Federal Leeds review: A New Zealand–Inspired brunch that Leeds has been waiting for

(ad/gifted meal) Leeds has a brand‑new brunch spot in tow, and it’s a beauty. Federal Café & Bar has finally crossed the Pennines, bringing its New Zealand/Australian-inspired brunch vibe to Boar Lane. If you’ve queued for Federal in Manchester, you’ll know why this is exciting: think sunny service, standout coffee and a menu packed with all‑day favourites.

A quick first look (and why we’re so excited)

We first visited Federal about 10 years ago when they launched in Manchester, and have been fans ever since, so we were over the moon to hear they were opening in Leeds city centre. The new café sits at 34 Boar Lane with that bright, leafy Federal look, an open kitchen and an all‑day brunch line‑up (French toast, steak & eggs, halloumi & shrooms, rotating specials) that’s already drawing crowds. It’s a serious new addition to the Leeds brunch scene. 

What we ate & drank (prices + picks)

• Cheddar corn fritters with smoked salmon — £18.00 (stacked with avo, poached eggs, sweet chilli, cucumber sop and lime sour cream). A colourful, crunchy‑soft plate.
• Halloumi & Shrooms on Toast — £14.50 (garlic‑thyme mushrooms, poached eggs, Fed sauce, dukkah, sourdough). Comforting and savoury. 

To drink, Georgia went nostalgic with a cold Milo (a chocolate‑malt drink originally created in Australia; it’s typically mixed with milk or water for a malty, chocolatey energy boost), while Ellen had a classic mimosa. If you haven’t met Milo before, it’s Nestlé’s chocolate‑flavoured malted powder. Hugely popular across Australasia, served hot or cold.

Allergen care (gluten‑free awareness that feels reassuring)

The vibe is warm and relaxed, and the team were clued up on allergens. We asked about gluten‑free options and also flagged Ellen’s avocado and tomato allergy; the staff communicated it clearly across the team, so everything felt safe. Federal’s own guidance asks guests with allergies to order at the till rather than online (a good sign they take it seriously), which mirrors our experience of careful service. 

The novelty factor: canned matcha (and canned coffee)

One more reason Federal Leeds is such a good fit for 2026 brunch culture: they’ve become known for canned iced matcha, a social‑media hit in Manchester, and they’re bringing that same product to Leeds. We can’t wait to go back and try the canned matcha (and canned coffee). It’s fun, portable and very 2026.

Federal is a great addition to Leeds

From Kiwi/Aussie café culture to carefully crafted coffee and friendly, allergen‑aware service, Federal Leeds already feels like one of the best brunch spots in Leeds. If you’re hunting for a New Zealand–inspired brunch with proper coffee and modern touches (hello, canned matcha), put this on your weekend list.

Where: 34 Boar Lane, Leeds city centre.
Find Federal here.