While we lost some treasured businesses along the way, the city welcomed some fabulous new places to eat, cementing its place as the foodie capital of the North (in our humble opinion).
From new pizza joints to fine-dining, there are so many new spots to get stuck into this year.
Here, we round up 23 of the best restaurants that opened in 2023.
13. Farmhouse
One of Harrogate’s most popular brunch restaurants opened its second site in Leeds in September, kicking off a busy autumn for new openings. The independent restaurant, which specialises in brunches, breakfasts and all-day dishes, moved into the former ASK Italian on Lands Lane. Photo: James Hardisty
14. Wendy's
Everyone was talking about burger chain Wendy's when it returned to Leeds in September as part of its UK expansion. The Briggate restaurant serves its signature Wendy’s menu including the square beef burgers and spicy chicken nuggets. Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Craig Rogan at The Collective
The former executive chef at Dakota Hotel and the YEP's Chef of the Year 2023 launched his new fine-dining experience in September, taking over the kitchen at Boar Lane cafe-bar. As well as two tasting menus, he's created an all-day brunch menu and a la carte menu. Photo: Tony Johnson
16. Blue Pavilion
This new fine-dining restaurant opened in the Merrion Centre in October, from the team behind Blue Sakura. The impressive £3million venue celebrates East Asian cuisine and signature dishes include dim sum platters and Peking duck. Photo: Blue Pavilion
17. Pizza Pilgrims
The new pizza joint on Boar Lane opened its doors in November, bringing its signature style of Neapolitan pizza to the city. Pizza Pilgrims dough is double fermented for more than 72 hours to give a pillowy, puffed crust. Photo: Pizza Pilgrims
18. HAMA Korean
Yokohama relocated and rebranded this year, reopening as HAMA Korean in the former Chophaus site in Oakwood. The family-run restaurant serves Korean cuisine alongside steaks. Photo: Simon Hulme