Top destinations for fine dining in Leeds
Top destinations for fine dining in Leeds
Fine dining in Leeds has never been so accessible and there’s a place to suit everyone’s budget. If the thought of putting on your glad rags and driving for an hour or more in search of that ‘destination restaurant’ seems a sat-nav nightmare waiting to happen, then the great city of Leeds should be one of your first choices.
With an array of superb independents and award-winning eateries, Leeds should be one of your first places to consider for that upcoming special occasion.
Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Brasserie
Located right in the hustle and bustle of Briggate, Harvey Nichols 4th Floor Brasserie is one of our favourite destinations for fine dining in Leeds. The restaurant interior features stylish seating, slick metal finishes and polka-dot ceiling mirrors, topped off with a stunning view of the city’s skyline. Their seasonal menu is made up of fresh local produce of the highest quality, ensuring every dish you pick, from the delights of spring to home-cooked winter favourites, will please you every time.
107-111 Briggate Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor, Leeds, LS1 6AZ
Blue Pavilion
Blue Pavilion is a standout destination for fine dining in Leeds, offering sophisticated Chinese cuisine. Known for its elegant décor and exceptional service, the restaurant provides a luxurious atmosphere that appeals to food enthusiasts and those seeking a special dining experience.
Each dish is crafted with precision, using high-quality ingredients to create a menu that is both innovative and delicious. Whether you’re savouring their expertly prepared seafood or indulging in a decadent dessert, Blue Pavilion consistently delivers a memorable culinary journey, making it a top choice for fine dining in the city.
90 Merrion St, Leeds LS2 8LW – 0113 887 6888
Dakota Grill
Priding themselves on their contemporary, elegant style and grill, Dakota offers a fine dining experience across their range of menus. This award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar is only steps away from Leeds Trinity Center, a prime location for those who live locally and keen foodie visitors alike.
Their ‘simply Dakota’ menu uses fresh ingredients to create stand-out dishes, wild mushroom gnocchi, sea trout with seaweed butter sauce and desserts including a dreamy chocolate moose. Whether you want to discover their decadent five-course tasting menu or stick with what you know and love, you won’t be disappointed.
8 Russell St, LS1 5RN, Leeds, 0113 322 6261
Shears Yard
Shear’s Yard is one of the city’s first restaurants to showcase fine dining in Leeds. Tucked away just off The Calls within a stunning venue that oozes atmosphere and welcome, with its exposed brickwork, string lights and friendly staff. Shears Yard’s menus continually evolve, guided by seasonality and local produce. Inspired by both classic and more unusual flavour combinations brought together by their experienced kitchen team.
Shears Yard, 11-15 Wharf St, Leeds LS2 7EH – 0113 244 4144
Tattu
This stunning contemporary Chinese restaurant is located within the heart of the city centre. Fusing traditional Asian flavours with exquisite presentation. Exclusive Chef Clifton Muil and the team have created a decadent 4-Course ‘Emperor’ menu to showcase some of the finest ingredients in one of Leeds hottest locations. On this menu, you can expect to find tuna sashimi blossom, mixed dim sum, Japanese black wagyu and a white chocolate dragon egg. Why not plan your visit to one of the best fine dining destinations in Leeds.
Minerva, 29 E Parade, Leeds LS1 5PS – 0113 245 1080
Owl
Owl is a small, relaxed, yet lively dining room located Lockside next to Leeds’ canal. Serving modern British food, using the best local fish, meat and game.
Visitors to Owl can enjoy great food with floor-to-ceiling views of the canal in its urban waterfront setting. Just a stone’s throw away from Leeds train station, the restaurant location reflects the traditional heritage of Leeds with one of the city’s most vibrant, modern developments. And the food is no different, utilising the familiar flavours of Yorkshire nostalgia but taking them into the future.
Forget your regular beef wellington, opt for the bread wellington with celeriac, Waldorf dressing, lovage and dumplings and swap your regular roast beef dinner for beef and oysters with oyster leaf mayonnaise, bordelaise sauce and beef fat potato.
Owl is led by Head Chef Mark Owens, who opened up The Owl originally with business partner Elizabeth Cottam.
Lockside, Mustard Wharf, Mustard Approach LS1 4EY – 0113 531 6621
Crafthouse
Located on the fifth floor of Trinity Leeds shopping centre, Crafthouse is a strong contender for the best restaurant for fine dining in Leeds. Crafthouse offers a regularly changing seasonal British menu and stunning views across the city. Together with super attentive service, stylish interior and a wine list that’s just as good as the food.
Crafthouse, 70 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6HW – 0113 897 0444
The Ivy Asia
If you’re searching for amazing Asian-inspired food, striking cocktails and exciting live music, The Ivy Asia in Leeds is the place to be. Whether you’re looking to lunch with friends or reserve a romantic dinner on an evening, this Asian spot is sure to become your new favourite restaurant. The Ivy Asia, which is in Leeds’ Victorian Quarter, is well situated for shopping, visitors and locals alike. Offering an amazing fusion of flavours surrounded by awe-inspiring decor. Although they may be new to the scene, they are unquestionably one of the best restaurants for fine dining in Leeds.
55-57 Vicar Ln, Leeds LS1 6BA – 0113 531 7990
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Written by
01/08/2023