In 2024, Leeds is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes 21 new hotspots, including The Ilkley Tap for local brews, The Old Police Station boutique aparthotel, and NQ64 gaming bar, each adding a unique flavor to the city’s vibrant scene. With offerings ranging from indulgent eateries like Etci Mehmet Turkish steakhouse to creative spaces like Pinot & Picasso, Leeds has truly transformed into a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
What are the best new openings in Leeds in 2024?
The best new openings in Leeds in 2024 include a variety of eateries, entertainment venues, and cultural hotspots such as The Ilkley Tap, The Old Police Station boutique aparthotel, Nylas café, NQ64 gaming bar, White Cloth Hall food market, Eleven Eleven pilates studio, Etci Mehmet Turkish steakhouse, Caffe Brigante, Knoops chocolate shop, Pinot & Picasso creative studio, Bavette French bistro, Underground Bakery, Boojum burrito bar, Raw Coffee shop, Wingstop, Livett’s Coffee Shop, Honey vintage store, Holding Patterns listening bar, Woodside for beer and bites, Rita’s Beerhouse & Ballroom, and the expanded North Home Scandinavian design store.
Leeds, a city known for its vibrant culture and continuous growth, has had a prolific year of new openings in 2024. From indulgent eateries to entertainment hubs, each addition has contributed to the city’s dynamic character. Here, we delve into some of the most noteworthy openings of the year, highlighting the diversity and innovation that continue to shape Leeds as a destination of excitement and enjoyment.
Ilkley Tap: A Toast to Local Brews
The Ilkley Brewery has made a bold statement with the opening of their first taproom, The Ilkley Tap, on Grove Promenade. Beer enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with over 20 lines of beer, including eight hand-pulled cask ales and twelve keg beers. “We’re talking tipples that showcase the very best of Yorkshire,” enthuses the brewery. Complementing the extensive beer selection, Stuzzi’s in-house kitchen serves delectable Italian small plates, making The Ilkley Tap a new favorite for both drink and dining.
The Old Police Station: A Nod to Heritage and Luxury
In Headingley, the transformation of the old police station into a boutique aparthotel is a testament to Leeds’ ability to blend history with contemporary luxury. The Old Police Station by Montgomery House offers five exquisitely decorated bedrooms, complete with all the amenities one could wish for, from super king beds to Marshall speakers. The ground floor boasts a luxury espresso machine and treats from Yorkshire Crisps, making it a symbol of fine living.
Nylas: A Culinary and Aesthetic Delight
Briggate’s newest addition, Nylas, presents a stunning décor that merges exposed bricks with verdant hanging greenery and striking neon signage. Their food offering is as captivating as the setting, with choices from pesto focaccia to avocado toast, and a drinks menu featuring vibrant cocktails and a selection of beers and wines. Nylas has quickly become a hub for those who appreciate the finer points of dining and design.
NQ64: Retro Gaming and Cocktails Combined
NQ64 has taken the gaming bar concept to new heights with its arrival in Leeds. Situated in the former Manahatta on Merrion Street, the venue is adorned with UV graffiti and lighting that sets the stage for arcade adventures. With classics like Pac-Man and Guitar Hero, along with video-game-themed cocktails, NQ64 offers a unique blend of nostalgia and nightlife.
White Cloth Hall: A Foodie’s Paradise
The opening of White Cloth Hall has brought together an impressive array of indie food vendors within a Grade II-listed building, creating a gastronomic haven for Leeds locals and visitors. Food aficionados can savor pizza focaccia from Mortys, slow-cooked meats from Salmas, and a host of other delectable options. The venue also boasts a stellar drink selection, catering to a variety of tastes.
Eleven Eleven: Revolutionizing Fitness in Seacroft
Eleven Eleven has brought a fresh perspective to the fitness scene in Seacroft as a new reformer pilates studio. Founder Holly offers classes that cater to different skill levels and needs, from beginner to dynamic flow. Emphasizing personalized guidance, Eleven Eleven invites residents to explore a new approach to wellness and exercise.
Etci Mehmet: Turkish Flavors Meet Theatrical Cooking
Leeds’ restaurant scene has been spiced up with the introduction of Etci Mehmet, a premium Turkish steakhouse. The restaurant’s flambé cooking techniques and high-quality meats promise a meal that’s as memorable for its flavors as it is for its presentation. The 28-day dry-aged steak, prepared table-side, is a standout dish that encapsulates the steakhouse’s commitment to excellence.
Caffe Brigante: A Tiramisu Lover’s Dream
Caffe Brigante’s opening has delighted dessert aficionados with a selection of seven tiramisu flavors, ranging from classic to Nutella and strawberry. Beyond the sweet treats, the café offers Italian sandwiches and slices of pizza, providing a taste of Italy in the heart of Leeds.
Knoops: Chocolate Indulgence at Its Finest
For chocolate lovers, Knoops is a dream come true. With over 20 different chocolate percentages to choose from, customers can customize their hot chocolate, milkshake, or iced drink to their liking. The array of options and the quality of the chocolate make Knoops a standout destination for a sweet escape.
Pinot & Picasso: Unleashing Creativity with a Sip
Pinot & Picasso combines the joy of painting with the pleasure of wine, offering a range of classes suited to various interests. With a supportive environment and step-by-step guidance, the studio has become a popular spot for those looking to unleash their creativity in a fun setting.
Bavette: French Bistro with British Accolades
The French bistro Bavette has quickly earned a reputation as a culinary gem, having been recognized as Britain’s best local restaurant. The seasonally changing menu promises a dining experience that is both refined and innovative, with dishes like North Sea red bream and caramelized onion tartlets showcasing the bistro’s commitment to quality and creativity.
Underground Bakery: A Sweet Addition to Call Lane
The Underground Bakery’s expansion to Leeds city center has been met with enthusiasm by those seeking artisanal baked goods. With offerings like almond croissants, savoury danishes, and stuffed cruffins, the bakery has become a go-to destination for breakfast and indulgent treats.
Boojum: A Culinary Fiesta from Ireland
Boojum’s vibrant and flavorful burritos have made a grand entrance in Leeds, introducing a create-your-own dining experience that has captivated the city’s food enthusiasts. The array of fillings, from chicken to barbacoa beef, along with fresh toppings, has turned Boojum into a local favorite for those seeking a taste of Mexico.
Raw Coffee: A Blend of Yorkshire Tradition and Artisan Coffee
Raw Coffee, a specialty coffee shop by Anya and James Adams, offers a cozy haven for coffee lovers, serving ethically sourced beans roasted in-house. With options ranging from matcha to classic Yorkshire tea, Raw Coffee has something for everyone, making it a beloved addition to the city.
Wingstop: An American Import with a Leeds Welcome
The arrival of Wingstop has seen Leeds embrace the renowned American fast-food chain, famous for its variety of chicken dishes. The lunchtime queues are a testament to its popularity, with offerings like tenders, boneless wings, and loaded fries satisfying the city’s appetite.
Livett’s Coffee Shop: A Hidden Gem Unveiled
Livett’s Coffee Shop may have flown under the radar, but its presence next to The Wardrobe has certainly captured the attention of those in the know. The shop’s array of coffee, cookies, brownies, and sandwiches has quickly made it a cherished spot for a casual bite or caffeine fix.
Honey: Vintage Fashion Finds a Home
The Corn Exchange has welcomed Honey, a vintage clothing store that offers carefully curated pieces aligned with current fashion trends. The store has become a destination for those seeking unique and stylish garments in Leeds.
Holding Patterns: Intimate Space for Music and Relaxation
Holding Patterns has introduced Leeds’ first listening bar, a concept that merges music, coffee, cocktails, and literature. As a collaborative effort from the minds behind Hyde Park Book Club and Renaissance Hair & Beauty, it offers a new kind of social space for residents.
Woodside: The New Kid on the Block for Beer and Bites
Woodside, from the creators of The Brunswick, has quickly established itself as a hotspot for food and drink enthusiasts. With a selection of beers like Guinness and Neck Oil, as well as coffee from roasters Elsewhere Coffee, Woodside caters to a variety of tastes.
Rita’s: A Refreshing Twist on Tradition
Rita’s Beerhouse & Ballroom has taken over the space formerly occupied by Walkabout, introducing a retro-themed venue complete with leopard print pool tables and neon signs. The cocktail menu, featuring Margaritas and XXL pizzas, ensures a lively and flavorful experience.
North Home: Scandinavian Design Expands in Leeds
North Home has undergone a transformation, moving to a larger space in County Arcade to offer even more Scandinavian-inspired homeware. The new showroom, food hall, and retail space allow for a greater selection of brands, enriching Leeds’ shopping landscape.
As the year comes to a close, the tapestry of Leeds’ offerings has become richer and more varied. These openings reflect the city’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and the pursuit of quality in all aspects of life. Whether one is a food connoisseur, fitness aficionado, or cultural enthusiast, Leeds in 2024 has provided an array of new experiences that continue to draw people from near and far.
- In 2024, Leeds is welcoming 21 new hotspots, including venues for dining, entertainment, and culture, enhancing the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Notable openings include The Ilkley Tap, a brewery taproom with over 20 beer options, and The Old Police Station, a boutique aparthotel that marries luxury with historical charm.
- The city’s food scene has expanded with diverse offerings such as Etci Mehmet, a Turkish steakhouse known for its flambé cooking, and Caffe Brigante, which specializes in a variety of tiramisu flavors.
- Leeds has also introduced unique experiences like NQ64, a retro gaming bar paired with themed cocktails, and Pinot & Picasso, a creative studio combining painting with wine enjoyment.
- The city’s commitment to innovation is further highlighted by new ventures like Raw Coffee, which focuses on ethically sourced coffee, and Holding Patterns, a listening bar that intertwines music, coffee, and literature.