Leeds is a treasure trove of hidden culinary gems, from Wen’s authentic Chinese dishes at 72-74 North Street to Rambuttri‘s innovative Thai cuisine on Duke Street. Don’t miss Bomba‘s celebrated paella in Holbeck and the gastropub flair of Three’s A Crowd, where hearty meals and Sunday roasts await at 76-78 North Street, each offering a unique dining adventure in this vibrant city.
What are the hidden culinary gems of Leeds?
Discover Leeds’ hidden culinary gems like Wen’s with its authentic Chinese flavors, Rambuttri offering innovative Thai cuisine, Bomba for the best paella, and Three’s A Crowd, a unique gastropub. These tucked-away eateries provide a rich gastronomic experience for food lovers seeking unique and authentic dining adventures in the city.
Wen’s – A Chinese Delight Beyond the Ordinary
Within the bustling culinary scene of Leeds lies a modest but extraordinary Chinese eatery, Wen’s. While it may not boast extravagant decor, the authentic and sophisticated flavours on offer are unmatched by your typical local takeaway. Here, the experience is about diving deep into the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine, way beyond the familiar Cantonese staples we’re accustomed to. Wen’s stands as a testament to traditional cooking, where each dish brings a burst of complex flavours that are sure to entice any food enthusiast.
The menu at Wen’s offers an exploration of textures and temperatures, particularly evident in their cold sliced pork belly with garlic in chilli oil – a starter that perfectly balances crunch with an unexpected coolness. The dumplings, handcrafted with meticulous care, are a highlight, and their Dan Dan noodles have earned rightful acclaim. It’s this commitment to elevating simple ingredients into something extraordinary that sets Wen’s apart.
For those seeking a truly standout dish, the crispy deep-fried whole sea bass in sweet vinegar sauce is a revelation. The delicate balance of sweetness and acidity complements the fish’s crispy skin, making it a must-try for any visitor. Price points are reasonable, with starters ranging from £7.80 to £11.90 and mains from £12.90 to £18.80. Nestled at 72-74 North Street, Wen’s is a culinary jewel waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture beyond the beaten path.
Rambuttri – The Thai Adventure Awaiting Discovery
Rambuttri might be the newcomer to Leeds’ food scene, but it has wasted no time in establishing itself as a destination for those craving an authentic Thai experience away from the city centre’s hustle. Pushing culinary boundaries while delivering beloved classics with flair, Rambuttri demonstrates that a short journey to its doors is a small price to pay for a taste of Thailand’s true essence.
The restaurant’s interior is warm and welcoming, setting the stage for a menu that’s equal parts comforting and innovative. While dishes like crispy pork belly and green curry will satisfy those seeking the familiar, it’s the bold choices like braised ox cheek in house special sauce that exemplify Rambuttri’s adventurous spirit. Thai basil pesto prawns served over spaghetti, a dish that marries Italian and Thai traditions, is just one example of the creative fusion you can expect.
One cannot leave Rambuttri without trying the whole sea bream with pineapple and tamarind sauce – a dish that is as refreshing as it is flavourful. With small plates starting from £6 to £13.50 and mains priced between £14.50 and £26.50, Rambuttri offers a genuine Thai experience that’s accessible to all. Located on Duke Street, this restaurant is sure to become a favourite among those who cherish culinary exploration.
Bomba – Holbeck’s Best-Kept Secret
Bomba remains one of Leeds’ unsung treasures, serving up what many consider to be the best paella in the city. It’s a hidden gem that perhaps owes its quiet success to its location in Holbeck or the whispered consensus that its offerings are to be savoured without the crowds. Whatever the reason, this Spanish eatery beckons with an array of tapas that burst with Mediterranean zest, from chorizo in red wine to the irresistible allure of garlic prawns.
Evening meals at Bomba are a celebration of Spanish cuisine, where each dish is a symphony of flavours. The restaurant’s paella, a highlight of the menu, comes in various incarnations, including a vegetarian option. But it’s the seafood paella that reigns supreme, brimming with oceanic treasures like squid, mussels, and prawns. It’s a dish that offers a taste of Spain’s coastal splendour right in the heart of Leeds.
And for those with a sweet tooth, Bomba’s dessert menu does not disappoint. While churros may be a crowd favourite, the dreamy Malaga raisin ice cream served with Pedro Ximenez sherry is an indulgence not to be missed. With tapas priced from £3.50 to £8 and paella portions for two ranging from £26 to £38, Bomba is a destination for those seeking authentic Spanish flavours. You can find this hidden culinary treasure at 2 Keys Court in Holbeck.
Three’s A Crowd – More Than Just a Gastropub
Once home to the beloved Reliance, the location at 76-78 North Street has found a new lease on life with Three’s A Crowd, a gastropub that’s quickly become the talk of the town. Renowned for serving one of the city’s best Sunday roasts, this establishment has proven its mettle with an array of offerings that extend well beyond the traditional weekend affair.
Whether you’re in for wine and nibbles or a hearty brunch starting at 11am, Three’s A Crowd caters to your cravings. Their menu is a thoughtful curation of small and large plates, with an evening selection that’s sure to tempt. From the succulent spring lamb rump to their signature fish and chips, every dish is crafted with an emphasis on quality and taste. The zingy lime curd tart is a refreshing finale to any meal.
For those looking to indulge, the 35-day dry-aged Hereford chateaubriand is an experience to share with someone special. With starters priced between £8 and £12.50, mains ranging from £18 to £48, and Sunday roasts from £20 to £25, Three’s A Crowd elevates the gastropub concept to new heights. It’s a place that combines the comfort of a pub with the finesse of fine dining, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
In crafting this exploration of Leeds’ culinary spots, we’ve taken care to highlight the diverse and rich gastronomic landscape that this city has to offer. From the hidden Chinese kitchen of Wen’s to the innovative Thai flavours of Rambuttri, the authentic Spanish experience at Bomba, and the refined gastropub offerings of Three’s A Crowd, Leeds proves itself a city for food lovers. These establishments, each with their own unique charm and culinary excellence, await those eager to discover the lesser-known dining experiences that Leeds holds within its vibrant streets.
- Leeds is home to hidden culinary gems, including Wen’s for authentic Chinese dishes, Rambuttri for innovative Thai cuisine, Bomba for acclaimed paella, and Three’s A Crowd, a notable gastropub.
- Wen’s, located at 72-74 North Street, offers traditional Chinese cuisine with a focus on complex flavors and textures, highlighted by dishes like crispy deep-fried whole sea bass and handcrafted dumplings.
- Rambuttri, situated on Duke Street, combines comforting Thai classics with adventurous fusion dishes, such as braised ox cheek and Thai basil pesto prawns served with spaghetti.
- Bomba, found in Holbeck, is celebrated for its exceptional seafood paella and a vibrant tapas menu, including specialties like chorizo in red wine and delicious churros for dessert.
- Three’s A Crowd, a gastropub at 76-78 North Street, is known for its superb Sunday roasts and a diverse menu that elevates pub dining with high-quality dishes like 35-day dry-aged Hereford chateaubriand.