Review: Smokin Bar & Kitchen, Leeds  

Smokin Bar Leeds Review, New Restaurants Leeds, Written by Rosita Rogers, follow on Twitter @zitttttta – 

Review: Smokin Bar & Kitchen, Leeds

The hospitality scene in Leeds is currently expanding at a rate faster than any other in the UK, and our newest member, goes by the name of SMOKIN. Situated above Bierkeller on Park Row/the Headrow, it may be one of the largest bars in that area. My memory has failed in recalling what was there before, but it’s very spacious so ideal for big group bookings, hen dos, stag dos, casual lunch or dinner, the lot.


The name says it all. American style smoked burgers, steaks and occasionally, cocktails. Their interior is predominantly copper based, neon lights and skulls. I had initially thought it’d be another Meatliquor or Reds, but it isn’t really. In pure Yorkshire style we felt very welcome. There was no pretentiousness, and the atmosphere was informal and relaxing.
Whilst I love smoked chicken wings and ribs, I opted for a burger, chips, a healthy side of greens, and their signature Bloody Mary to go with it. All went down easily, and quick. Portion sizes weren’t overly generous, which is ideal when carbs are involved, and the drink wasn’t really spiced or garnished to the standard one would expect in a cocktail bar, which means if you like to avoid anything too adventurous in a cocktail or your food, you’d be more than happy with what they have to offer. Instead of going for a dessert, I opted for a cocktail that proved to be the most perfect boozy dessert cocktail I have ever had! Everything sweet in a glass – expect Baileys, Kahlua, cream…maybe a bit too much of it so make sure you share.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t there to watch any of the live music, but from what I’d seen online, they have saxophonists, pianists and bands play on a weekly basis, along with DJ’s to get you dancing all throughout the night. With it being such a large venue, I wouldn’t really say it caters to a niche, but more of passers-by and people who might not know Leeds too well and haven’t had a chance to explore the smaller more independent venues, so with that I don’t think it’d be somewhere I’d frequent regularly. I would encourage visitors to try it out though, as it’s close to Town Hall and worth visiting if you are heading up that way.
The Smokin Bar and Kitchen, 1 South Parade, Leeds LS1 5QB – 0845 533 3000
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Smokin Bar Leeds Review, New Restaurants Leeds, Written by Rosita Rogers, follow on Twitter @zitttttta –