word on the str-eat
With the arrival of some exciting new restaurants and bars in Leeds, foodie and lifestyle influencer Lucy Bostock takes a look at some of her favourite wining and dining haunts.
Follow Lucy on instagram @letting.luce
SONDER
Whilst new openings are always exciting, I think it’s important to make sure we keep shouting from the rooftops about the brilliant places we already have here in Leeds. Sonder Coffee and Interiors store located inside Grand Arcade has to be one of the most beautiful coffee shops I’ve ever been to, and I just adore its perfect blend of cosy and chic.
The designs are simply stunning, the coffee always delicious and the bonus is you can have a little snoop at all the beautiful homeware bits they sell. Dotted all over the space you’ll find vases, mugs and more which have been crafted by independents and make gorgeous gifts. Tucked in one of the city’s best arcades and surrounded by lots of other very special independents, It’s the perfect spot for a catch up over a flat white and flaky pastry.
HOUSE OF KOKO
I’m so happy Central Road is coming back to life again with some of the best businesses, tucked away in this great city centre location and the arrival of House of Koko late last year has only added to its appeal.
You’ve probably already visited or at least heard of this much-loved brunch spot after the success of their two other sites in Oakwood and Chapel Allerton and I couldn’t have been happier to see them open in the heart of Leeds.
Well known for their hashbrowns and ever-changing menu that really switches up the traditional dishes we can sometimes tire of, there is nothing boring about the flavours and presentation here. It is fast becoming one of my favourite Sunday hangouts with the Mimosa cocktails and virtually everything else on their magical menu, coming highly recommended.
MADRE
When I think of fun places to eat and drink, two things instantly spring to mind…tacos and tequila and so I could barely contain my excitement when Madre landed in Leeds last month..
With popular sites in Manchester and Liverpool already,
I expect this Mexican livewire on Wellington Place to fit right into the Leeds food scene.
Mexican food is up there as a favourite for me and these guys are known for their proper authentic, Mexico City style dishes which I can’t wait to try. With a vibrant design and all geared towards bringing people together to enjoy delicious Mexican dishes and an extensive tequila menu, I know exactly where me and my friends will be heading to party this summer!
VINYL GROUNDS
I’m taking you back to Central Road, because as I mentioned earlier, this location is having its moment in the spotlight, and I couldn’t be happier. Last year blessed the city centre with this wonderful coffee by day and wine by night spot and I’ve found myself nestled in the window seat here a handful of times since. It’s quickly becoming one of my favourites and the owners are the friendliest couple who light up the space with their energy, choice of vinyl records and interior design skills. Inspired after visiting and falling in love with New York coffee shops, this is such a unique spot with the added bonus of turning into a wine bar at night.
So next time you find yourself in town, make sure to stop by on your coffee run to fuel your day or make it the last thing you do for a glass of wine before you head home.
TORI NORI
This is not a drill, my absolute, hands down, must-visit, number one restaurant Fern Modern Sushi is gaining a sister diner right here in Leeds city centre. Just up from Merrion Street, where the Old Red Bus Station used to be, will be Tori Nori, a Japanese modern grill offering robata-style dining with interactive cooking, which I can’t wait to visit. There is still a lot to find out about Tori Nori but with someone like Fern herself behind it, I have absolutely no doubt that it’s going to be a huge success.
Meanwhile, if you haven’t already been to Fern Modern Sushi which I have raved about in previous issues, please don’t miss out on this special place which is packed out most evenings for a reason.
