Tucked away just off The Calls, in the cooler side of town, Shears Yard is located in a stunning 18-century building that oozes atmosphere and style. With poured concrete floors, exposed brickwork and an array of filament bulbs to set the scene of an enchanting time ahead.

Don’t be fooled by the ‘fine dining’ description, Shears Yard has been a firm favourite in Leeds not just for their food but their welcoming and friendly team, atmospheric and lively restaurant. What’s more, your purse strings will be as happy as your tastebuds with their dishes very reasonably priced. A true Leeds gem.

11-15 Wharf St, Leeds LS2 7EH – 0113 244 4144

When to go: For the incredible value prix fixe, or on one of their event nights

What to have: The chicken schmaltz

Don’t let the concrete ceilings, sparse foliage, wooden shutters and stickleback chairs deceive you. Ox Club is hands down one of the best restaurants in Leeds. The laid back vibes befit a menu of seasonal ingredients, carefully prepared with real skill. Book in for their popular Chop Night featuring ex-dairy Swaledale beef, or the North Sea bountiful Fish Supper. This young team elevate anything from truffle mac and cheese to a simple Basque cheesecake. And the sides are just as magical.

19a The Headrow, Leeds LS1 6PU – 0113 487 1814

When to go: On a clear day for ultimate roof-top views

What to have: Three courses of their seasonally changing menu, dessert is a must

Located in the stunning Victoria Quarter, Harvey Nichols isn’t just about designer handbags. The first of the department store chain to open outside of London, it’s the vantage point for jaw-dropping vistas across Leeds.

With seasonal delicacies to suit everyone’s taste, you must experience their artfully plated desserts, such as dark chocolate and olive oil tart, and blackberry iced parfait with roasted apples, cinnamon and ginger crumble.

07 – 111 Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6AZ – 0113 204 8000

When to go: A midweek treat, or sublime Sunday lunch.

What to have: The menu changes with the seasons so you’ll never need to have the same dish twice.

The former Reliance manages to strike the fine balance between executing faultless of-the-moment dishes, with effortless approachability. This neighbourhood gastropub and restaurant showcases beautiful ingredients from across God’s Own County. With a great selection of ever-evolving small plates, main-course dishes, signature staples, decadent desserts and local cheeses. Their wines are exceptional too.

76-78 North St, Leeds LS2 7PN – 0113 295 6060

When to go: For a family outing or after-work drinks

What to have: The homemade artigianale gelato

Build your own Antipasti platter, or gorge on mini beef sliders dripping in melted fontina cheese. Leave room for a difficult decision between the traditional Stracciatella or the Yogurt Amerena Cherry gelato. The adults among us can enjoy a Milanese Aperitivo hour (basically a free buffet to complement post-work drinks.)

Granary Wharf, Leeds, LS1 4BR

When to go: With a big group of friends

What to have: The arm length dosa pancakes

Sitting under a jingly truck roof dressed with kaleidoscopic flowers and calligraphy, you’ll forget you’re in Leeds’ business district. And at the Indian Tiffin Room’s menu is just as colourful. This is not your average Indian restaurant.

Try the cool crunchy samosa chaat or the puri platter, sprinkled with ruby red pomegranate seeds. Then the street food staple, the dosa of dreams, paper-thin and stuffed with a choice of lentils, chutney, or masala potatoes. Their menu is designed for sharing, so get lot of small plates ordered and tuck in.

1-32 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JD – 0113 397 2000

When to go: When impressing clients

What to have: The black pepper honey ribs

No, not the Russian duo of millennium chart fame, but the modern Chinese bar and restaurant, which has become a place to be seen amongst the socialites of Leeds. With its stunning pink cherry blossom canopy and inventive cocktail list, it’s worth a visit any time of year. The fusion menu is crafted with precision and true attention to detail. Renowned as one of the best restaurants in Leeds.

Minerva, 29 E Parade, Leeds LS1 5PS – 0113 245 1080

When to go: For date night or Sunday lunch

What to have: Chefs Table, a set menu of their favourite dishes.

Owl is led by Head Chef Mark Owens who opened the restaurant with business partner Elizabeth Cottam (chef patron of HOME and CORA). Located Lockside next to Leeds’ canal, Owl serves modern British food, using the best local fish, meat and game.

Showcased in their fantastic menu fit for an intimate five-course meal for you and that special person. Or have the Sunday lunch to beat all others with their four-course array of the finest Yorkshire has to offer.

Guests can enjoy great food with floor-to-ceiling views of the canal in its urban waterfront setting.

Lockside Mustard Approach, Leeds LS1 4EY

When to go: On a date

What to have: Raclette

What better way to introduce yourself than by opening a bottle of Rioja or Belgian beer, and a plate of pan-fried potatoes covered with melted Ogleshield cheese. We love Friends Of Ham for its fantastic quality meats, cheeses and pintxos to get the conversation flowing. The brunch and weekly dessert specials are also not to be missed.

Address: 4-8 New Station St, Leeds LS1 5DL – 0113 242 0275

When to go: On a romantic night away

What to have: A whopping great steak

Dakota Bar and Grill within the luxury boutique city centre hotel oozes sex appeal. Hollywood icons gracing the dark walls, velvet furnishings and leather booths perfect for sipping a glass or two of their Billecart Salmon house Champagne. The menu is a grown-up take on the classics, and you won’t want to miss their famous steaks cooked in a flash over hot coals. Chateaubriand for two?

Greek St, Leeds LS1 5RU – 0113 322 6261

When to go: For a special occasion

What to have:  Spanish Afternoon Tea with a glass of cava

Iberica offers the best in Spanish cuisine with seasonal gastronomic tapas and a selection of artisan produce and wines, some of which are unique to the British market.

Located in a former antique house rich in character and features. Iberica is one of the most striking restaurants to dine in Leeds with excellent food to match.

Set over two floors, with La Bodega, a beautiful deli and wine bar in the basement offering food and drink sourced from the best Spanish suppliers, and a restaurant set beneath an incredible lightwell on the ground floor. Iberica’s menu ranges from classic tapas dishes to traditional paella, full a la carte and a sumptuous drinks menu.

Hepper House, 17a E Parade, Leeds LS1 2BH – 0113 403 7007

When to go: For a special occasion

What to have: One of the signature wine flight pairings

HOME restaurant in Leeds is lead by chef patron Elizabeth Cottam, serving an ever-evolving tasting menu experience in a beautiful location, next to the River Aire.

Expect frequently changing eight to twelve-course tasting menus, which shrewdly pair familiar flavours with surprising textures.

3 Brewery Place, Leeds, LS10 1NE – 0113 430 0161

When to go: On a Friday night after a long day at work

What to have: Their traditional Thali’s are not to be missed

Tharavadu is a multi-award-winning restaurant in Leeds city centre where you will experience the flavours of traditional Keralan cuisine.

As the first authentic Keralan restaurant in Leeds, Tharavadu became one of the favourite dining spots in Leeds, in a very short space of time. Recommended by regional and national press, as well as a glowing review from the Michelin Guide.

7-8, Mill Hill, Leeds LS1 5DQ – 0113 244 0500

When to go: When you’re in need of a little getaway.

What to have: Sunday lunch, which includes unlimited starters from their chef’s table

Just a stone’s throw away from Leeds train station is the stylish, boutique hotel Malmaison Leeds. Home to over 100 modern rooms, here you’ll find one of the best restaurants in Leeds.

Serving up a mixture of classic British cuisine and fresh Mediterranean flavours, treat your tastebuds to a selection of antipasti, seafood and perfectly grilled dishes. If classics are what you’re after, the Sunday lunch boasts striking flavours using the best seasonal produce.

1 Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG – 0113 426 0047

When to go: For Nonna’s birthday

What to have: Lobster Ravioli

Open seven days a week, this expansive Italian dining destination is the epitome of authentic Italian cooking. With a mix of seasonal Yorkshire produce, and quality ingredients are flown in from the markets of Sicily and Milan, you’ll find an array of seafood, fresh pasta, and trattoria classics. Up in Roundhay, San Carlo Flying Pizza impressive covered outdoor terrace is the place to be when the sun is shining.

San Carlo, Leeds City Centre – 6-7 South Parade, Leeds LS1 5QX – 0113 246 1500
San Carlo Flying Pizza – 60 Street Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2DQ – 0113 266 6501

When to go: For a great value pre-theatre meal

What to have: The arancini

The brainchild of the guys behind two of Leeds’ indie giants, Laynes and The Brunswick, Sarto is the Northern answer to London pasta bars Padella and Pastaio. Radiatori, bucatini, fettuccine, Sarto master it all, with a tantalising supply of snacks and spritz to boot.

Munro House, Duke St, Leeds LS9 8AG – 0113 345 2074

When to go: Friday & Saturdays

What to have: Japanese afternoon tea

D&D group have drafted in executive chef Ben Orpwood, behind some of the capital’s top Asian restaurants. Issho promises modern Japanese fare to be shared with a crowd. With its spectacular roof terrace overlooking Kirkgate market, Kori bar boasting the biggest sake collection in Leeds, and immersive Sushi counter, Issho seamlessly takes you from weekend brunch with friends to twilight cocktails with colleagues.

Victoria Gate 3rd Floor Rooftop, George St, Leeds LS2 7AU – 0113 426 5000

When to go: On a Saturday night

What to have: Their seven-course tasting menu for the whole table

Crafthouse celebrates the very best of British and sat high above Trinity shopping centre, it too celebrates the best of Leeds’ historic influence and architecture. Known for their stylish presentation, floral interiors, and Angelica, the swish panoramic cocktail bar above, head up in their private scenic lift, and you’re in for a treat. A must on our best restaurants in Leeds list.

Level 5, Trinity, 70 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6HW – 0113 897 0444

When to go: When your feeling venturous

What to have: O’Hare’s accomplished tasting menu (squid ink guaranteed)

So who is the man behind the curtain? Well, it’s the one Michelin starred, Redcar born and bred, chef-patron Micheal O’Hare. You might have seen him on The Great British Menu. You’ve probably caught word of his modernist approach to cuisine, or his unorthodox video campaigns. Either way, you should try his food. As the only Michelin Star restaurant in West Yorkshire, this is of course one of Leeds’ top restaurants.

68-78 Vicar Lane Lower Ground Floor Flannels LS1 7JH – 0113 243 2376

When to go: With mates

What to have: Bundo Chaat

Everyone in Leeds loves Bundo. From its long wooden benches and patio heaters to their compostable crockery and craft beer on tap, it’s the ideal place to chill out with your pals whilst munching on some seriously good street food. Look out for their Gujerati take on seasonal specials, like pumpkin samosas and sprout bhajis.

6 Mill Hill, Leeds LS1 5DQ – 0113 243 1248

When to go: At Christmas when it’s all green and gold and twinkly

What to have: The chocolate bombe

The Ivy has been popular ever since it opened its doors on Vicar Lane in 2018. Offering an impressive hotel-style all-day dining menu, The Ivy takes you from buttermilk pancakes to Irish coffee with a touch of art-deco glamour. Don’t forget to check out their gin and tonic selection!

Vicar Ln, Leeds LS1 6BB – 0113 388 6222

When to go: When you need a little Spanish sunshine in your life

What to have: Their next-level patatas bravas

Amid the banks and businesses on Park Row, Spanish aficionado and award-winning chef Simon Shaw has brought us a taste of Catalonia and the Basque country. On Saturdays between 12 and 4, you can experience their Tipsy Tapas – 3 tapas dishes and unlimited drinks. What’s not to like? A new addition to our best restaurants in Leeds guide.

35 Park Row, Leeds LS1 5JL – 0113 322 0763

When to go: When you’re in the mood for a different kind of curry

What to have: Puris to start and lamb Xacuti for the main

De Baga’s first restaurant in Headingley was such a hit, they pretty much had no choice but to open a second location in Chapel Allerton. That’s two great spots where you can find some of the best Indian food, classic Goan flavors with a modern twist. With a massive variety from land to sea. From rich buttery fish curries to a huge array of tantalising little bites, you’re truly spoiled for choice with this one!

8b Stainbeck Ln, Chapel Allerton, Leeds LS7 3QY

9 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3AA

When to go: When you want to change a carnivores opinion of vegetarian cooking

What to have: Gujlawa

With two cookbooks, two AA Rosettes, a Bib Gourmand, popular Vegetarian cookery classes, their own Garam Masala blend on sale, and a dedication to serving their local Bradford community, this could be one of the most hard-working families in the business. If you’re looking for fragrant, authentic Gujarati cuisine, Prashad will exceed all your expectations.

137 Whitehall Rd, Drighlington, Bradford BD11 1AT – 0113 285 2037

When to go: For a celebratory lunch

What to have: A bottle of the house red

On the corner of Meanwood Road, this family-run Italian serve a fantastic selection of fresh, handmade Cicchetti, with outstanding wines. Try their ox-cheek, pea and grana padano risotto, or jewelled frangipane, chocolate and pistachio tart. A real neighbourhood gem and a must on our list of Leeds best restaurants.

603 Meanwood Rd, Meanwood, Leeds LS6 4AY – 0113 224 9679

When to go: Saturday night

What to have: Their four-course tasting menu

Salvo’s have captured the heart of Headingley, but step into their Salumeria and Cafe jam-packed with artisan oils, jars of olives, an assortment of colourful dried pasta, and snow-white balls of mozzarella, and you could be ambling down a Sicilian street. Don’t miss their regional deli nights and tasting menus, where you can experience the flavours and tastes of Mezzogiorno.

115 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3PX – 0113 275 5017

When to go: If you’re looking to impress

What to have: The full Omakase Tasting Course

Hana Matsuri might just be the best-kept sushi secret in Leeds. Owned by Chef Kaoru Nakamura, whose sheer skill and dexterity is showcased via an Omakase dining experience, where you can expect an elegant, seasonal Japanese feast of the very highest quality.

580 Meanwood Rd, Meanwood, Leeds LS6 4AZ

When to go: For an intimate meal

What to have: The homemade foraged fruit sodas

This incongruous little bistro really is like placing yourself in the hands of the food Gods. With former Roops baker Rab in the kitchen, and drinks expert Shaun in front of house, don’t be fooled by the bare brick walls and paired back furnishings. Hern elevates beautiful local ingredients alongside Wayward wines via their ever-changing chalkboard of set menus, Wednesday to Saturday.

Stainbeck Corner, 5, Leeds LS7 3PG – 0113 262 5809