The 11 Best Places to Eat in Leeds, United Kingdom

Leeds is a lively city in England, known for its rich history, culture, and of course, its food. Over the years, Leeds has significantly impacted British cuisine, and its culinary scene has been shaped by the city’s diverse communities and industrial past. One of Leeds’s most notable culinary traditions is the ‘Yorkshire Pudding,’ a staple of the British Sunday roast. The dish is believed to have originated in Leeds during the 18th century and is a must-try for any foodie visiting the city.

Leeds is a city that is passionate about food, and there are plenty of places to eat that offer a diverse range of cuisines. A visit to Kirkgate Market is a must for those looking to explore the local food scene, as the market is the largest covered market in Europe and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. There are also many street food vendors in the market, serving dishes from around the world. 

Another popular food destination in Leeds is Trinity Kitchen, a street food market located inside the Trinity Leeds shopping center. With a rotating selection of food vendors, there’s always something new to try at Trinity Kitchen.

Leeds is also home to many high-quality restaurants serving traditional British dishes with a modern twist. One such restaurant is The Man Behind The Curtain, which has been awarded two Michelin stars. The restaurant offers a tasting menu that combines British ingredients with innovative cooking techniques to create an unforgettable dining experience. 

Another great restaurant to try is The Reliance, a cozy gastropub serving delicious British classics like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. Whatever your culinary preferences may be, there are plenty of places to eat in Leeds that will satisfy your appetite and satisfy you.

The food scene in Leeds, United Kingdom

The food scene in Leeds is diverse and constantly evolving, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors to choose from. From traditional British cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for every foodie in Leeds.

One of the best places to eat in Leeds is the famous Leeds Kirkgate Market, which has been operating since the 1800s. The market is a food lover’s paradise, with a huge selection of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods, as well as street food vendors serving everything from Indian curries to Greek gyros.

For a more upscale dining experience, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in Leeds, such as The Man Behind The Curtain and The Box Tree. These restaurants offer innovative and creative dishes that use locally-sourced ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Leeds is also home to many gastropubs and craft beer bars serving delicious pub grub and a great selection of beers. Places like The Reliance and North Bar are popular spots for locals and visitors alike.

If you’re looking for something more international, Leeds has a vibrant food scene with various cuisines to choose from. Bundobust is a popular spot for vegetarian Indian street food, while Zaap Thai Street Food offers a taste of Thailand in the heart of Leeds. For something a little different, try out The Cat’s Pyjamas, a modern Indian restaurant that offers a unique take on traditional Indian dishes.

11 Places to eat in Leeds

If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Leeds, you’re in luck! This post will provide you with a list of some of the best restaurants in the city to enjoy a delicious meal during your stay.

Kirkgate Market

Leeds Kirkgate Market has been a prominent feature in the city’s retail scene since 1857, and it remains one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. The market is a shopper’s paradise, offering a diverse range of goods, from fresh food, drink, and fashion to flowers, hardware, and haberdashery. The market is home to a unique mix of traders, representing a wide range of nationalities and spanning generations. Visitors can experience the market’s bustling atmosphere, complete with the sights, sounds, and smells of traders selling their wares.

The interior of Leeds Kirkgate Market is a sight to behold. It has a vibrant and colorful aesthetic that adds to the market’s bustling atmosphere. With over 800 stalls, the market offers a sensory experience that captivates you. The market’s new events space has taken this experience to another level, allowing it to host various events, including food and drink festivals, vintage fashion fairs, live music, and plays.

When it comes to food, Leeds Kirkgate Market is a foodie’s paradise. The market has a vast array of food stalls that offer everything from shawarmas to chapatis, crepes to cockles, and Yorkshire puds to fine patisserie. With its Asian Bazaar every Wednesday morning and a farmers’ market on Briggate every first and third Sunday of the month, visitors can sample the market’s diverse range of cuisines. If you are looking for places to eat in Leeds, you won’t be disappointed with the food options available at Leeds Kirkgate Market.

De Baga

De Baga is a modern Indian restaurant in Leeds, known for its delicious Goan cuisine and lively atmosphere. With its attentive service and two locations in Headingley and Chapel Allerton, it’s a go-to spot for those looking for places to eat in Leeds. De Baga’s success in their first restaurant led to the opening of a second location, which has become just as popular.

The interior of De Baga exudes a warm and inviting ambiance, making it a great spot for intimate dinners or larger parties of friends. The decor is modern with a touch of traditional Indian design elements, creating a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere, attentive service, and vibrant decor all come together to create a memorable dining experience.

De Baga’s specialty is traditional Goan cuisine with a modern interpretation. Their menu boasts a variety of options from land and sea, including beautifully spiced salmon tikka, soft shell crunchy crab, and meaty clay oven Murgh Mughali kebabs. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their carefully curated cocktails, designed to complement the flavors of their dishes. De Baga is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or to gather with friends and indulge in a platter of fantastic food.

Tharavadu

Tharavadu, located on a quiet street that winds between Leeds Train Station and the city center, is an Indian restaurant that can stake a claim as one of the best places to eat in Leeds. Praised in The Good Food Guide and the Harden’s Restaurant Guide and frequented by India cricket captain Virat Kohli, Tharavadu is a firm favorite with both locals and visitors alike.

Tharavadu’s menu offers much more than just standard curry house fare and boasts a range of authentic Keralan dishes. The attention to detail and care were taken in preparing each dish is evident, and the friendly staff always makes you feel welcome. It’s no wonder Tharavadu is such a popular destination, especially given its proximity to Leeds station.

The restaurant’s interior is warm and inviting, with traditional decor and a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The welcoming ambiance of Tharavadu provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience that will leave you wanting to return time and time again.

Crafthouse

Crafthouse is a British restaurant located above Trinity shopping center in Leeds, known for its stunning panoramic views, stylish presentation, and floral interiors. It celebrates the city’s historical influence and architecture while offering an elegant, upscale dining experience. Whether you’re looking to impress a date, celebrate a special occasion, or simply indulge in some fine cuisine, Crafthouse is a must-visit destination on any list of places to eat in Leeds.

Crafthouse is also home to Angelica, a swish cocktail bar located above the restaurant, offering a picturesque setting to sip on a delicious cocktail or two. Whether you’re there for the views, cocktails, or food, the experience at Crafthouse is sure to be memorable.

Crafthouse is known for its seven-course tasting menu, designed to be shared by the entire table. The menu celebrates the best British cuisine, using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients available. Each dish is beautifully presented and carefully crafted to highlight the flavors of the ingredients. From perfectly cooked meats to delectable desserts, the tasting menu is a true feast for the senses. With its stunning views, elegant interior, and mouth-watering food, Crafthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in the best that Leeds offers.

Heaney & Mill

Heaney & Mill Studios has a rich family history dating back to 1966. It was the industry leader in both personal and commercial photography in Leeds until the retirement of its founders, Ken and Wendy Heaney. Today, it remains a family-owned business and operates as an independent restaurant and cocktail bar. Executive Chef and MasterChef Finalist Tom Rennolds uses the finest fresh ingredients from local suppliers to create menus that cover breakfast to dinner.

Heaney and Mill is a stylish and serene restaurant located in Headingley, next to The Bowery. Its interior features marble table tops, exposed stone, and a muted color palette, and its outdoor terrace is a popular spot for diners. Its fully stocked wine bar and cocktail station make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink. Heaney and Mill provide options for all dietary needs, with gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and vegetarian-friendly dishes available.

The restaurant’s menu changes regularly to offer fresh and exciting dishes, showcasing the area’s best produce. The breakfast menu includes oats, pancakes with strawberries, and hot dishes like a full English breakfast. The evening menu features small plates like burrata with roasted beets, sugared pecans, and aged balsamic, as well as large plates such as roasted haunch of venison. All dishes are homemade and cooked to order, ensuring freshness and quality. Heaney and Mill is a great addition to the many places to eat in Leeds and a must-visit for foodies looking for top-notch cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Botanist

The Botanist Leeds is a hidden gem of a restaurant and bar under Trinity’s glass dome. This unique establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere, with live music and an array of unusual cocktails and drinks, all crafted by resident botanists. The menu features a rustic deli-style selection of food, including rotisserie and grill options, making it a must-visit destination for those looking for a wondrous occasion in one of the best places to eat in Leeds.

The interior of The Botanist is a secret garden of sorts, complete with lush greenery and botanical-inspired decor. The live music enhances the relaxed atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for conversation and enjoyment. With an impressive selection of bottled beers, craft ales, ciders, and a wide range of botanically infused cocktails, The Botanist offers a unique and memorable dining experience for all.

The menu at The Botanist offers a rustic and deli-style selection of dishes that are perfect for sharing. The rotisserie and grill options are particularly popular, focusing on using locally sourced and fresh ingredients. In addition to the food, The Botanist hosts live music events, such as the not-so-traditional Musical Bingo, which makes it a unique and fun destination for all. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner, The Botanist is one of the best places to eat in Leeds, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Shears Yard

Shears Yard, located on the trendy side of town just off The Calls, is a charming restaurant hidden within a beautiful 18th-century building. The restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere and stylish decor with exposed brickwork, poured concrete floors, and an array of filament bulbs to create an enchanting setting. Shears Yard has become a firm favorite in Leeds, known for its lively and warm ambiance and delicious food, making it a true gem in the city’s culinary scene.

Despite being described as a “fine dining” restaurant, Shears Yard is known for offering reasonably priced dishes that won’t break the bank. The welcoming and friendly team adds to the already lively atmosphere, creating an experience that is both enjoyable and accessible. Whether looking for a casual evening out with friends or a romantic night out, Shears Yard is the perfect place to enjoy an excellent meal in a cozy and charming setting.

When it comes to food, Shears Yard offers a diverse menu that caters to a range of dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delicious dishes. Their well-priced menu features dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on bold and flavourful ingredients. Whether a meat lover or vegetarian, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds at Shears Yard. A visit to this Leeds restaurant should be on the list of anyone looking for great food, a friendly atmosphere, and an enjoyable dining experience.

Myrtle Tavern

The Myrtle Tavern is a local pub perfect for families with a great outdoor play area and beer garden. It serves high-quality pub food all day long, including meat, fish, veggie options, and even unusual bites on the tapas menu. On Sundays, there’s a special roast menu for guests. 

The interior of The Myrtle Tavern is cozy and welcoming, with a fascinating history. The pub was one of 20 cottages that formed a community for workers in the local mills. Scott Westlake and his team have done an excellent job revitalizing the place since taking over in 2011. The pub has become a hub for the local community, hosting various socials and events, including rock and roll bingo and music/general knowledge quizzes. 

The Myrtle Tavern is a fantastic place to grab a drink with a great range of refreshing beers and gins that are ideal for a hot summer’s day. If you prefer cask ales, the pub has got you covered too. With its fantastic food, inviting atmosphere, and great events, The Myrtle Tavern is one of the best places to eat in Leeds, and a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Senbon Sakura

Senbon Sakura, which translates to ‘A Thousand Cherry Blossoms’, is a charming cafe and Japanese kitchen located in the heart of Leeds. Their menu features a wide range of Japanese cuisine favorites, such as noodles, wok dishes, and katsu curry, as well as Japanese-style tapas dining options, including gyoza, tempura, and sushi bites.

One of the standout dishes on the menu is the Salmon & Avocado Tempura Roll, which combines fresh, flavorful salmon belly with creamy avocado, sesame seeds, sweet teriyaki sauce, and cool mayo, all encased in a perfectly crispy golden batter. The venue’s bright walls and lantern decorations are reminiscent of Japan, and the small wooden tables provide a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere that is ideal for catch-ups and socializing.

If you’re new to Japanese cuisine or simply can’t decide what to order, Senbon Sakura also offers set meals that include your choice of main course served with fluffy steamed rice and herbal miso soup. They also have a bento box edition that is perfect for those on the go. You can find Senbon Sakura Cafe & Japanese Kitchen across from St George’s Church on George Street, making it a great option for those looking for places to eat in Leeds.

Ox Club

Ox Club, located in Headrow House, is a top restaurant in Leeds that offers an exceptional dining experience. The industrial-style decor may seem basic, but don’t let that fool you; it adds to the restaurant’s laid-back vibe. Ox Club is known for using seasonal ingredients and real skills in preparing their dishes. Whether it’s the popular Chop Night featuring ex-dairy Swaledale beef or the North Sea Fish Supper, their menu showcases their commitment to quality.

The interior of Ox Club may seem simple with its concrete ceilings, sparse foliage, wooden shutters, and stickleback chairs, but it complements the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere. The focus is on the quality of the food and the dining experience, and it doesn’t need any embellishments. You can enjoy the excellent cuisine while immersing yourself in the chill ambiance of the restaurant.

The menu at Ox Club offers incredible value prix fixe, along with an array of delectable dishes. Don’t miss their chicken schmaltz, a dish made from chicken fat that is whipped into a spreadable texture and then served with warm bread. They also serve a variety of sides that are just as amazing as their mains. Ox Club is one of the best places to eat in Leeds and a must-try for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience.

Kendells Bistro

endells Bistro is a charming French-inspired restaurant that exudes warmth and informality. Here, you won’t find overly attentive waiters hovering over your table or overbearing pepper mills being thrust in your face. Instead, you’ll discover an intimate setting with flickering candles, blackboard menus, and an open-plan kitchen. The atmosphere is cozy and friendly, without any sense of pretension.

The interior of Kendells Bistro is simple yet elegant, with cloth napkins and a relaxed ambiance. The blackboard menus add a touch of informality, and the open-plan kitchen allows you to see your food being prepared before your eyes. This is an intimate restaurant that is perfect for a romantic date or a casual get-together with friends.

The food at Kendells Bistro is inspired by classic French cuisine, with dishes such as roast lamb with onion puree and boulangère potatoes, snails in garlic and butter, and a range of delicious steaks and sauces. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options. To accompany your meal, Kendells Bistro serves an excellent selection of French wines that pair perfectly with the food.

If you’re looking for a cozy French bistro with excellent food and wine in Leeds, Kendells Bistro is a must-visit. With its warm, friendly atmosphere and delicious menu, it’s a great place to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends or loved ones.

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