Leeds is sparkling with anticipation as an exciting array of new venues prepares to open, including Hello Japan on Albion Street for authentic groceries, Madre at Wellington Place for vibrant Mexican tastes, and the first Cinnammmm café in North Chapel Allerton, alongside Blend coffee on Burley Road.
The city’s fashion scene is also set to dazzle with Uniqlo and the returning Victoria’s Secret on Briggate, while Mr Bragshaws Art Gallery in Chapel Allerton promises a cultural feast with works from iconic artists like Banksy and David Hockney.
What exciting new shops and venues are opening in Leeds soon?
Leeds is welcoming several exciting new openings, including Hello Japan for authentic Japanese groceries, Madre for vibrant Mexican cuisine, Cinnammmm’s first café, Blend specialty coffee, Uniqlo and Victoria’s Secret on Briggate, and Mr Bragshaws Art Gallery in Chapel Allerton, enhancing the city’s shopping, dining, and cultural scene.
Leeds is abuzz with anticipation as a vibrant array of new shops, eateries, and venues prepares to open their doors this year and next. From international culinary delights and stylish fashion brands to cozy coffee shops and world-class art galleries, the city’s ever-evolving landscape promises something fresh for everyone. Explore what’s coming and get ready to discover new favorites in the heart of Leeds.
Hello Japan: A Taste of Tokyo on Albion Street
Leeds welcomes a unique addition to its culinary scene with Hello Japan, the city’s newest independent Japanese grocery store. Opening on Albion Street on July 19th, 2025, Hello Japan aims to become the go-to destination for authentic Japanese food products. Enthusiasts of East Asian cuisine will be able to browse an impressive selection, including ramen varieties, sweet snacks such as Poky—which has garnered a devoted following as the Japanese answer to Mikado—and premium matcha for at-home preparation.
What sets Hello Japan apart is its commitment to exclusivity. The store plans to restock every couple of weeks, ensuring that customers always find something new and exciting. Many of the products—ranging from instant noodle flavors rarely seen outside Japan to region-specific confectioneries—are exclusive imports unavailable elsewhere in the UK. This approach positions Hello Japan as a haven for both seasoned Japanophiles and curious newcomers alike.
The store’s central location on Albion Street means easy access for both residents and visitors. As Leeds continues to diversify its international food offering, Hello Japan is poised to become a staple for anyone seeking quality Japanese ingredients, specialty drinks, and culinary inspiration. For more information, keep an eye on Hello Japan’s updates as opening day approaches.
Culinary Revelations: Madre, Cinnammmm and Blend
Madre: Mexican Flavors with a Social Twist
Set to open at Wellington Place this autumn, Madre brings the vibrant flavors and communal spirit of Mexico to Leeds. Already a favorite in Liverpool and Manchester, Madre is built around the principle of “sobremesa”—the joyous lingering at the table long after the meal. The menu is a bold, playful adventure, featuring everything from Oaxacan moles and salsas to Baja-style seafood and Sonoran grilled meats. Sharing platters and inventive cocktails encourage leisurely, social dining experiences.
Adjacent to the restaurant, Salon Madre offers an energetic bar and pool hall setting. Here, tequila and mezcal take center stage, complemented by a rotation of Mexican street food favorites. As one local foodie puts it, “Madre isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a place to make memories with friends over incredible dishes and drinks.” For a preview, check their official website.
Cinnammmm: Sweet Success Finds a Home
After five years of delighting Leeds with their cinnamon buns at pop-ups, markets, and local cafés, Cinnammmm is set to open its first brick-and-mortar café in North Chapel Allerton. While the exact opening date remains under wraps, anticipation runs high among fans who have previously had to order in advance to secure their sticky, sweet treats. The new café promises an inviting space to enjoy fresh cinnamon buns with a hot drink, right from the oven.
Cinnammmm’s expansion is a testament to the city’s thriving independent food scene. Their move to a permanent venue eliminates the stress of sell-outs and long wait times, making it even easier for locals to get their fix. Expect a welcoming environment, irresistible aromas, and perhaps new menu additions once the doors officially open.
Blend: A New Coffee Experience on Burley Road
Taking over the corner spot on Burley Road, Blend is stepping into the shoes of former venues Corner Café and OWT. Though details remain sparse, the boutique coffee shop is already generating buzz. Early signs suggest a focus on high-quality coffee served in a minimalist, tranquil atmosphere—a haven for those seeking a calm retreat to savor a perfect cup.
The space’s transformation reflects a growing trend toward specialty coffee in Leeds, where each new café brings its own unique personality and brewing philosophy. Blend’s promise of quality roasts and a stripped-back environment is sure to attract both devoted caffeine fans and those simply seeking a moment of peace in the city. Watch for updates on Blend’s site as opening nears.
Fashion Forward: Uniqlo and Victoria’s Secret Return to Briggate
Uniqlo: Effortless Style Comes to Leeds
World-renowned for its minimalist, high-quality basics, Japanese fashion retailer Uniqlo is set to make its Leeds debut in 2026. Taking up residence in The Store House on Briggate, Uniqlo’s arrival marks a significant addition to the city’s retail landscape. The new store will be conveniently located below the Prestige Student Living accommodation and just across from Zara, turning Briggate into a fashion hub for shoppers seeking modern, affordable essentials.
Uniqlo’s expansion into Leeds follows a broader trend of global brands recognizing the city’s growing importance as a retail destination. With its focus on sustainability, innovative fabric technologies, and timeless designs, Uniqlo is expected to attract a broad demographic. Students, professionals, and fashion enthusiasts alike will appreciate the accessible pricing and the brand’s reputation for durability and comfort.
The anticipated launch in 2026 will further solidify Briggate’s position as a premier shopping street in Leeds. Customers eager for the latest updates can follow Uniqlo’s UK site for announcements on opening events and exclusive Leeds offerings.
Victoria’s Secret: Glamour Returns
After a two-year hiatus, Victoria’s Secret is poised to make a glamorous return to Leeds, joining Uniqlo in The Store House on Briggate. Known for its signature lingerie, loungewear, and beauty products, the brand’s return has been eagerly awaited by both long-time customers and newcomers. Planning documents confirm that their iconic signage has received council approval, signaling that the transformation is well underway.
Though the exact opening date remains uncertain, Victoria’s Secret’s comeback is expected to boost foot traffic and enhance the high-street experience on Briggate. The location places the store squarely in the center of Leeds’ bustling retail district, offering easy access to shoppers seeking the latest styles and signature collections. “It’s going to be a much more glamorous walk down Briggate with Victoria’s Secret back,” remarked one local shopper.
For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, the official Victoria’s Secret website will provide the most up-to-date information on the store’s reopening and exclusive offers tied to the Leeds location.
Culture and Creativity: Mr Bragshaws Art Gallery Arrives
Art lovers and collectors in Leeds have a new destination to look forward to with the imminent arrival of Mr Bragshaws fine art collection gallery in Chapel Allerton. Occupying the space at Phoenix House, the gallery promises an immersive experience with a carefully curated selection of modern and contemporary artwork. Notably, pieces from internationally acclaimed artists such as Banksy, David Hockney, Tracey Emin, and Damien Hirst will be on display, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
The gallery aims to offer an intimate setting where visitors can engage deeply with each piece. As the organizers put it, “We want to create a space that stimulates creativity and inspires conversations around modern art.” By showcasing original works from globally recognized artists, Mr Bragshaws elevates Leeds’ cultural offerings and provides opportunities for both seasoned collectors and the simply curious to appreciate high-caliber art up close.
In addition to rotating exhibitions, the venue is expected to host special events, artist talks, and workshops, fostering a vibrant community around contemporary art in North Leeds. For more details, visit Mr Bragshaws’ official page and watch for the announcement of their grand opening in Chapel Allerton.
- Hello Japan, an independent Japanese grocery store, is opening on Albion Street on July 19th, 2025, offering authentic East Asian food products.
- Madre, a vibrant Mexican restaurant known for its communal dining experience, is set to open at Wellington Place this autumn.
- Cinnammmm, a popular cinnamon bun vendor, will open its first brick-and-mortar café in North Chapel Allerton after five years of pop-ups.
- Uniqlo, the Japanese fashion retailer, is scheduled to make its Leeds debut in 2026 on Briggate, bringing its minimalist, high-quality basics to the city.
- Mr Bragshaws Art Gallery is arriving in Chapel Allerton, promising a cultural experience with works from iconic artists like Banksy and David Hockney.