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Leeds Shines in Good Food Guide with Two Top Restaurants
Chapter 81
Leeds’ vibrant food scene has reason to celebrate as two of its standout independents, The Swine Bistro in Headingley and Bavette in Horsforth, have been named among the UK’s 100 Best Local Restaurants in the newly published Good Food Guide 2025.
The guide, now in its 15th year and produced in partnership with Square, champions accessible, great‑value dining. This year saw almost 60,000 public nominations, with only 100 restaurants making the final cut. Leeds boasts two of them, a testament to the city’s growing reputation for culinary excellence.
The Swine Bistro, run by chef couple Jo and Stu Myers, has been on a whirlwind journey. Formerly known as The Swine That Dines in the city centre, the bistro relocated in April to a larger home on Otley Road in Headingley, doubling its covers to 35 and launching an expanded menu and drinks list. Funded by a £42,000 crowdfunding campaign, the new venue quickly became a neighbourhood favourite, praised for its bold seasonal dishes and legendary Sunday lunches.
“We’re blown away to be named one of the UK’s Best 100 Local Restaurants, and one of only two in Leeds,” said co‑owner Jo Myers. “Since opening in Headingley just a few months ago, we’ve found our stride. There’s so much more to come – from fresh menu additions to exciting collaborations.”
Signature dishes like terrines, homemade sausages and traditional pies remain, complemented by a carefully curated wine list featuring natural wines from Wayward Wines and Latitude Wines, plus craft beers from Ilkley and Horsforth breweries. A two‑course set menu for £20 underlines its commitment to affordability.
In Horsforth, Bavette continues to impress. Opened by Sandy Jarvis and Clément Cousin, the French bistro pairs effortless charm with dishes like pork and prune pâté en croûte and their speciality bavette steak. Already Michelin‑recommended and praised by critic Jay Rayner, Bavette has cemented itself as a destination for classic French fare with a modern twist.
With these two celebrated restaurants earning national recognition, Leeds’ food scene proves once again that it offers some of the most exciting, community‑loved dining experiences in the country.