🗞️ Leeds in Bloom: New Openings Part 7

Our latest new openings in Leeds article is here as we say hello to another instalment of Leeds In Bloom. We explore the dynamic landscape of the city that never sleeps and delve into the exciting world of its recent openings and freshly announced businesses.

Shopping & Travel…

Nike Rise

Trinity Leeds was stoked to reveal the new concept Nike Rise fairly recently. The new store will cover 10,000 sq ft. The concept aims to enhance shopping experiences through innovative digital experiences and services that help the city’s sports pulse. The store will join some international brands, including Zara, that have taken new space at Trinity Leeds, as well as others like Mango that have relocated and upsized as they “continue to prioritise fewer, bigger, better stores. 

Steven Foster, the Trinity Leeds Director, couldn’t be ecstatic: “It speaks volumes that such an iconic international brand has chosen Trinity Leeds, demonstrating the strength of the centre – and the city – as a go-to retail destination.”

So, gear up for a shopping experience like never before as Trinity Leeds continues to attract global retailers, making it a place where big names converge and retail dreams come to life!

Beaverbrooks

In the heart of Leeds’ Jellwery quarter (and part of Trinity Leeds), Beaverbrooks unveiled its revamped city centre store on January 13, showcasing an extensive transformation of the space.

The now expansive 1,300 sq. ft. Beaverbrooks store marks the retailer’s inaugural venture across two floors. Ascend to the upper level and discover a brand-new dedicated section for diamonds and weddings, seamlessly integrated with specialist diamond areas throughout the space.

The refurbishment extends its embrace to the adjoining luxury watch boutique, TAG Heuer, which has grown remarkably, nearly doubling its original size. This enhancement aims to provide Leeds shoppers with an enhanced experience, granting access to an impressive array of TAG Heuer’s most anticipated launches and heritage pieces. Beaverbrooks in Trinity Leeds is not just a store; it’s a dynamic destination where timeless elegance and contemporary luxury converge. Fancy.

Hays Travel

Step into a world of wanderlust on Briggate, Leeds, where Hays Travel has unveiled its latest gem – the UK’s largest independent travel agent, now housed in a dazzling new flagship store. With over 40 years of expertise, Hays Travel stands as a beacon of excellence, offering unparalleled value, exceptional service, and an extensive array of holiday choices both on land and at sea.

As the doors swing open to this travel haven, be prepared to embark on a journey guided by seasoned professionals passionate about curating unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you dream of sandy beaches, cultural escapades, or thrilling adventures, Hays Travel on Briggate is your gateway to a world of possibilities. With the recent weather in Leeds, we can’t wait to find somewhere more tropical.  

Food & Drink…

Nova Bakehouse

Nova Bakehouse had us on the edge of our seats with the news of their move. As devoted fans of this exceptional award-winning bakery, our initial panic turned into sheer relief when we discovered they’ve merely relocated up the street. Formerly nestled beside the North Star Coffee Shop, Nova Bakehouse has now set up shop closer to Tesco.

The goodness doesn’t end with the move. Nova Bakehouse boasts in-house masterclasses, tempting bread subscriptions, and a delightful offering of takeout goods (and coffee) available on Thursdays and Fridays from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, as well as Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM. So, whether you’re seeking a masterclass experience or just craving some top-notch baked treats, Nova Bakehouse has your back!

92 Degree Boar Lane

Embark on a taste journey with 92 Degrees, a Liverpool success story spreading its wings across the North. The newest addition to their Leeds family has found its home on Boar Lane, complementing two other thriving venues at Claypit Lane and Mustard Wharf.

Renowned for their self-roasted coffee and unwavering ethical stance, 92 Degrees allocates 10% of bagged coffee profits to Project Waterfall. Locally, they champion fairness by ensuring a living wage and sourcing from independent Leeds-based suppliers whenever possible.

Step into a well-lit, inviting space adorned with a charming battered sofa and an open fire, creating an ambience that invites relaxation. The friendly team adds the perfect finishing touch to this coffee haven. Without a doubt, 92 Degrees on Boar Lane deserves a prime spot on your list of must-visit coffee destinations

Latitude Wine and Liquor Merchant

Latitude Wine and Liquor Merchant will soon be unlocking the doors to its brand-new location on The Calls, marking a significant expansion for the thriving business. Outgrowing its original premises on Cherry Tree Walk, where over 1,700 products were crammed into a modest 660 square foot space, the move to the new unit signifies a threefold increase in size.

The spacious new unit not only accommodates an extensive array of bottles but also introduces an exciting addition – a dedicated ‘tasting room.’ Here, patrons can indulge in a sensory journey, savouring the diverse offerings alongside a curated selection of cheese and charcuterie. The bar will elevate the experience further with a small yet exquisite cocktail menu, crafted from the “finest ingredients.” Visitors will also have the unique opportunity to sample any of the thousands of products available, turning Latitude into a haven for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Shabab or Zaviya 

An old favourite is rumoured to be returning to Leeds in early 2024. Shabab, formerly of Bishopgate Street, was a firm Leeds city centre favourite until it closed as part of the renovation work at Leeds Train Station. We have seen a few pieces of information saying it will open on Wellington Street in March 2024, which brings us to the next part.  

On the other side of the building, Arshad Javed, who has over 40 years in the food industry and also owns Shabab, has recently opened Zaviya. Taking over the inside of the former Wolfox venue on Britannia Street. Aimed as an all-day venue serving Wolfox coffee, the menu features healthy breakfast bowls, eggs done many ways, wraps and burgers. 24k gold leaf cappuccino and blue matcha later lead the extensive hot drink menu. 

Bavette

Sandy Jarvis, former head chef and managing director of The Culpeper Group, and his husband Clement Cousin will open Bavette Bistro on Horsforth Town Street this month, hoping to add some cool swagger.

The restaurant primarily provides traditional French cuisine, with a few British, Spanish, and Italian options. A selection of wines will also be available, some of which will be provided by Clement’s brother and father, who are winemakers in France. Check the sample menu on their website. We cannot wait for this.

“Bavette is born out of the desire of its passionate and experienced co-founders to share their love of restaurants and create a relaxed, convivial bistro where food and wine are of equal measure.”

Psycho Sandbar

Psycho Sandbar will open in O’Hare’s Leeds city centre base in 2024 replacing the ever-popular the Man Behind The Curtain. The latter, which launched in 2014, will remain open until Sunday, December 31 then the premises will have a refit in January.

The chef posted about his new venture, which is said to be ‘fish-heavy’ and surf shack’, on his Instagram page. O’Hare said the change has come from the impact of Brexit, the coronavirus pandemic and the cost of living crisis.

Psycho Sandbar will be a fine dining restaurant designed to be more accessible to guests.

Woodside

This brand-new and fairly sizeable pub was recently announced fully. Brought to you by the team behind The Brunswick and The Melbourne. Both are famed for their relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. With not much is known about them taking over the Gateway North, on Crown Point Road (underneath the IBIS Budget Hotel) we think this will bring some much needed fun to this part of town. So will this Neighbourhood bar & eatery be a massive hit? We think so. 

Habbibi 

This edition of Leeds in Bloom concludes with a grand finale. I don’t think many people had this on their bingo card list for 2024. Zac Issak, the serial restauranteur behind Fluer, Esabulo, Sakku Samba, teamed up with celebrities Tom Zanetti and international superstar Abdu Rozik. 

We were promised Ikaro, which would take over the space previously occupied by East 59th, the Victoria Gate’s rooftop restaurant. Having recently opened in Manchester, the Leeds location promised seafood, a grill, a champagne bar and a sophisticated late-night menu. Habbibi was created in a puff of Shisha smoke, with a last-minute decision to alter concepts resulting in a star-studded launch. 

Habbibi is an Arabic name that means ‘my love’ or ‘my beloved’, and the menu was devised by Rozik himself using a blend of global cuisines inspired by his international travels. It’s a straightforward menu (think steaks, burgers, and Lasagne) with an extensive drinks selection and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a Shisha menu. There are plans for more. Manchester is next, followed by the capital.