Fika North Leeds: Headingley coffee shop reopens with new takeaway hatch and ice cream

Fika North, in Far Headingley, had been closed since Monday July 10 as it got spruced up – and customers were redirected to its sister business, bar and bottle shop Bottle Chop. Owned by Gemma and Elis Williams, Fika North opened just over four years ago and has become a cult favourite with residents in north west Leeds.

The coffee shop reopened to customers yesterday (Wednesday) at 8am. In an Instagram post, the team said: “Thanks to all our incredible team and friends for all your hard work helping us make this happen and [joinery] Esgate & Keir for bringing the skills”.

Fika North now boasts a sliding hatch window for a dedicated takeaway space, reducing congestion inside, as well as a whippy machine serving soft-serve ice cream from Northern Bloc. The decor has had a refresh, with a new table layout and a bright red front door to contrast the teal blue paint.

Inspired by Swedish coffee culture, Fika North serves speciality coffee from independent roasters, as well as pastries, cakes and bagels and craft beer, cocktails and wines.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post last week, Gemma said: “Everyone has been really supportive of it. Fika is continually busy all the time, no matter what, which is amazing and something I’m really proud of. The product is good, the coffee is amazing - and that’s the most important thing. It drives people to us and brings them together.”