From a new cafe and bar in Chapel Allerton launched by a 22-year-old entrepreneur, to a glamorous city centre restaurant merging five south Indian cuisines, a number of new food and drink businesses have made Leeds their home this summer.
We’ve had new shops, luxury salons and independent gyms, too – and even a Greggs cafe in Primark. And there’s more new openings on the way as the summer comes to a close, including a brunch spot that’s already popular in Harrogate.
Here are 27 exciting new businesses that have opened in Leeds this summer, or are opening very soon.
7. Project House
This new venue and event space, brought about by some of the key figures in the Leeds music scene, opened in July. Project House, in Armley Road, offers a multi-use event space which will host a varied programme of music, markets, exhibitions, conferences and parties. Photo: Tony Johnson
8. Tamatanga
Tamatanga officially opened its doors to the public in June, following its success in Nottingham, Leicester and Birmingham. The Indian restaurant chain, founded in 2008, serves a mix of both the familiar and unusual twists on classic dishes, as well as unique cocktails and premium spirits. Photo: Tamatanga
9. Rejuvaskin
This new luxury clinic has opened in the heart of Leeds offering facials, chemical peels and laser hair treatment. Rejuvaskin, which specialises in laser hair removal and non-surgical aesthetic treatments, has launched its second treatment space in Albion Street. Led by owner Shaz Ahmed, pictured, Rejuvaskin also offers high-tech LED Light Therapy and a range of skincare treatments. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Lil and Flo's Pet Cafe
A one-of-a-kind Bielsa-themed pet cafe has opened in the Pet Lodge Superstore in Wortley. Owner Arron Lambert is dedicating the cafe to the former Leeds United boss, with Bielsa themes running through the venue, from the music and decor to the food on offer. Lil and Flo’s Pet Cafe, named after Arron’s daughters, will serve hot drinks and buns for humans, including Bielsa’s favourite mate tea. Photo: Simon Hulme
11. Whistles
The London-based fashion retailer, known for timeless design and wardrobe staples, launched its new standalone shop in Victoria Gate at the end of June. It’s one of five new arrivals in Victoria Leeds this summer, with Phase Eight, Townhouse Nails, Jimmy Fairly and the Whisky Shop also opening stores in the shopping district. Photo: Giles Rocholl Photography
12. Hyde Park Picture House
We couldn't miss out the iconic Hyde Park Picture House, which reopened this summer following a multi-million pound transformation. The historic 109-year-old cinema has undergone repairs to the façade, seen its original terrazzo flooring restored and, opened a brand-new 50-seat second screen in the basement. Pictured is the head of cinema Wendy Cook. Photo: Simon Hulme