Light Night Leeds 2026 returns on 28 and 29 October, transforming the city with spectacular light installations, live performances and creative experiences across some of Leeds' most iconic locations. Visitors can explore a packed programme of indoor and outdoor events as the city comes alive after dark.
While you're planning your route around the artworks and performances, one important question remains: where should you eat during Light Night Leeds?
Whether you're looking for a quick bite between the lights, a cosy restaurant for dinner, street food on the go, or somewhere to warm up with a drink and dessert, Leeds city centre is packed with fantastic independent food spots. In this guide, we're sharing some of the best restaurants, cafés, bars and food spots to visit before, during or after Light Night, helping you make a full evening of one of Leeds' most popular cultural events.
Best Places to Eat During Light Night Leeds 2026
MEAT:STACK
Great with kids!
Image taken from MEAT:STACK
If you're arriving in Leeds by train or looking for somewhere to grab food before heading home, MEAT:STACK is an ideal Light Night pit stop. Located just a short walk from Leeds Station, this popular burger spot serves up American-style smashed burgers, loaded fries and indulgent sides that are perfect when you need a quick, tasty bite.
Kerala Canteen
If you're happy to venture slightly off the main Light Night route, we'd highly recommend booking a table at
Kerala Canteen. Their warming Keralan dishes are exactly what you want on a crisp October evening, and the food is well worth it We still haven't stopped talking about the
beef biryani since our visit; it was THAT memorable. If you're looking to turn Light Night into a proper evening out, this is the place to do it.
Lattitude
Last year,
Latitude's outdoor mulled wine stand was a great for Light Night visitors looking to warm up between the walking. Although it's not yet confirmed for 2026, we're keeping our fingers crossed for its return.
Northern Market
Image taken from @dinewithmegs and Northern Market.
If you're heading to the
Millennium Square (arguably one of the best zones),
Northern Market is a great place to stop for food and drinks during Light Night Leeds. Just a short walk from many of the city's headline installations, this food hall brings together a great selection of independent street food spots, meaning there's something for everyone, whether you're craving burgers, falafel, or pizza. Pair your meal with a refreshing
Northern Monk beer, and you've got the perfect spot to refuel before continuing your Light Night adventure! Northern Market has plenty of indoor seating and a cosy atmosphere; it's an ideal spot to warm you up throughout the trail.
Green Room
For one of the best people-watching spots during Light Night, head to
Green Room. Grab a pint or cocktail and settle in on the heated winter terrace or by the fire pit out front as the crowds pass by. It's the perfect place to pause, warm up and soak up the atmosphere between installations.
Habitum
Image taken from Habitum.
One of our favourite Light Night bites from last year was
Habitum. On our walk back into the city centre from the South Bank, we stopped for one of their special
Light Night hot chocolates and their loaded NYC-style cookies and, honestly, they were incredible. If you're looking for a cosy pick-me-up while exploring the festival, Habitum is well worth adding to your route!
The Tetley
Image taken from The Tetley.
If you're exploring the
South Bank Zone during Light Night Leeds, make time for a stop at
The Tetley. Located in one of the city's most recognisable historic buildings, this Leeds institution is the perfect place to grab a pint, glass of wine or hot drink before heading back out to explore.
The Canary
Make a stop at
The Canary. Overlooking the docks, it's a great place to grab a drink or grab a bite to eat before carrying on your Light Night adventure. With plenty of indoor and some outdoor seating (if you're feeling brave enough), it's a perfect spot to take a break, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the lights.
Wellington Place
Image taken from Madre at Wellington Place.
The
Wellington Place Zone isn't just about the lights. Alongside interactive artwork, you can enjoy free face painting and a family-friendly silent disco throughout the evening - which is super popular with queues every year! When it's time for some food, or a break from having a boogie, you'll be spoilt for choice with
Veeno,
Hoist House,
Madre,
Good Luck Club,
Mad Frans, plus street food traders in Tower Square. It's an ideal stop for food, drinks and a bit of Light Night fun all in one place.
Keep exploring Leeds with Leeds Food Tours
If Light Night has given you a taste for Leeds' amazing food scene, why stop there? Join us on a Leeds Food Tour and discover the independent restaurants, hidden gems and local favourites that make the city such a fantastic place to eat and drink. From unforgettable curries and creative street food to award-winning bakeries and family-run eateries, we'll help you uncover the stories and flavours behind Leeds' thriving food scene.
Hungry for more? Book your Leeds Food Tour today and experience the city one bite at a time.
