new home on Swinegate after moving from Roundhay. All the familiar Indian classics are cooked well here, from rogan josh to chicken tikka masala, but the menu rewards exploration. The dosas are a delight, the combination of coriander and mint lift the Maratha chicken and the rara gosht Punjabi sees aromatic lamb given a blast of green chilli.

Aarti, 8-12 Swinegate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4AG.

Residence

The original Cookridge venue is hugely popular, so expansion made sense for Residence – they’ve done just that, opening in Headingley in 2023. This prime spot is set up for all-day drinking and dining in a raw, stripped-back dining room. You can kick off your day with an indulgent serving of French toast or pancakes, followed by belly-filling loaded sarnies at lunch, before teatime brings tacos and burgers. Their bottomless brunch is well worth booking in for too, while you won’t go thirsty with craft beers, wine and cocktails aplenty.

Residence, 5 North Lane, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3HG.

Fearns

Head down to Leeds Dock for one of the coolest all-day eating and drinking spots in Leeds. Fearns is bright and airy, filled with Scandi furniture, but with food at its core. The kitchen is led by Jade Crawley, a creative head chef who brings together sustainability with European creativity. For breakfast, the meat-free full English is a must, while dinner promises starters like potted crayfish, followed by a five-course tasting menu. The Sunday lunch is epic and the drinks selection carefully picked.

Fearns, 4 The Boulevard, Leeds Dock, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1PZ.

Poco

Not content with Headingley and Kirkstall shops, Poco opened a third in 2023, this time in Leeds city centre. They’ve taken over a little hole-in-the-wall hatch on Lands Lane for takeaway treats. Sicilian street food is the name of the game here, from freshly made bombolone doughnuts filled with Italian custard to stuffed arancini and their classic pizza al taglio, topped with a daily-changing array of delicious combinations, like ‘nduja and ricotta. Stone-baked sarnies and the tastiest cannoli you ever did eat round things off.

Poco, Lands Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LB.

Little Leeds

Want to keep the little ones occupied? Get yourself down to Little Leeds, a new play area, cafe and shop. It’s from the same people who run The Leeds Deli in Moortown and has opened right next door as an extension of the much-loved play corner in the cafe. Little Leeds has a menu of family-friendly dishes, alongside a decent cuppa, as well as a really fun play area for the little ones to let off some energy and explore a colourful world. There’s even a shop where you can find loads of gifts for the nippers.

Little Leeds, Chelwood Drive, Moortown, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 2AT.

The Three Swords

We all love a Kirkstall Brewery pub, but have you checked out The Three Swords yet? This one is a little different to the others. Yes, it’s a beautiful place to enjoy a few drinks, decorated with the classic brew-pub style of old pub mirrors and signs, with loads of cosy corners. It’s a haven for cask lovers, but to go with your Dissolution IPA, how about a curry? They’ve teamed up with renowned restaurant Dastaan who run the kitchen under their Karobar banner, promising a medley of delicious Indian small plates.

The Three Swords, 106, 108 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4QB.

Bridge End Social

Bridge End Social is a reinvention of many a popular bar that’s called this same unit on the south side of Leeds Bridge home. Under its new guise, it’s been brought into the 21st century, firstly with food – there’s a bagel hatch to grab a bite on the go with a locally-sourced coffee, or you can sit in and share a medley of small plates or one of their platters. Next up, drinks. They know their cocktails, all the classics are present and correct, but this is a beer haven, with both keg and cask taps pouring local brews.

Bridge End Social, 24-32 Bridge End, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4DJ.

Libations Rum Distillery

Love rum? Boy, are you going to love this new arrival in Leeds in 2023. Libations is a name you might already know, they’ve enjoyed a wild ride over the past few years. Starting with a series of award-winning rums and a couple of pop-up shops, including one in Leeds city centre, they have now opened their Armley distillery to the public. You can pop by for a tour of the distillery, followed by an expertly tutored tasting and a couple of tipples. Love what you taste? Grab a bottle to go, just 40 feet from the source.

Libations Rum Distillery, Unit 9, Armley Nano Park, Pickering Street, Armley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2BJ.

Bianco Lounge

The team behind Cosy Club added another Leeds bar and restaurant to their ever-growing portfolio in 2023. This time, it’s with their Lounges concept, in the form of Bianco Lounge, at the White Rose Centre. Here you’ll find decor inspired by that of classic British pubs, cafes and restaurants, a blend of mismatched frames and rich colours, but with a laid-back vibe. But what can you get? This is an all-day affair, with pancakes for breakfast, sarnies for lunch and hearty plates of pan-continental grub for tea.

Bianco Lounge, Unit RU15, White Rose Centre, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 8LU.

Bricklebank’s

When The Mad Greek closed, Chapel Allerton lost a local favourite, but it’s now gained another. Bricklebank’s has taken its place, and it’s a dream realised for owner Adam Bricklebank. He’s worked in the industry for years but now has his own spot, and it’s dreamy. It’s an all-day affair, serving breakfast from morning until late, alongside a tempting array of salads and sandwiches later in the day. Come the evening, it’s the perfect place to visit for a glass or two, whether that’s wine, beer or cocktails.

Bricklebank’s, 14 Stainbeck Lane, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3QY.

Cafe by Hise

Cafe by Hise isn’t your standard cafe. This hidden Pudsey gem brings together British classics with Asian staples, all under one roof. You can start the day with a few fail-safes, like pancake stacks, breakfast wraps or omelettes, or mix it up with a Hong Kong-style egg and Spam sarnie. Later on, more HK-style favourites come on to the menu – we’re talking satay beef noodles, fiery chicken curries and, of course, egg and Spam noodles. Wash it down with a lemon or Hong Kong milk tea for the full experience.

Cafe by Hise, 639 Stanningley Road, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 6NB.

Bini Brew Co. Taproom

It’s only been a few years since Bini Brew Co. first started making their fine beers over in Ilkley, but expansion has come quickly to them. And rightly so, too. In 2023, they took over a 3,500-square-foot unit in Sheepscar House at the northern tip of Leeds city centre for their new brewing home and HQ. While their Ilkley taproom remains open, Leeds locals now can head to the city centre to try their epic brews, with an on-site taproom pouring their latest creations, with outdoor seating and regular events.

Bini Brew Co. Taproom, Unit 11, Sheepscar House, 15 Sheepscar Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 1AD.

Cantina at Leeds University Union

When it opened back in 2016, Cantina was the first 100% vegan eatery in Leeds and it’s still going strong, adding a new home at Leeds University Union in 2023. Get ready to tuck into an array of Cantina classics, from the cauli bites to the chick’n tenders, alongside a trio of stacked burgers and a selection of loaded fries. If you want to go all out, you can make it a meal deal with fries and a can or milkshake, while they also do a selection of smoothies. It’s a little slice of vegan heaven.

Cantina, Leeds University Union, Lifton Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JZ.

The Foundation

Meanwood Brewery is a real local success story, with a hugely popular taproom and brewery in the heart of the North Leeds suburb. In 2023, it opened its second venue and first standalone bar in the form of The Foundation in Adel, taking over the former Cranberries deli. It’s a welcoming, cosy affair, with eight taps across keg and cask, where you can get all manner of Meanwood Brewery creations, alongside a host of guest beers from their favourite breweries. They also do coffees and have pop-up eateries join them.

The Foundation, 471 Otley Road, Adel, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 4NR.

Blue Rinse

One of the leading names in vintage fashion in Leeds, Blue Rinse expanded its operations in 2023. They opened a new shop in the Merrion Centre in addition to its Call Lane HQ. It’s a massive 3,679-square-foot-unit, formerly the home of Kilo, which houses a huge selection of Blue Rinse’s hand-picked vintage clothing and accessories. You can also get your hands on their limited edition ‘Remade in England’ range, a trademark collection of upcycled and reinvented vintage clothes, as well as exclusive lines.

Blue Rinse, Merrion Centre, 57 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8NG.

Mythos

Love authentic Greek food? You’re going to love Mythos’ newest restaurant. They cut their teeth with a wonderful takeaway in Burley, but have now expanded to a full-blown dining room in the heart of Chapel Allerton. It’s full of quirky touches that’ll transport you to a Greek taverna, but the main attraction is the incredible food. A wide-ranging menu takes you from salads to souvlaki boxes, but the gyro is their speciality. Pick from halloumi, chicken and more, wrapped in a pita with all the trimmings, including oregano chips.

Mythos, 5 Steinbeck Lane, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3PJ.

Gino D’Acampo

Following a brief Leeds break after his Park Row restaurant closed, Gino D’Acampo has found a new home in the city thanks to a blossoming partnership with the Marriott Hotel. Looking out onto Boar Lane but with a Trevelyan Square entrance, Gino’s dining room is a sumptuous affair, promising a marble bar, lounge area, chicchetti bar, deli, terrace and room for 160 diners. It’s all-day dining, mostly Italian style, taking you from pancakes to risotto, pasta, pizza and classic Italian staples.

Gino D’Acampo, Marriott Hotel, 6-8 Boar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6EN.

Caballero Lounge

Another new arrival from the folk behind Cosy Club, Lounges present their new home at The Springs retail park. Caballero Lounge opened at the start of 2023, bringing with it the flavour of the British food and drink scene, both in its charming, vintage decor and its accessible, wide-ranging menu. This is an all-day kind of place, one that’s both family and dog-friendly, so you can expect a medley of brunch, lunch and dinner options, from shakshuka to start the day to steak frites for tea.

Caballero Lounge, The Springs, Thorpe Park Approach, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 8GG.

The Hideout at Harper Farm

Out towards New Farnley, you’ll find a farm that is also home to one of the coolest new coffee shops in Leeds. The Hideout is the work of Adam Stephenson who has created a charming, rustic place to take a break over a cuppa and a bite to eat. You’re guaranteed a proper cup of Joe here, with coffee from Yorkshire’s own Dark Woods, alongside a slew of homemade sweet treats. And that’s not all – you can also purchase a host of their own award-winning free-range eggs from their own the farm.

The Hideout at Harper Farm, Harper Farm Cottages, Whitehall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 6JU.

Things in Bread

Leeds sandwich shop Things in Bread has taken the city by storm since it opened up early in 2023. The sister venue of neighbours, Doh’hut, they take it back to basics with their sandwich combos, but not before making their own shokupan, or Japanese milk loaf, bread fresh every morning. There’s always a morning rush for their breakfast butties – you can’t go wrong with sausage and egg, can you? But be quick come lunch, because their hefty classics, like the BLT or tuna crunch, sell out stat, especially when they cost from just £5.

Things In Bread, 15 Boar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5EL.

If East Parade & Rooftop

How about two new openings in one? First off, IF took over the ground floor restaurant and bar of Avenue HQ’s East Parade offices, where they specialise in all things brunch. Served all day, you can chow down on everything from pancakes to burritos and benedicts, while breakfasts like granola, porridges and sarnies are available until 12pm. However, IF took over another part of the building this year too, the rooftop, which is now their terrace bar overlooking Leeds Town Hall with cocktails, craft beer and seasonal events.

If Rooftop & East Parade, 10-12 East Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2BH.

Hubb

The first nitro coffee bar opened in Leeds this year – you’ll find Hubb in SALT’s taproom on East Parade. It came after a hugely successful launch from their Dean Clough base in Halifax in the summer, and is designed to make this a dawn-to-dusk venue, a place where you can start your day with Hubb’s smooth, creamy nitro coffee, paired with freshly-baked goods, and end it with SALT’s glorious craft beers. They’ve also introduced a new sandwich menu, loaded with slow-cooked salt beef, pesto chicken breast and mozzarella & tomato.

SALT x Hubb, 27-26 East Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2AJ.

Cover image credit: © Copyright Leeds-List 2023