Leeds in Bloom: New Openings Part 14

From first-in-the-country debuts to much-loved locals raising the bar, the city’s food, drink and lifestyle scene is brimming with fresh energy (and no shortage of temptation). Whether you’re seeking out a new favourite, a standout coffee, or somewhere worth lingering a little longer, there’s plenty to discover. Let’s take a look at what’s new.

Food and drink

Jerk Junction – Trinity Leeds

Jerk Junction is packing a punch at Trinity Kitchen, bringing you authentic Caribbean flavours and mouthwatering dishes from jerk chicken to curry goat. The halal street food vendor, already a hit in Manchester, Liverpool and Wilmslow, delivers the warmth, energy and spirit of the islands in every bite.

Tori Nori – Vicar Lane

Chef Fern (of Fern Modern Sushi fame) has opened Tori Nori, a robata-style Japanese grill in the former Old Red Bus Station. Expect smoky skewers, dramatic flame-grilling and bold flavours that pack a punch. Follow along on Instagram for sneak peeks; the food looks exceptional.

Pollini’s Pizza Slice – Lands Lane

Known for their giant New York pizza slices for less than a fiver, Pollini’s Pizza Slice has opened a second site on Lands Lane at the former Poco Sicilian Street Food site. Expect the same 24-inch slices, fresh daily dough, secret house-made sauce and pizza pies they’re known for with all the toppings from Margarita to Hawaiian. 

Madre and Salon Madre – Wellington Street

From Manchester with love, Madre, and its sister concept Salon Madre bring incredible tacos, tequila and a proper party atmosphere to Wellington Street. Think DJs, Lucha Libre wrestling on screen, pool tables and bold Mexican flavours all night long. If you’re there for the pool or darts, booking in advance is recommended. Game on! 

The Smithfield – North Street

The Smithfield – a fresh chapter for the former Reliance – opened on North Street in early April 2026. A collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, the pub will focus on seasonal ingredients and relaxed dining. The team feels a responsibility to do the site justice (it was only The Reliance, no pressure!) and hopes to create a new neighbourhood favourite. Learn more in this article. 

The Victoria & Commercial – Great George Street 

Now reopened after a stunning refurbishment, The Victoria & Commercial is bustling once again. Restored to its former glory by Kirkstall Brewery and Whitelocks Ale House, The Vic is open every day, serving food and drinks with a focus on local suppliers, quality and independence. You’ll find eight handpulls, 14 keg lines and a wide range of wines, spirits and cocktails behind the beautifully refurbished long bar.

Buckle Up Cowgirl – Great George Street

Saddle up for the first rodeo ‘social experience’ bar in Yorkshire, Buckle Up Cowgirl, is here for a wild ride, good times and long nights. Fancy riding a mechanical rodeo bull? This country-themed bar has you covered – and the 20-something team behind it knows how to have fun. 

In Lamentation by Michael O’Hare – High Street, Boston Spa

In Lamentation is Michael O’Hare’s next venture in intimate fine dining, serving just 16 covers a night in an edgy Boston Spa venue. We expect only good things from the chef who brought Leeds its first Michelin star. Now accepting reservations, it’s worth getting in quick, or you’ll find yourself on a waiting list.

Birria Boyz – Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton

Time to get your hands dirty! Birria Boys serves Mexican nachos, wings, tacos and fries from Harrogate Road in Chapel Allerton. Tacos come with a spicy consommé that’s perfect for dunking, and if you’re feeling hungry, the Birria Box includes tacos, mac ‘n’ cheese, crispy honey sriracha wings, birria-loaded fried nachos, and, of course, dips.

Coffee and brunch

Maya’s Stores – Trinity Leeds

Maya’s Stores has opened a new café on Albion Street opposite Roxy Ball Room. Inside, you’ll find speciality coffee and matcha (pistachio, strawberry and banana bread) and daily-baked cookies in this minimal-chic northern location – a first for the Maya’s Store brand. Open daily from 8 am until 5:30 pm.

The Savvy Baker – Trinity Leeds

Brownie lovers, rejoice. Renowned brownie baker, The Savvy Baker, is now open in Leeds Trinity. As well as a huge range of mouthwatering brownies, there’s a dedicated matcha bar, serving matcha to order. Did you know the Savvy Baker also delivers? Hmmm, now there’s a thought.

Vinyl Grounds – Central Road

Leeds has a new coffee, wine and vinyl bar – Vinyl Grounds. Get everything from coffee to matcha, or an after-work wine while listening to a wide selection of vinyls (which are also on display behind the counter, making for a seriously stylish feature wall). It’s moody, it’s ambient, and it’s open every day, until 1 am on weekends.

House of Koko – Central Road

Chapel Allerton’s favourite brunch spot, House of Koko, brings its Middle Eastern-inspired brunches (think Muhammara Eggs, Hot Honey Habibti and Lebanese Hash) to Central Road, blending Mediterranean freshness with Leeds flair. Right next door to Vinyl Grounds, this spot screams super-chilled Saturday or Sunday mornings…

Federal – Boar Lane

Manchester’s brunch royalty has crossed the Pennines. Federal brings its Antipodean-style brunch and top-tier coffee to Boar Lane. Expect relaxed vibes, exceptional food and seriously good coffee. It won’t be long before you can try it out for yourself – although get ready to queue (it’s that popular). In the meantime, learn more about Federal in this article.

Blank Street Coffee – Albion Street

Blank Street Coffee has arrived in Leeds, taking over the former Starbucks site near Trinity. We’re loving seeing the brand’s stunning pastel-coloured iced lattes on the Leeds menu – it’s a surefire summer hit.

Pole Pole – North Street

Also on North Street, Pole Pole promises cosy vibes, sweet treats and peaceful moments. Pole Pole literally means ‘Slowly, slowly’ in Swahili, encouraging you to relax and enjoy its front-living-room-esque interior, complete with antique furniture and houseplants. Serving up artisan coffees and tasty treats, such as strawberry oolong cheese tart, it’s a unique coffee experience that’s worth trying. 

Maughans Bakery – Soyo Square

West Yorkshire’s oldest bakery, Maughans has a new location on Soyo Square. By day, find speciality coffee, ceremonial-grade matcha, sweet treats and lunch sandwiches within Maughans industrial-chic interior. By night, it’s the perfect spot for a glass of wine. The café also hosts Thirsty Thursdays (cocktails and beer from 3 pm until 11 pm) and regular events, such as the Pilates X Sound Brunch.

Blend – Burley Road

Bali-inspired café Blend has taken over the former Owt site on Burley Road. Go there if you’re looking for a super-stylish, quietly luxurious experience and stunning food – Blend might just serve the most Instagrammable plates in Leeds. The granola French toast is a work of art.

Pino – Robin Lane, Pudsey

Welcome to Pino, Leeds’ newest Italian café and gelateria inspired by the beautiful region of Puglia. Owner Fabio has created a stylish spot serving Italian coffee, pastries,  homemade pizza and gelato made fresh each day. Check out Pino’s Insta for ASMR-style shots of choux pastries baking – yum, yum.

Entertainment

Lane 7 – Trinity Leeds

Lane 7, the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand, just rolled into Trinity Leeds. Whether you want to bowl, drink, play darts or sink some putts on Lane 7’s mini golf courses, it’s sure to strike a high note. With over 20 activities to choose from, including curling, floor shuffle, rollerskating and shooting, you’re not going to get bored here.

Shopping & lifestyle

ALO – Queen Victoria Street

ALO, the premium American athletic apparel retailer, sashayed gracefully into the Victoria Quarter in January this year. Bathed in soft light inside ALO’s first Yorkshire store (only the second outside of London), you’ll find an extensive range of activewear, outerwear, accessories and wellness products. It’s effortlessly chic, whether you’re ready to go or just want to chill.

Finisterre – Cross Arcade, Victoria Quarter

The sustainable outdoor brand Finisterre recently opened its first northern store, featuring its full collection of cold-water surfwear and outerwear. Born from a love of the sea, this is conscious shopping at its finest with hardy knits and adventure essentials to keep you adventuring all year round.

Lisa Angel – Victoria Gate

Another brand to choose Victoria Leeds as its first northern base is the Norwich-based independent jewellery and accessories brand, Lisa Angel. Expect a mix of personalised jewellery, accessories and gifts from brands including Estella Bartlett and Emma Bridgewater. Lisa Angel is known for its personal, easy-wear pieces, so it’s well worth a visit. Read more about Lisa Angel here.

Topshop

It’s official. Topshop is back in Leeds – inside John Lewis. It’s been a while, but now’s your chance to get your hands on the goods once more in this small but perfectly formed concession.

Pop Mart – Briggate

Pop Mart has landed in Leeds. Want to get your hands on a Labubu plushie? Now’s your chance. You’ll also find a wide selection of collectable blind boxes featuring Skullpanda, Crybaby and Mage Space Mollys. At the top of Briggate, you’ll spot it by its giant window displays.

LEGO Store – Trinity Leeds

Now for some feel-good news. LEGO has opened a new, upsized 456 sq m store in Trinity Leeds. Expect Yorkshire-inspired LEGO models and interactive elements, such as a LEGO Pick a Brick Wall, free-build challenges, and in-store events, in the new and improved space designed to inspire Leeds’ young builders of tomorrow.

Art and Soul – Queens Arcade

Art and Soul brings its award-winning object d’art and handcrafted creations to Leeds, following the success of its Hull and Beverley stores. As well as selling wares from local artists, Art and Soul runs workshops and events for amateur artists looking to brush up on their skills and explore their creative side.

Mondego – Roundhouse Business Park

Mondego is the UK’s first and only store offering authentic Portuguese stoneware ceramics sold by weight – and quite honestly, one of Leeds’ worst-kept secrets. Everyone’s talking about this hidden gem! Even if you’re not in the market to buy, it’s just well worth a browse – there’s a beautiful café there, too. Open every day, except Monday.

Coming soon: 

Shopping

UNIQLO – Briggate

Still not here (and no confirmed date!), but well worth the wait;  Uniqlo Leeds is set to land on the ground floor of The Store House, Leeds’ new destination for student accommodation on Briggate. Known for its comfortable, functional clothing, the Japanese fast-fashion giant’s arrival is sure to delight its patient fans.

AS Colour – King Edward Street

AS Colour, a New Zealand-founded brand specialising in premium blank apparel, is known for its high-quality, durable and ethically produced t-shirts, hoodies, jackets and accessories designed for printing. If you’re a creator or maker in need of merch or workwear, this one’s for you. The opening date is yet to be confirmed…

Health and wellness

Randox Health – Cross Arcade, Victoria Quarter

Randox Health makes health testing fast, simple and convenient – and a dedicated Leeds clinic is coming to the Victoria Quarter’s Cross Arcade. Expect specialised screening and personalised health assessments that measure hundreds of biomarkers using advanced technology. There’s no confirmed opening date, but we predict this will be a popular one. 

Kontrast – Saxton Gardens

Kontrast is bringing its community-led saunas, ice baths and café space to a railway arch in Saxton Gardens this spring. Expect two traditional saunas (one social, one silent), one infrared sauna and four ice baths of varying temperatures. Sessions start from £12 for £45 with membership prices as low as £7.

Acai and the Tribe – Vicar Lane

Acai and the Tribe is bringing its superberries over from Manchester to give Leeds an Amazonian health boost. Acai and the Tribe’s acai bowls and smoothies let you experience the power of antioxidants, vitamins and fibre in every bite. It’s a welcome addition to Vicar Lane.

Food and drink

North Star Coffee Roasters – Great George Street and Victoria Quarter

One of Leeds most popular B-Corps, North Star Coffee Roasters, will open two new sites this summer: a takeaway-focused kiosk and retail store on Great George Street, serving breakfasts, lunch sandwiches and bakes, and a permanent site in the Victoria Quarter. At a time when many hospitality businesses are scaling back, North Star’s decision is a deliberate response to the demand for high-quality independent experiences. We salute them. 

Domo – Tower Works, Granary Wharf

Fresh from Sheffield, Domo will bring authentic Sardinian cooking and mouthwatering flavours to Granary Wharf. This family-run restaurant, bar and deli specialises in traditional island dishes made the authentic way. Expect hand-folded culurgiones, malloreddus pasta, seafood fregola and spaghetti with sea urchin, alongside Sardinian cured meats, cheeses and the occasional whole suckling pig feast for sharing. 

Dishoom – Vicar Lane

Opening date now set for August! The incredibly popular Bombay-style Indian restaurant Dishoom has been granted planning approval to open its new Leeds location in the former Flannels store on Vicar Lane. Dishoom will bring Bombay’s Irani café culture to the city, complete with its cult classics — Bacon Naan Rolls, House Black Dahl and a new dish made just for Leeds. Expect rich flavours, cinematic décor and queues out the door.

My Delhi – East Parade

The award-winning restaurant My Delhi is set to open in June. The New Hepper House location on East Parade will be the restaurant’s first Yorkshire venue and its biggest opening to date. My Delhi’s menu is inspired by the streets and kitchens of the the Indian capital. We’re certainly looking forward to this taste of authentic India, right here in Leeds.

Uyare/Tharavadu street food concept

So exclusive there’s no name or location yet – you heard it here first! The Uyare/Tharavadu team are working on a new street food concept that expands their culinary universe to include Keralan small bites.

Edges – Bridge Road

Edges, the New York-style pizza joint, has applied for permission to open its first takeaway on Bridge Road in Holbeck. Pre-ordered pizzas will be on the menu if planning is approved – we hope so, following the success of their Green Room residency last year.

Dough Club – Burley Road

The Manchester-based pizza brand, Dough Club, is planning to open a Detroit-style pizza restaurant on Burley Road. Whether you intend to stop by for a quick slice or a pan that feeds everyone, you’ll be able to count on Dough Club soon.

Burgerism –  Meanwood Road

Leeds is not short of burger joints, but the award-winning Burgerism is bringing smashed patties to the suburbs. The Manchester chain will land in Meanwood, just a short walk from The Meanwood Tavern, this summer. Expect smashed patties, wings, fries and house sauces aplenty.

Silver’s Bakehouse – Town Street, Farsley

The award-winning Leeds sandwich shop Silver’s Deli will open a sister spot, Silver’s Bakehouse, on Town Street in Farsley this May. They’ll serve the same giant cookies, sausage rolls, and focaccia pizza slices, and sandwiches you’ve come to love in a similar, pared-back, cool environment.

Sticks ‘n’ Sushi – Vicar Lane

Danish restaurant group Sticks ‘n’ Sushi will open its 18th UK restaurant in the city early next year (2027). Elegant Japandi style and sushi, sashimi and grilled sticks. What’s not to like? It’s a while until it arrives, so watch this space.