Ok, Ok… we are getting closer to that dreaded C word, which means that we have to get the best eats in right now before everyone goes cranberry and stuffing crazy. By Simon Fogal

Kino 

The newest addition to New Briggate, which is fast becoming an incredible indie gateway to yes, even more indies (North Street we see you) is Kino. Currently serving charcuterie and cheese boards until 14th September after which Street Food sensation MorMor will take over the pots and pans. Think Whole Grilled Mackerel, Rack of Lamb, Batata Kezbara and Roasted Aubergine with Dukkah Crumb. We can’t wait.

Honest Burgers

From their infamous beef burger patties to their incredible fries which Jay Rayner once described as “edible crystal meth,” I was dubious, but after dipping those fries in a rich beef and bacon gravy, this was a perfect Sunday feeling of food coma euphoria. Honest has a simple menu but plant-based burgers, chicken and beer are all here with a mix of local beers and more. Please go. Please have the gravy. 

Well Oiled

Thick pizza slices aren’t a new creation, but they are relatively new to Leeds. Just after lockdown we had a couple of pop-ups around Leeds and they proved hugely popular. Deep cheese crusted sides, rich tomato sauce and various toppings make this pizza style standout and more often than not is served by the slice. 

With Slice Boro only trading at Chow Down till September, where will we get our fix after that? Well fear not for Well-Oiled is opening imminently. Run by the Whitelocks family they have taken over the Meanwood Tavern where there’ll be great beers and slices, what else do you need? 

HOT STUFF

OK I might be over hyping this but watch this space. Most people love a good condiment and ever since lockdown people have been honing their skills. Leeds based Thiccc sauce came about during Covid and they have been making small batch hot sauces, jams and ketchup ever since. Their Sriracha table sauce is always on the table at my house, and the newly released Porco Diavolo (Calabrese hot sauce) is mega. Whilst we’re on the topic of hot sauces, let’s take a moment to big up Little Bao Boy’s incredible Crispy Chilli oil which is great on everything from salads to fried chicken and drizzled over pasta. 

THE OWL

Relocated to canalside near the Temple District and just off Granary Wharf, The Owl sits in Mustard Wharf or ‘built to rent quarter’ as I like to call it. Here, The Owl has grown up and grown into this new, bright spot on the canal. Long gone is the dark space of Leeds market.  It has been given a new sense of freedom thanks to head chef Mark Owens. Less gastro pub, it’s a proper restaurant now. Local produce is king here with an ever-rotating menu, four or five course menu and arguably home to Leeds’ best cheese board.  

Three’s a Crowd  

Once again we are moving away from Leeds and heading north where Three’s a Crowd has been confidently positioned near The Stray in Harrogate for a few years now. This modern gastro pub offers incredible Sunday roasts, a small but perfect lunch menu of small plates (like Korean fried chicken to beef ragu arancini) plus an evening a la Carte menu. The food is great, but the drinks are even better with one of the best wine selections in town plus it has a great little sun trap at the rear.