Whether you’re looking for a solid cup of joe to sip over a leisurely chat with your newest connection, a feeding hole that will suit everyone on your team, or somewhere quiet to get down to business – these Leeds restaurants, cafes and bars are some of the best places to hunker down, grab a bite, or sup something nice.
Just around the corner from Leeds Train Station sits the quaint pub cafe, The Brew Society. It’s one of the cosiest places in the city centre – and one of the calmest. The bar promises expert-made coffee, whether it’s a cappuccino or an americano you’re after, while the board tells you all you need to know about their extensive beer offering. Wooden floors, moody walls and warm lighting make this the ideal location for a chilled, quiet coffee or pint.
If you’re down by Leeds Dock, you need not look further than Fearns for all your food and drink needs both during and after the workday. They serve up locally sourced food alongside beer, cocktails and coffee – all great in equal measure. Whether it’s a catch-up over brekkie or a team lunch, Fearns is a fab place to grab a bite or drink around these parts – especially if you find yourself at co-working space Department.
Turn right out of Leeds Train Station and you can’t miss the bright yellow delight that is Laynes Espresso. Head inside and you’ll be greeted by an immaculate pastry and bake selection, the sound of the baristas pouring up beautiful lattes, and a food menu full of goodies. We’re talking some of the best French toast, full breakfasts and Turkish eggs in the city – perfect for those empty-belly meet-ups with colleagues or connections.
Entire teams of meat lovers (but pescetarians, veggies and vegans too!) can rejoice at Fazenda, the go-to Brazilian steakhouse in Leeds. Here you can treat your gang to all manner of South American pleasures for lunch or dinner, including their Churrasco experience, where delicious meats are carved right at your table.
If pub grub is more up your street, take the team to the historic Leeds brewhouse that is The Tetley for treats like the steak & Tetley Best Bitter pie, aubergine parmo and honey roast gammon with Tetley gravy, all made to be eaten with a sup of Tetley’s own brews – if you so wish.
When the sun’s out in Leeds, there are few better places to go than Avenue HQ’s rooftop bar from local crowd-favourite, IF Up North. It’s drinks all around here, with all your usual cocktails and wines, and beers. It’s walk-ins only and heating during the cool nights and winter days makes this a year-round affair for all your business needs, with stunning views of Leeds Town Hall and more. And if you’re working out of Avenue HQ, it’s just a trip up the elevator away!
If wine’s your thing, Latitude is the go-to in Leeds. This gem is known for selling the good stuff by the bottle, but what some might not know is you can make your way inside to The Tasting Room Bar to treat yourself and your company to some of the really good stuff. Red, pink and white are served by the glass or flight – though aperitifs, spirits and cocktails are also an option. All go down lovely with the Latitude cheese board, full of local dairy treats, or choose from their selection of quality charcuterie from nearby Ilkley.
Make a beeline from Leeds Train Station to find Friends of Ham – the destination for enjoyers of a drink with nibbles. Charcuterie is their business and that means plentiful plates of parma ham and prosciutto with olives, pickles and chunky slices of crusty bread to dip in olive oil, crackers, and of course, lots of cheese. Drink options range from local beers to wines of every sort, so you and your guests can meet and enjoy the finer things.
If you’re looking for somewhere exclusive in Leeds City Centre, look no further than Iberica’s private dining experience. Set in the stunning 19th-century Hepper House, this stylish Spanish restaurant offers all your tapas favourites alongside a whole host of magnificent dishes. Their private Hepper Room seats up to 26 and if you really want to take it up a notch, check out their monthly specials.
Modern British is what’s on the menu at The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, a lovely spot just five minutes away from Leeds Train Station. The chefs here use classic ingredients to create simple yet imaginative dishes, including daily specials which showcase their passion for food and ensure you can enjoy the freshest quality produce.
Whether it’s you and a client, new connection, or colleague, quiet conversations go perfectly with the French fare at Sous Le Nez. This underground brasserie is hidden in Quebec House, just down the street from Leeds Train Station. Their menu is full of classics, take beef bourguignon for example, and of course, wine directly from France to wash it down with, all in sophisticated surroundings.
If you and your company are fans of a cocktail or two, Tabula Rasa makes a proper treat for any affair. Whether you like it fruity or floral, or prefer a glass of something more classic, their liquor aficionados are whirling up tip-top ‘tails, made to be enjoyed in the lush green setting. The Eastgate location makes it particularly ideal for those catching buses or running for the last train home.
Italian coffee done right is what La Bottega Milanese is all about. From Bond Court to Park House, these Leeds cafes are nothing if not chic, making them the ideal settings for those all-important chats meant to be had over a proper cup of coffee. Their pastries are a must and both of their locations are dog friendly, so you can bring the office dog along too.
The Queens Hotel is a Leeds icon – just off the train station, this historic building will give your visiting clients an impressive, warm welcome. Inside, the lush Grand Pacific is nothing less than the name suggests, bragging oomphs of old-timely flair with ornate wallpaper and furnishings. On top of drinks and coffee, they offer high tea, small bites, lunch and dinner, with the food taking inspiration from near and far.
What ever it is you’re looking for, these Leeds restaurants, bars and cafes have got you sorted. Got recommendations of your own? Tell us about them on social media.