Leeds is abuzz with anticipation as five exciting new venues prepare to open their doors. From vintage erotica bars to innovative bakeries and brewery taprooms, these establishments promise to inject fresh energy into the city’s vibrant scene, with names like Behind Closed Doors, CHUNK Bakery, Forde, The Ilkley Tap, and The Old Engine Works set to redefine Leeds’ cultural and culinary landscape.
What are the exciting new venues opening soon in Leeds?
- Behind Closed Doors: A bar with vintage erotica and mid-century design, opening on Call Lane in August 2024.
- CHUNK Bakery: Expanding to a larger unit on Burley Road later in 2024, offering cookies, cakes, and coffee.
- Forde: A restaurant by chef Matt Healy featuring British small plates, opening at The Moors Shopping Centre in Autumn 2024.
- The Ilkley Tap: Ilkley Brewery’s taproom offering fresh brews, opening on The Grove Promenade, Ilkley later in 2024.
- The Old Engine Works: A multipurpose events venue opening on Jack Lane, Hunslet in 2025.
Leeds is a city in perpetual motion, a place where change is the only constant. As we look to the future, a host of new ventures are poised to inject fresh energy into our vibrant urban landscape. From the culinary corners to the hubs of nightlife and culture, let’s explore the key openings that promise to redefine the city’s dynamic scene.
Behind Closed Doors: A Nostalgic Escape
The city’s nightlife is set to be reinvigorated with the arrival of Behind Closed Doors. The beloved Manchester bar is branching out to Leeds, establishing its second venue in the iconic space once occupied by Wire. Patrons can anticipate a fusion of retro charm and contemporary chic, where vintage erotica meets mid-century aesthetics.
“Get ready for a decadent theme that brings together vintage erotica, mid-century design and cool cocktails, like the pink gin-led Love Bite,” promises the management. This statement captures the essence of what locals can expect— a sophisticated, yet quirky watering hole perfect for those looking to unwind in style. Behind Closed Doors is opening on Call Lane in August 2024, marking a new chapter for Leeds’ bustling bar scene.
CHUNK Bakery: A Sweet Expansion
For those with a penchant for sweet treats, CHUNK Bakery is a name that resonates with quality and indulgence. Following the success of their first permanent establishment, CHUNK is gearing up to expand its footprint with a larger unit across the street. This move signifies not only growth but a commitment to bringing more of their beloved cookies, cakes, and coffee to the city.
This expansion will enable CHUNK to enhance its offerings, including online orders and the introduction of workshops and events. “It will allow these slingers of yummy cookies, incredible cakes and delicious coffee to do more,” states the team behind CHUNK, showcasing their vision for a multifaceted bakery experience. Slated to open later in 2024 on Burley Road, this new venture will undoubtedly become a go-to destination for Leeds’ dessert aficionados.
Forde: Culinary Innovation in Ilkley
With a reputation cemented in the culinary landscape of Leeds, chef Matt Healy turns his gaze to Ilkley, bringing with him the promise of a dining experience steeped in innovation and quality. Forde represents Healy’s latest venture, a nod to his unwavering pursuit of gastronomic excellence.
Healy’s newest establishment will offer a curated selection of British small plates, paired meticulously with fine wines, craft beers, and inventive cocktails. The highlight, however, may well be the “city-defining Sunday lunch and tasty sharing boards,” as touted by the chef himself. Set to open its doors at The Moors Shopping Centre in Autumn 2024, Forde is poised to become a culinary landmark in both Ilkley and the broader Leeds region.
The Ilkley Tap: A Brewery’s Homecoming
In an exciting development for beer enthusiasts, The Ilkley Tap is set to become the newest jewel in Ilkley Brewery’s crown. Occupying the space left by the much-loved Joel’s, the brewery is making a bold statement with their first taproom in the town, promising an unparalleled beer-tasting experience.
“The Ilkley Tap will be the place to go to get their latest and greatest brews, as fresh as possibly can be, from Mary Jane to the iconic Ilkley Pale,” the brewery announces, highlighting their commitment to offering the freshest possible pours. Besides their signature brews, locally-sourced food offerings will complement the beer selection. The Ilkley Tap is expected to open on The Grove Promenade, Ilkley later in 2024, creating a new hotspot for both locals and visitors alike.
The Old Engine Works: A New Cultural Venue
Finally, The Old Engine Works is set to redefine Leeds’ cultural and entertainment space. This innovative project will transform the historic offices of a former steam locomotive manufacturer into the city’s newest multipurpose events venue.
Scheduled to open its doors on Jack Lane, Hunslet in 2025, The Old Engine Works will host a diverse array of events, from concerts to conferences and even weddings. “Alongside hosting concerts and club nights, it will also host conferences, weddings and community meetings, as well as having its own cafe,” explains the team behind the project. This ambitious undertaking highlights Leeds’ commitment to preserving its industrial heritage while fostering a thriving environment for the arts and community engagement.
In conclusion, these forthcoming openings in Leeds signify the city’s unyielding vibrancy and its residents’ penchant for embracing the new while cherishing the old. Each venue, with its unique offering, contributes to the rich tapestry of Leeds’ culture and lifestyle, promising to enhance the cityscape for years to come.
- Behind Closed Doors: A bar with vintage erotica and mid-century design, opening on Call Lane in August 2024.
- CHUNK Bakery: Expanding to a larger unit on Burley Road later in 2024, offering cookies, cakes, and coffee.
- Forde: A restaurant by chef Matt Healy featuring British small plates, opening at The Moors Shopping Centre in Autumn 2024.
- The Ilkley Tap: Ilkley Brewery’s taproom offering fresh brews, opening on The Grove Promenade, Ilkley later in 2024.
- The Old Engine Works: A multipurpose events venue opening on Jack Lane, Hunslet in 2025.