With a raft of new independent bars, pubs and restaurants opening over the last few years, there is now so much variety across the city – from Wetherby to Morley. One of the suburbs that has seen an influx in new openings over the last 18 months is Oakwood.
Located minutes away from Roundhay Park, the suburb’s bustling high street has become a hotspot for new businesses, adding new competition for the well-established favourites of Roundhay Road.
Here’s my ultimate guide to a night out in Oakwood – with 14 places to eat and drink to choose from. Venues are listed in a geographical loop from up one side of Roundhay Road and back down the other.
1. Ultimate guide to Oakwood
Here's my ultimate guide to a night out in Oakwood, with 14 bars, pubs and restaurants to choose from. Venues are listed in a loop from one side of Roundhay Road and back down the other. Photo: James Hardisty
2. The Roundhay
The first stop on our loop is The Roundhay, a Greene King pub full of rustic charm which serves seasonal pub grub and mouth-watering steaks. The pub specialises in grilled dishes, from flame steaks and stacked burgers to flamin’ sharers - including the steak fondue and chick 'n' mix platter. The Roundhay shows all the action on Sky Sports and BT Sport and boasts a beer garden. Photo: James Hardisty
3. Soosi Mediterranean Grill
Soosi, a Persian and Mediterranean restaurant, is a popular takeaway option - and the venue can be booked out for private parties too. The menu includes Persian grilled kebabs which are all served with a choice of homemade bread, salad or saffron rice, as well as stew specials, pizzas and a kids menu - making it the perfect choice for all the family. Photo: James Hardisty
4. Mr Moustache Lounge
Further along the parade is Mr Moustache Lounge, a family-run business that opened last autumn. The lounge and restaurant offers premium shisha as well as Persian food, hot drinks, desserts and more. The venue boasts slick decor and also has a private function room that can be booked out for private parties. Photo: James Hardisty
5. Punjabi Heaven
Next door is Punjabi Heaven, a family-owned restaurant which serves a range of tandoori starters, biryani, curries and creamy lassi drinks, cooked by head chef and co-founder Daljit Singh. He launched the business with his partner Regina Santo, who runs the day-to-day management of the business. The pair have paid close attention to the decoration of the restaurant, bringing a flavour of the Punjab to east Leeds. Photo: James Hardisty
6. La Terrasse Brasserie
The newest addition to Oakwood's thriving food and drink scene is La Terrasse Brasserie, which opened last month in the site of the former Cervo restaurant. The French and Italian themed restaurant has a mouth-watering menu with range of dine in and take out options - from classic pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese and lasagne to a range of different fish dishes and steak. Photo: James Hardisty