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.
19. Fluffy Fluffy
The frequent queues outside this dessert cafe show it's already gathered a cult following, after opening on the Headrow in November. Fluffy Fluffy is famous for its soufflé pancakes, served with flavours such as vanilla, cookies and cream, strawberry, and chocolate. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
20. Flat Iron
This steak restaurant opened in Lands Lane at the end of November, to rave reviews. Options include the Scottish bavette steak, as well as sirloin and marbled Wagyu. The Wagyu is sourced just 40 miles from Leeds, in the North Yorkshire town of Thirsk. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
21. Owt
This popular restaurant relocated from the Corn Exchange in November, moving to a bigger unit in Burley Road. Known for its experimental dishes using local produce, Owt has doubled its capacity - offering evening meals for the first time. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
22. Galleria
Events venue Project House in Armley launched its new in-house restaurant in November. Galleria serves an evening menu with wood-fried chicken and flatbreads, as well as a daytime menu with classic brunch dishes. Pictured is co-founder Simon Stevens. Photo: National World
23. Olive Tree Brasserie
This stunning Greek restaurant opened its doors in South Parade in December following a £700,000 investment. It has a variety of menus from a la carte and prix fixe to the bottomless brunch and new daily specials. Photo: James Hardisty
24. Maki and Ramen
The final new opening of 2023, Maki and Ramen opened on December 22. The Japanese restaurant on Bond Street is the second venue in England, serving ramen, sushi and noodles. Photo: Maki and Ramen