There’s been loads of new openings in 2025, but we’ve rounded up a handful of our favourites right here.
As another year draws to a close, we thought it was time to reflect on the fantastic array of new additions that we welcomed to our city over the last 12 months. There’s been everything from charming bookshops to delicious eateries and the welcome return of a beloved pub – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. So without further ado, let’s round up some of our favourite new openings of 2025.
Fancy checking out what we can look forward to in 2026? We’ve got you covered.
Victoria & Commercial
Credit: Chris Hall
This iconic Leeds pub is pouring pints once again. After being closed for more than five years, Victoria & Commercial reopened in December, thanks to the talented team behind Kirkstall Brewery, Whitelock’s and White Cloth Hall. The interiors of the Grade II-listed building have been lovingly restored and well stocked with a selection of cask and keg beers, wine, spirits and cocktails. There’s hearty food on the menu, charming original features, and a cosy atmosphere that invites you to spend all day here.
Victoria & Commercial, 28 Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3DL.
Mondego
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Mondego swung open its doors in October, offering some beautiful homeware bargains. Almost everything here is sold by weight, so you simply browse the shop, pick out the ones you love and weigh them on the scales. From mugs to jugs, plates to bowls, they’ve got plenty of gorgeous and affordable ceramics sourced straight from Portugal. And with new arrivals every week, there’s always an excuse for a return visit.
Mondego Outlet, The Tank Room, Roundhouse Business Park, Graingers Way, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 1AH.
Brewery Wharf Tavern
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Set right on the River Aire, Brewery Wharf Tavern is a modern pub concept that opened in late August. With open and airy interiors and panoramic views over the river, it’s an ideal setting to enjoy a pint or two (or three). Another offering by the team behind Whitelock’s, it’s no surprise that the drink offering here is fantastic, with local brews from the likes of Kirkstall, Northern Monk and Anthology. The kitchen slings out tasty cheesy slices, while the weekly calendar features the likes of quizzes, bingo and more.
Brewery Wharf Tavern, 3 Brewery Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1NE.
The Highland Laddie
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After sitting empty for more than four decades, the former Tetley’s pub, The Highland, reopened in April, owing to the efforts of the team behind Empire Cafe. It’s been renamed The Highland Laddie and has wasted no time in cementing its reputation, having been crowned Britain’s best pub in the Good Food’s Guide. From the chilled oysters to their comforting Sunday roasts, the food is complemented by a brilliant selection of drinks and enticing interiors.
The Highland Laddie, 36-38 Cavendish Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS3 1LY.
Art & Soul
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Searching for some one-of-a-kind gifts, pretty prints and gorgeous jewellery? It’s got to be Art and Soul in Queens Arcade. Set over two floors, the Leeds store marks their third venue and features works from 250 independent artists and makers. They celebrate creativity – so whether it’s a cool candle or a gorgeous greeting card, you’re guaranteed to walk away feeling happy with your purchase.
Art & Soul, Queen’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.
Hello Japan
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Hello Japan has been welcoming shoppers in Leeds since July, offering a one-stop-shop for authentic Asian products. Their shelves are filled with an unbelievable array of ramen, sweet treats like Poky and uniquely flavoured Kit Kats, as well as good quality matcha you can make right at home. They restock every couple of weeks and many of their items are exclusive imports, so you’ll struggle to find them anywhere else.
Hello Japan, 90-92 Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AD.
BAKE
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One of the sweetest new openings in Leeds came right at the start of the year in the form of BAKE. Set lockside on Wharf Approach, it’s a concept from the creators of Doh’hut and Things in Bread, so you know it’s gonna be good. It’s a tasty treasure trove of nostalgic bakery treats – go on, snaffle a sausage roll or rock up for a piece of rocky road, you know you deserve it.
BAKE, Lockside, Wharf Approach, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4EY.
Vinyl Grounds
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Coffee, wine and records – what more could you ask for from a new opening? Vinyl Grounds opened in November on Central Road in the old Brownhill & Co site. It’s the passion project of Leeds locals Saroop and Jay, and this trendy bar is the perfect hangout day or night. There’s a stunning soundtrack of vinyl to take in as you warm up with a hot beverage or sip on a sublime wine. From intimate dates to chilled times with friends, this is the place to be.
Vinyl Grounds, 30 Central Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DE.
Rinse Natural Wine
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Back in May, we raised a glass when Rinse Natural Wine opened, and it’s still one of our favourite spots for a tipple and a chat. Following the success of Bottle Chop in Headingley, this Call Lane bar offers natural wine, which is produced organically, free from additives and vegan-friendly. Poured by the tap or bottle, be sure to pair your glass with one of their cheeseboards, seasonal small plates or artisan toasted sandwiches.
Rinse Natural Wine, 9 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7DH.
The Glee Club
Credit: Jack Spicer Adams
Leeds was treated to the newest comedy club back in March, when The Glee Club opened on Great George Street. The stunning venue hosts weekly comedy nights, with top names playing on Friday and Saturday nights, along with superb stand-up events. All that laughing can be hungry work, but thankfully, you can order tasty grub from a satisfying menu which features burgers, pizzas and nachos. And with food-inclusive tickets, your dishes will be bought to your table, so you never miss a punchline,
The Glee Club, Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8ER.
Alfonso’s Deli
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Make your lunchtimes special with a trip to Alfonso’s. Their permanent bodega deli can be found in the Grand Arcade dishing out authentic pressed Cuban sandwiches that will have you feeling like a true New Yorker. From classic Philly cheesesteak to a warming meatball marinara, there’s always something delicious on the menu – and with weekend specials, you can sample a new sarnie masterpiece every week.
Alfonso’s Deli, 4-5 Grand Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PQ.
Uyare
Credit: Breige Cobane Photography
Uyare elevated Leeds dining scene in more ways than one. Not only are the Keralan dishes absolutely spectacular, but the interiors are stunning and the rooftop views across the city are a breathtaking backdrop while you enjoy your meal. It’s a venture from the team behind Tharavadu, so you can rest assured that you’ll get only the finest of flavours. Be sure to treat yourself to one of their theatrically crafted cocktails during your visit.
Uyare, Victoria Gate 3rd Floor Rooftop, George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7AU.
Giggling Squid
Tuck into tasty Thai while taking in tremendous interiors at Giggling Squid. From the moment you step inside, you know it’s something special, thanks to the pretty pastel furnishings and abundance of floral arrangements. That expert attention to detail extends to the food, with the menu including all the classic curries, sumptuous small plates and rice, noodle and stir-fry favourites that your heart desires. Chopsticks at the ready!
Giggling Squid, 27 Park Row, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5QB.
Blank Street
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Did you know that Leeds is home to the world’s largest Blank Street? Set across two floors in the former Starbucks store on Albion Street, the space has been transformed into a bright, airy and suitably mint-green coloured hangout spot. The New York coffee chain is famous for their picture-perfect iced matchas which taste as good as they look, with coffees, teas, and baked goods joining them on the menu. It’s an iced Earl Grey matcha for us, thanks!
Blank Street, 48 Albion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AB.
