Valentine’s Day in Leeds 2026: Romantic date ideas, hidden gems & the ultimate food tour experience

Valentine’s Day in Leeds is the perfect excuse to escape the ordinary and treat your partner to something memorable. Whether you’re planning your first date-night together or looking to reignite some romantic spark, the city is bursting with cosy restaurants, hidden gems, and intimate drinking spots.

But this year, our Valentine’s experience stands out above the rest:

A guided or self‑guided food tour in Leeds - the ultimate Valentine’s gift

With more couples choosing experience gifts over traditional presents, food tours are rapidly becoming one of the most popular gift-based ideas in the city. Shared experiences help couples connect in a deeper, more memorable way, and a food tour offers everything you could want in a romantic date: discovery, adventure, and of course, delicious food.

Whether you choose a guided tour filled with interesting stories and insider recommendations, or a self‑guided tour that lets you wander hand‑in‑hand at your own pace, it’s the perfect blend of romance, fun, and flavour.

And the best part? It’s a Valentine’s gift that isn’t just opened; you'll experience it together!

Romantic independent restaurants in Leeds

Kendells Bistro

Nothing says romance like a candlelit French brasserie, and Kendells Bistro delivers in every detail. Tucked away near the Playhouse, its flickering candles, handwritten chalkboard menus, and warm, intimate atmosphere feel like stepping straight into Paris.

Expect rich, decadent dishes like cassoulet, crème brûlée, and melt‑in‑the-mouth confit duck. Perfect for couples who want something classic, atmospheric, and a just a touch indulgent.

Find out more about Kendells Bistro here.

Stuzzi Leeds

If you’re after passion, bold flavours and a cosy, independent vibe, Stuzzi is a dream choice. This Italian restaurant celebrates authentic regional dishes, small plates, and great wine, ideal for sharing, chatting, and lingering long past dessert. Its relaxed, stylish setting makes it one of the best romantic restaurants in Leeds for couples who care as much about ambience as the food.

If you're busy on Saturday 14th, we spotted they're doing a Piedmontese tasting dinner in collaboration with Braida. It's a five course wine tasting dinner with traditional food on Tuesday 17th February at 7pm. We've actually booked on after a recent trip to Torino and can't wait to sample some of the regions fantastic food and drink.

Discover Stuzzi for Italian food in Leeds here.

Find out more about the Braida wine dinner here.

A unique Valentine’s activity: Leeds Playhouse or Hyde Park Picture House

For couples who love culture, creativity, or a touch of nostalgia, round off your romantic day with an experience:

• Leeds Playhouse offers world‑class theatre performances, perfect if you want a night filled with storytelling and atmosphere.
• Hyde Park Picture House, with its beautifully restored historic cinema and warm glow, is ideal for a classic Valentine’s date. Watching a film under its iconic gas lamps feels irresistibly romantic.

A cosy Leeds bar for a nightcap: The Domino Club

Hidden behind a barber shop, The Domino Club is one of Leeds’ best-kept secrets, dark, intimate, and full of character. Expect live jazz, low lighting, and beautifully mixed cocktails. It’s the perfect bar to end your Valentine’s night, tucked away together in a booth with a drink in hand.

Book your place at the Domino Club in Leeds.

Make this Valentine’s Day in Leeds truly unforgettable

With Leeds buzzing with romantic restaurants, cultural hideaways, and 'moody' bars, you’re spoiled for choice, but nothing is better than spending Valentine's Day together.

That’s why our guided or self‑guided food tours are the perfect Valentine’s Day idea this year. It’s romantic, memorable and an experience to gift or look forward to this year.

Find out more and browse all food tours here.

Whether you’re planning the perfect date or looking for a thoughtful Valentine's gift, Leeds has everything you need to make 14th February unforgettable.