Leeds boasts some of the finest alfresco dining spots, from riverside pizzerias like Water Lane Boathouse to luxurious city-view venues like Angelica & Crafthouse. With a range of menus and atmospheres, these outdoor havens provide a perfect blend of good food and picturesque settings for all to enjoy.
What are the best alfresco dining spots in Leeds?
Leeds offers a variety of alfresco dining experiences, here are some top picks:
– Water Lane Boathouse: Neapolitan-style pizzas on the River Aire’s edge.
– Angelica & Crafthouse: Luxurious outdoor dining with city views.
– The Midnight Bell: Traditional pub with a beer garden.
– Nation of Shopkeepers: Heated terrace and British cuisine.
– Banyan: Sunny courtyard near the station with a diverse menu.
– The Cross Keys: Craft beers and outdoor benches.
– Parkside Tavern: Sun-drenched terraces with pizzas and platters.
– Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen: Rooftop garden with city views and casual eats.
– Lamb & Flag: Courtyard dining near Leeds Minster with varied lunch options.
Alfresco dining is more than just a way to enjoy a meal; it’s an experience that combines good food, great company, and the serene backdrop of nature. In Leeds, we’re blessed with an abundance of spots where these moments can be savored. This article uncovers the finest alfresco dining destinations in the city, from sun-drenched terraces to idyllic riverside retreats.
City Centre Oasis
Water Lane Boathouse
Nestled along the tranquil River Aire, Water Lane Boathouse presents an idyllic setting for alfresco enthusiasts. “Overlooking the River Aire with a gorgeous beer garden, Water Lane Boathouse is one of the best alfresco dining spots in Leeds,” claims Leeds-List. With big benches and a selection of parasols and heaters, this venue ensures comfort, come rain or shine. Indulge in their Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas or savor the stacked halloumi burger, while quenching your thirst with craft beers and G&Ts under the sun that graces this gem all day long.
- Address: Canal Wharf, Holbeck, Leeds, LS11 5PS
- Website: waterlaneboathouse.com
Angelica & Crafthouse
Elevating the alfresco dining scene, Angelica & Crafthouse offers panoramic city views paired with an exquisite menu. The Leeds-List highlights, “With greenery at every corner, parasols and heat lamps, there’s no better place to eat outdoors in the city.” Head Chef Simon Jewitt’s menu ranges from Lindisfarne oysters to a delectable banana rice pudding. This venue is a sanctuary for those seeking a luxurious outdoor dining experience.
- Address: Level 5 & 6, Trinity, 70 Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 6HW
- Website: angelicacrafthouse.com
The Midnight Bell
For a traditional beer garden ambiance, The Midnight Bell stands out. Jo Ritchie, an aficionado of the Leeds pub scene, describes it as a venue where “you’ll find the courtyard round the back of the pub, with a lot of picnic benches to sit upon while you admire the beauty of Holbeck’s industrial surroundings.” Their menu offers hearty classics like steak and ale pie, best accompanied by a pint of Leeds Brewery’s finest ale.
- Address: 101 Water Lane, Leeds, LS11 5QN
- Website: midnightbell.co.uk
Suburban Delights
Nation of Shopkeepers
A hub of outdoor dining, Nation of Shopkeepers boasts a vast beer garden with a covered terrace and booths. “They also have heaters to keep you warm in the colder months – or just typical Leeds summertime,” notes Leeds-List. The menu celebrates British cuisine with elevated burgers and indulgent treats like the Pay Day fries, a crowd favorite.
- Address: 29 Cookridge Street, LS2 3AG
- Website: anationofshopkeepers.com
Banyan
In the heart of the city, near the station, Banyan offers an alfresco experience that transitions seamlessly from a sunny courtyard to a cozy Winter Garden. Their wide-ranging menu includes breakfast favorites and Thai red chicken curry. “We recommend going down on a lunchtime to grab a tasty chicken fajita wrap,” suggests Leeds-List. And with a 2-for-1 cocktail offering, it’s an invitation hard to resist.
- Address: Toronto Square, 2 City Square, Leeds, LS1 2ES
- Website: banyanbar.co.uk
The Cross Keys
The Cross Keys marries its renowned craft beer selection with a charming outdoor dining space. “Kitted out with picnic benches, heaters and parasols,” remarks Leeds-List, it’s a locale that caters to all weather whims. The menu, though concise, is packed with flavors, including mouth-watering Korean wings and Cumberland sausage served with parmesan truffle mash.
- Address: 107 Water Lane, Holbeck, Leeds, LS11 5WD
- Website: thecrosskeysleeds.co.uk
Riverside Escapes
Parkside Tavern
Parkside Tavern’s beer garden is a sunseeker’s haven with multiple outdoor areas, including an upstairs terrace. “You can bask in the sunshine on a summer’s day, or snuggle up under a parasol and a heat lamp should the weather prove worse for wear,” states Leeds-List. Their extensive menu offers hand-stretched pizzas and sharing platters, perfect for groups looking to unwind in a laid-back setting.
- Address: St Johns House, Merrion Street, Leeds, LS2 8JE
- Website: parksidetavern.co.uk
Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen
Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen’s rooftop garden has become a favorite for Leeds residents. “With brilliant views of the city, covered seating and those oh-so-important heaters,” says Leeds-List, “it’s a great place to enjoy the grub Belgrave has to offer.” From Dough Boys’ fresh pizzas to Patty Smith’s delicious burgers, the choices are plentiful and satisfying.
- Address: Cross Belgrave Street, Leeds, LS2 8JP
- Website: belgravemusichall.com
Lamb & Flag
Lamb & Flag’s courtyard, with its fairy lights and heaters, offers a picturesque dining experience beside Leeds Minster. Leeds-List recommends, “The lunch menu features the likes of falafel & hummus flatbreads and brie & bacon sandwiches.” For those seeking a more substantial meal, the Sykes House Farm 10oz rump steak is a delectable choice.
- Address: 1 Church Row, Leeds, LS2 7HD
- Website: lambandflagleeds.co.uk
In conclusion, Leeds presents a diverse collection of alfresco dining spots that cater to all tastes and occasions. Whether you’re in the city centre or exploring the suburbs, these establishments offer a memorable outdoor dining experience that combines quality cuisine with the beauty of the outdoors.
- Leeds offers a variety of alfresco dining experiences, from riverside pizzerias like Water Lane Boathouse to luxurious city-view venues like Angelica & Crafthouse.
- The Midnight Bell offers a traditional pub experience with a beer garden and hearty classics like steak and ale pie.
- Nation of Shopkeepers in Leeds boasts a vast beer garden with covered terrace and British cuisine offerings, including elevated burgers and crowd-favorite dishes.
- Banyan near the station provides a sunny courtyard for alfresco dining and a diverse menu, with a 2-for-1 cocktail offering.
- Parkside Tavern’s sun-drenched terraces and extensive menu of hand-stretched pizzas and sharing platters make it a popular spot for groups to enjoy alfresco dining.