'Garforth could be the next Chapel Allerton': Pizzeria owner on transformation of Garforth's high street

Restaurant owner Danny Cairns, who is Garforth born-and-bred, said it's an exciting time for the town - which he thinks could become the 'next Chapel Allerton'.

The 42-year-old worked in sales before making the leap in May 2018 to set up a pizzeria, 450 Degrees, with his wife Lindsay.

Danny said: "People used to think of Garforth as out in the sticks, but with one of the best performing schools in the country families are moving here now just to get their kids in.

"There are lots of new faces and young professionals wanting to spend their hard earned cash, without needing to go into the city centre."

In the premises of an old pool centre which Danny frequented as a youth, 450 Degrees now serves up artisan wood fire pizza and classic Italian desserts at the bottom of Main Street.

The pizzeria has set off a 'chain reaction' of restaurant and bar openings, including new cocktail bar Jigger & Jar, ale house The Yard and Wetherspoons pub The Briggate.

Cross Gates bottle shop, cafe and bar, The Assembly, has also announced plans for a new branch in Garforth.

The new additions to Main Street join the longstanding Italian La Bella Vita, which Danny says was once all Garforth had to offer the Leeds food and drink scene.

The father-of-two added: "Since we opened our doors back in 2018, there has been a flurry of new independent businesses open, bringing much needed life to our once sleepy town.

"That's been a real vision for mine for a number of years now.

"It's an exciting time to be in Garforth and I fully support all the new life appearing here. I really believe Garforth could be the next Chapel Allerton."

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