Your guide to Leeds / Best places to eat in Leeds
Best places to eat in Leeds
Leeds is a bustling West Yorkshire city with diverse cultural and culinary influences. Its thriving restaurant scene is home to everything from local fish and chip mainstays to quirky international eateries. If you're looking for places to eat in Leeds, you'll have no shortage of enticing options. Start here, with 11 of the best restaurants in Leeds.
Guiseley
Wetherby Whaler: Otley Road, Guiseley
The Wetherby Whaler has been serving guests some of the city's finest fish and chips for more than 40 years. In 2012, the family opened its fifth location in Leeds, at the former site of the historic Harry Ramsdens restaurant. Here you can enjoy budget-friendly (and sustainably raised) fish and chips under crystal chandeliers and century-old stained glass.
Whitkirk
Skyliner Fish and Chip Shop: 15 Austhorpe View
The Skyliner Fish and Chip Shop is a historic, family-run establishment that's made its name in battered fish. The cozy, rustic restaurant serves up wild-caught haddock, among other options, and has an extensive gin menu that's nearly as long as the food menu. Dine here if you want to eat like a local.
Quarry Hill
Aagrah: St Peter's Square, Quarry Hill
If you're in the mood for traditional Indian and Pakistani cuisine, stop by one of Aagrah's three Leeds locations. Here you can sample bold and fragrant dishes from the Kashmiri region. Serve yourself from the buffet or order a generously sized entrée from the main menu. Aagrah has plenty of vegetarian and nonvegetarian options alike and prides itself on using fresh produce and ingredients.
Leeds City Centre
The Reliance: 76-78 North St
Head off the beaten path to this relaxed and rustic dining room and pub for elevated British cuisine. Main menu offerings on the chalkboard menu change seasonally, but The Reliance's renowned home-cured charcuterie platters remain constant. Eat in the quaint dining area, or grab a seat and a bite at the bar.
Ox Club: 19a The Headrow
This award-winning contemporary restaurant features high-end comfort food cooked over a wood fire. Located in a former textile mill, the light and airy establishment focuses on grilled entrees and regional meats and produce. Ox Club's creative menu, serving up anything from langoustines to lamb, changes almost daily.
Crafthouse: 70 Boar Ln
Take in the stunning city views from Crafthouse, a fine dining establishment with a seasonal, locally inspired menu. It's known for its chargrilled meat and fish dishes and fine wines. Enjoy lunch or a pre-theatre meal on the lush outdoor terrace on a nice day, or sample the seven-course tasting menu for dinner.
Tempus Restaurant & Bar: 5 King St
Sip on a cocktail or order an elegant meal at the Tempus Restaurant, located inside The Met Hotel. The Tempus features uniquely British and locally sourced entrees and grill items, as well as seasonal offerings. Here you can find everything from traditional fish and chips to high-end herb-crusted tenderloin in a calming and sophisticated setting.
Roots and Fruits: 10-11 Grand Arcade
Vegetarians and vegans will delight in this plant-based café. For more than 20 years, Roots and Fruits has offered fresh and healthy options in a bright and colorful setting. Many of the dishes, including favorites such as the jerk jackfruit and the whole bowl, are Latin-inspired. Even if you're not vegan, you'll leave Roots and Fruits satisfied after enjoying a hearty meal.
The Ivy: Vicar Ln
If you're looking for a funky place in the heart of town that offers everything from breakfast to afternoon tea to late-night cocktails, head to The Ivy. This two-story icon in Victoria Quarter features vibrant decor and two outdoor terraces. The menus are contemporary British and include plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Bibis Italianissimo: Sovereign St
Bibis is an Italian staple in Leeds, having just celebrated its 45th anniversary. Only here can you enjoy classic Italian fare and live musical entertainment in an art deco and 1920s-inspired setting. Bibis can only be described as opulent, from its three-course Mediterranean and Italian meals to its over-the-top showtime events.
Meanwood
Zucco: 603 Meanwood Rd
At Zucco, traditional Italian dishes meet tapas-style dining in a cozy setting. If you want to escape the bustle of the city center, head to this suburban gem with a group of friends and sample a variety of small plates. Shareables include pizzettes, charcuterie, meats and seafood, as well as vegetarian-friendly sides.
Whether in the heart of the city or off the beaten path, you'll find restaurants in Leeds to suit any palate or budget. From bold curries to the finest fresh catches, you won't go hungry while exploring this industrial and cultural center.