From tempting tacos to sublime tequila, Madre makes a vibrant addition to Leeds’ drinking and dining scene.
A much-loved fixture in Liverpool and Manchester, we raised a glass of mezcal at the news that Madre and Salon Madre would be bringing their good vibes to Leeds. Ahead of the hotly anticipated opening in Wellington Place, we caught up with co-founder Sam Grainger to get the lowdown on what people can expect.
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The day-to-night Mexican restaurant was born out of a collaboration between Liverpool’s Belzan and London’s Breddos Tacos back in 2019, with the offering inspired by the team’s many visits to Mexico City. Sam told us that the authentic dishes take influence from the “myriad of passionate craftsmen who have spent their lives perfecting their particular metier of Mexican fare”.
“These traditions have melded in the vast, fast-paced city to create a distinct sensibility at the table or on the street. It’s this mix of flavours and techniques that makes Mexico City’s cuisine so unique and exactly what we aim to deliver in Madre.”
Madre has already established itself as a firm favourite in Manchester and Liverpool, but the Leeds opening will mark the brand’s first venue in Yorkshire. “We’ve been looking to open in Leeds for a while,” Sam explained. “It’s such a vibrant city, full of energy and creativity. We wanted to be part of that.”
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“We were after an empty shell so we could design a venue that truly feels like Madre, not one we had to fit into. The location, especially for Salon Madre, is perfect – close to the station and a great place to start or end a day out in the city.”
Step inside and you’ll instantly understand what Madre is all about. An open kitchen sits at the heart of the restaurant, inviting diners to check out the action. Booths and large tables encourage people to gather, soaking up the sights, sounds and smells inspired by the bustling eateries of Mexico City. More than just a restaurant, it’s a place where people can come together and make lasting memories.
By day, Madre is a laidback spot for leisurely lunches, but by night it transforms into a buzzy destination, serving everything from Oaxacan-inspired moles and salsas to Baja-style mariscos and Sonoran grilled meats. There’s even a raw bar element to the menu, with zesty ceviches lining up alongside ultra-fresh oysters.
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With the focus firmly placed on quality and craft, this isn’t your everyday Mexican joint. Madre’s chefs are serious about their food, so whether you’re in the mood for tacos (grab them for £7 all day, every Tuesday) or statement dishes like grilled bone marrow with salsa macha, you’re guaranteed to leave satisfied. It’s bold, feel-good food that’s designed to be shared, so round up your pals and order a feast.
But there’s another side to Madre, one that’s dedicated to Mexico’s pride and joy – tequila. You’ll find it in many forms here, from spicy Margs to fruity Palomas, in Lageritas and even straight up – order from the añejo menu to really treat yourself. There’s mezcal aplenty too, alongside the iconic Michelada, Mexico’s spicy , savoury twist on a Bloody Mary, topped up with Corona. Once you get your head around them, they’re dangerously drinkable.
Madre is joined in Leeds by its dive bar alter ego, Salon Madre. Situated just around the corner from the restaurant, it’s a place that turns up the vibes – and the volume. Expect tequila-fuelled nights, DJ sets, pool tables and Lucha Libre on the big screens. It’s fun, unpretentious and ready-made for everything from low key-date nights to big group get-togethers.
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If you still need convincing, Sam puts it perfectly: “The food’s delicious, the Margaritas are always flowing and whatever the occasion, you’re guaranteed a good time.” We’re sold – and you’ll find us at the bar on opening night (and many a night thereafter).
Madre and Salon Madre are opening at Unit 2A & 2B, 4 Wellington Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4AP. Salon Madre is expected to open in December 2025, followed by Madre in early 2026. Sign up to the Madre mailing list to claim a free Marg.
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