Where we've been eating in Leeds & Yorkshire

The past couple of months have been packed with brilliant meals, memorable drinks, and plenty of recommendations being swapped between Ellen, Georgia, Lynda, Ellie and Tais.

From sushi and Thai food in Leeds to countryside pubs, wine bars and pizza nights, we've certainly kept ourselves busy.

Here’s a round-up of some of our favourite food and drink spots from the last few months.

Fogo de Chão, Leeds

One of our standout meals was at Fogo de Chão Leeds, where the Brazilian churrasco experience always lives up to the hype. Expect an endless helping of expertly grilled meats brought straight to your table, alongside a generous salad bar and stunning canal-side setting in Granary Wharf. It's a great choice for celebrations, group dining or simply when you're feeling particularly hungry.

🔗 https://fogodechao.uk/location/leeds/

Olive & Thai, Leeds

Tucked away in the beautiful Queens Arcade, Olive & Thai continues to be one of Leeds city centre's best spots for flavour-packed Thai food. From fragrant curries to fresh stir-fries and sharing dishes, it's somewhere we find ourselves recommending again and again. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for both a quick lunch and a longer evening meal.

🔗 https://www.oliveandthai.co.uk/

Fern Modern Sushi, Leeds

Fern Modern Sushi in Central Arcade is a beautifully presented sushi restaurant with high-quality ingredients and a modern approach to Japanese dining, making this a must-visit for sushi lovers. It's one of those places where every dish feels thought through, and if that's not enough to pull you in, you've not yet met Fern, who is incredible!

🔗 https://www.fernmodernsushi.co.uk/

House of Koko, Leeds

Known for its brunches in Chapel Allerton, House of Koko is always a fun choice for breakfast, brunch and lunch with friends. Whether you're stopping by for brunch or in their newly opened city centre branch for a few small plates to make an evening of it, it's become a popular spot on the Leeds food scene.

🔗 https://houseofkoko.co.uk/

Wayward Wines Arch Party

We will freely admit that we weren't cool enough to know about the Wayward Wines Arch Party before Tais introduced us to it. Luckily, he keeps us informed about all the trendy happenings. Great wine, a fantastic atmosphere and plenty of people enjoying the sunshine made for a brilliant afternoon.

🔗 https://www.waywardwines.co.uk/

The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, Leeds

Located within the Whitehall Riverside development, The Whitehall is one of those versatile venues that works equally well for a casual lunch, after-work drinks or dinner with friends. A stylish setting paired with a varied menu makes it an easy recommendation. Somewhere we visited years ago and raved about, it's good to know it has held it's standards - we will definitely be returning.

🔗 https://thewhitehallleeds.com/

Penny Bun, Ilkley

For those willing to venture slightly outside Leeds, Penny Bun in Ilkley continues to impress. Championing seasonal Yorkshire produce, the menu strikes a perfect balance between relaxed dining and special-occasion food. It's the type of place that reminds you just how good local ingredients can be. Make sure to visit for their field to fork menu and their Sunday lunch.

🔗 https://www.pennybun.co.uk/

Empire Café, Leeds

Leeds' café scene remains one of the best around, and Empire Café is a great example of why. Whether you're stopping in for coffee, one of their legendary bacon sandwiches, or a small plate, it's a welcoming space that's perfect for catching up with friends for a cocktail or two.

🔗 https://www.empirecafe.co.uk/

Pipe and Glass, East Yorkshire

A visit to The Pipe and Glass is never a bad idea. This Michelin-starred Yorkshire pub consistently delivers exceptional food without losing the warmth and charm that makes great pubs so special. It's worth the journey every time.

🔗 https://pipeandglass.co.uk/

OBA, Leeds

We can't believe it has taken us so long to try, OBA Leeds is known well in Leeds City Centre. Whether you're visiting for lunch or an evening meal with drinks, it offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of dishes designed for sharing.

🔗 https://obaleeds.co.uk/

The Crowded House

A neighbourhood favourite, The Crowded House remains one of those reliable places where good food, good drinks and a welcoming atmosphere come together effortlessly. As always, a must order is their sharing bread - don't say we didn't tell you!

🔗 https://www.thecrowdedhouse.co.uk/

Rudy's Pizza, Leeds & Harrogate

Between the Leeds and Harrogate locations, we've consumed our fair share of Neapolitan pizzas recently. Soft, charred crusts, simple toppings and excellent ingredients make Rudy's one of the best pizza chains in the country. 

🔗 https://www.rudyspizza.co.uk/

Madre, Leeds

Located in the newly developed area of Wellington Place, Madre serves up vibrant Mexican-inspired food and some seriously good margaritas. The tacos alone are reason enough to visit, but the lively atmosphere keeps us coming back.

🔗 https://www.thisismadre.co.uk/leeds

The Milk Churn, 1607

Ending on a charming countryside note, The Milk Churn 1607 combines history and great food in equal measure. It's the sort of place that feels like a hidden gem and makes for a lovely escape from the city, they've usually got around 16 ice cream flavours on offer, which makes perfect for summer!

🔗 https://themilkchurn.co.uk/

From sushi and Thai food in Leeds to Yorkshire pubs, wine bars and pizza nights, the last couple of months have reminded us just how lucky we are to have so many fantastic independent food and drink venues on our doorstep.

The only problem? Our ever-growing list of places we still want to try.
If you've visited any of these spots recently, let us know your favourites, and if there's somewhere we should add to our summer food bucket list, please get in touch!