In Leeds, meat lovers rejoice in an array of exquisite charcuterie boards from Friends of Ham to Red’s True Barbecue, each offering a unique meaty experience. Indulge in curated platters, Greek-inspired feasts, and Spanish selections across the vibrant city’s diverse culinary landscape.
What are the best places for charcutarie boards in Leeds?
Leeds boasts an impressive selection of venues offering exquisite charcuterie boards for meat lovers:
1. Friends of Ham – curated meat platters with cheese.
2. Tavernaki – Greek-inspired Meat Poikilia.
3. Red’s True Barbecue – smoked meat Pit Tray and sharing platters.
4. The Decanter – charcuterie with wine pairing.
5. Ibérica – refined Spanish meat selection.
6. Da Vito Ristorante – traditional Italian cured meats.
7. Ambiente – Josper-grilled Spanish meat board.
Leeds, a vibrant city in the heart of West Yorkshire, is renowned for its eclectic food scene. Among its culinary offerings, the city presents a particular treat for meat lovers— an array of venues serving sumptuous charcuterie boards. This is a celebration of the most delightful meat boards available across Leeds, waiting to satisfy the cravings of any discerning carnivore.
Meaty Indulgences at Friends of Ham
At Friends of Ham, the love for meat transcends a mere appreciation—it’s a full-blown passion. This establishment has captivated the hearts (and stomachs) of Leeds’ residents with their carefully curated meat platters. Visitors may select from predetermined boards bursting with flavorful cheeses and meats or tailor their own board to their liking. Would you prefer the matured taste of a 15-month aged Gran Reserva Serrano or the aromatic richness of Lardo di Colonnata? Whichever you choose, your taste buds are in for a delightful journey.
- Address: Friends of Ham, 4-8 New Station Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5DL.
Tavernaki: A Greek Spin on Meat Platters
While Tavernaki may deviate from the traditional charcuterie offerings, it stands as a testament to the universal appeal of a well-assembled meat board. The Greek-inspired Meat Poikilia is a sight to behold and a taste to be savored, loaded with succulent lamb chops, traditional Greek sausage, and a medley of marinated chicken and pork. One bite and you’re transported to the Mediterranean, basking in the flavors of Greece. It’s an ideal choice for sharing, though you might just want to keep it all for yourself.
- Address: Tavernaki, 18 Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3DW.
Smoke and Sizzle at Red’s True Barbecue
Red’s True Barbecue takes pride in its bold approach to smoked meats, making it a revered spot among Leeds’ meat connoisseurs. Abandon any thoughts of dainty charcuterie here; instead, prepare for the hefty Pit Tray, a combination of 14-hour Texas smoked pork belly, sausage, chopped pork, and an array of sides that’s perfect for solo diners. For groups, the bin lid sharing platter is nothing short of legendary, with its plethora of smoked meats and sides ensuring a finger-licking experience.
- Address: Red’s True Barbecue, 1 Cloth Hall Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2HD.
The Decanter: Where Wine Meets Charcuterie
The Decanter may be known for its exquisite wine and gin selections, but its charcuterie boards are the real showstoppers. Indulge in a selection of Yorkshire Lomo, classic Prosciutto Crudo, Milano Salami, Chorizo, and Jamon Serrano. Each board is a symphony of flavors, served with complementary crackers, chutneys, and almonds. For those who want it all, the combo platter combines the best of both worlds—cheese and meats in harmonious abundance.
- Address: The Decanter, 17 Park Row, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 5JQ.
Ibérica’s Spanish Sophistication
Set in the exquisite Hepper House, Ibérica offers a Spanish tapas experience that is both authentic and elevated. Their charcuterie board is an epitome of refined taste, featuring a selection of Spanish meats like Cecina, robust Chorizo, cured pork loin (Cabecero de Lomo), and the decadent Truffled Salchichon. For those looking to expand their culinary horizons, a half-and-half board allows a sampling of both Ibérica’s superb cheeses and its select meats.
- Address: Ibérica, Hepper House, 17a East Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2BH.
Da Vito’s Italian Meat Mastery
Da Vito Ristorante proudly upholds Italy’s tradition of cured meats with their exceptional offerings. The Antipasto Toscano presents a tapestry of Parma ham with pate-topped crostinis—a feast for both the eyes and the palate. For sharing, the platter version elevates the experience, while the Bresaola della Valtellina offers a distinct flavor profile from Lombardy, garnished with pecorino shavings. It’s a platter that’s not just eaten, but cherished.
- Address: Da Vito Ristorante, 3 York Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2DR.
Ambiente: Tapas with a Twist
Ambiente may fly under the radar in Leeds’ bustling tapas scene, but it stands out with its impeccable dishes and skillful use of the Josper grill. Their meat board is particularly impressive, featuring a variety of Spanish Iberico Lomo, Chorizo, Salchichon, Serrano, and Mini Fuet—those delightful bite-sized Catalonian sausages. Paired with Manchego cheese, homemade bread, and a selection of condiments, Ambiente’s board is a celebration of Spanish flavors.
- Address: Ambiente, 36-38 The Calls, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7EW.
Leeds continues to thrive as a haven for food lovers, and these establishments with their exceptional meat boards are a testament to the city’s vibrant gastronomic culture. Whether you are a local or a visitor, these venues offer a memorable experience for anyone with an appetite for quality, flavor, and the joy of sharing a good meal.
- Leeds offers an impressive selection of venues for charcuterie boards, including Friends of Ham, Tavernaki, Red’s True Barbecue, The Decanter, Ibérica, Da Vito Ristorante, and Ambiente.
- Friends of Ham in Leeds provides curated meat platters with cheese, offering visitors a delightful journey of flavors.
- Tavernaki offers a Greek-inspired Meat Poikilia with succulent lamb chops, Greek sausage, and marinated chicken and pork for a taste of the Mediterranean.
- Red’s True Barbecue in Leeds serves bold smoked meats, like the Pit Tray and sharing platters, perfect for solo diners or groups.
- The Decanter impresses with exquisite wine and gin selections, along with charcuterie boards featuring a variety of meats like Yorkshire Lomo and Chorizo served with complementary items.