The best restaurants in Leeds

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Interested in a new home in Leeds and want a glimpse of what your new life will be like? This guide is for you!

Whether you’re a born and bred local or you’re looking to move into the area, Leeds is a vibrant, historic city with much to offer. From prestigious universities to the historic culture around every corner, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular place to settle down. 

Below is a list of some of the best places to eat in Leeds. A diverse collection of restaurants, whether you’re looking for authentic street food, Michelin-starred excellence or a lively venue, this culinary hub has it all.

The Swine That Dines

If you’re looking for an unusual, unassuming restaurant where you’ll find shelves lined with cookbooks, in what appears to be somebody’s dining room, The Swine That Dines has just that. Revolutionising the meaning of fine dining, this innovative restaurant oozes high-quality and a polished finish in a relaxed, laidback environment (essentially, a homespun living room). 

With an array of fresh produce – from Swine Sundays (a refreshing spin on Sunday roasts) to insightful culinary combinations throughout the week - this regularly changing menu caters for all. 

Ox Club

Located in the heart of popular dining-out spot, Headrow House, Ox Club is a great choice for those looking for a rustic, authentic experience. Savour the flavours of their smoky wood-fired cooking, with more than half of the dishes on the menu flamed for flavour. 

With a range of event nights to choose from, Ox Club is a great venue for a special night out, with impressive views to marvel at while your meal is roasted to perfection. 

Top tip: make sure you save some room for their delectable desserts, too!

Zaap Thai

For something a little more Southeast of the globe, step into the food markets of Bangkok at Zaap Thai – providing an authentic Thai street food experience to remember. With over 80 stands of tantalising treats to choose from, Zaap Thai has it all – from neon lighting to eccentric tuk-tuks, and menus packed full of fresh and vibrant ingredients.

The Owl

For a small, relaxed (yet, slightly lively) feel with modern British food, The Owl – located Lockside, next to Leeds’ canal – is a great choice for a cosy meal in the city. Offering a 5-course menu, The Owl uses the best local fish, meat and game to keep its customers returning for more exciting flavours. 

With an outdoor terrace for canal-side drinks and an indoor wine bar to relax in, Sundays are one of their most popular days for a weekend day out.

Home 

One for a special occasion, HOME serves an ever-evolving tasting menu, located in a beautiful spot next to the River Aire. Led by chef patron, Elizabeth Cottam, find yourself dining with an 8 - 12 course tasting menu, pairing classic flavours with unexpected textures.

Each dish tells a different story – so if you’re looking for an adventurous meal out in Leeds, this blend of poetic tastes and colours could be the perfect choice.

Top tip: bookings are released, unannounced, up to three months in advance – so, if you want a spot, subscribe to the Priority List to be the first to hear!

Bundobust

Another street food market on the list, Bundobust specialises in delicious vegetarian Indian street food, not to mention their own brewery’s craft beer, too! Keeping things simple, Bundobust is a walk-in casual place to eat out in Leeds, with wooden benches and a selection of 20 or so small plates to choose from. 

A great choice for vegans, too, this venue is perfect for those looking for a quick bite to eat but wanting their tastebuds truly tantalised. 

Suez le Nez

A top choice for any vino lovers! Sporting an extravagant 40-page wine list, basement beauty meets old-school indulgence when dining at Suez le Nez. Embark through the culture of French cuisine where flavours leap up from the plates through generously sized dishes. 

Discover an array of nooks and crannies, including secluded private spaces, perfect for intimate dining in Leeds. 

Bibis

For a dining-come-entertainment experience, look no further than Bibis Restaurant. A traditional Italian family run venue, this is a hotspot in the heart of Leeds perfect for a lively night out on the town. It’s recognised for its gracious hospitality and exciting theme nights, sporting art deco inspired styles. 

An opulent venue renowned for authentic Italian cuisine and regular live music events, enjoy Soul, Jazz, Motown and more as the restaurant and bar come alive!

The Man Behind the Curtain

One of Leeds’s more unusual places to eat, welcome to the conceptual art of The Man Behind the Curtain. This modernist approach to cuisine is pioneered by Michael O’Hare, gaining its popularity and awareness through his pretty unconventional video campaigns.

As Leeds’s only Michelin-star venue, its concept is inspired by The Wizard of Oz, as O’Hare cooks in full view of his diners every night. One for a special occasion, but worth every penny!

Top tip: as a patron, you can even doodle on the ‘blank canvas’ walls to step into the full artistic experience of the evening. 

Shears Yard

Looking for a restaurant with ever-changing menus in an elevated yet relaxed location? This independent kitchen and bar in Leeds could be for you – featuring sky-high ceilings, filament bulbs and exposed brick in a stunning 18th century building. 

Located in The Calls (a popular area near River Aire in the city centre), choose from bottomless brunch with friends to Sunday lunch with the family. 

Now you’ve learnt about the top restaurants in the city, perhaps you’re interested in finding out about our new homes in Leeds? 

Let us help you find your dream home in Leeds today by registering your interest with our helpful team today. 

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