From classic martinis to theatrical tipples with smoke and changing colours, mixologists are pushing boundaries with their serves. Here we've rounded up some of the best cocktail bars in Leeds. Is your favourite on the list?
1. Manahatta
Manahatta is a lively cocktail bar with venues in Greek Street, Merrion Street and Headingley. The art deco interior makes a glamorous setting to enjoy two-for-one cocktails - choose from the Classic Collection or the more adventurous Party Edit, which includes the ‘Rave Punch’ with Bacardi Cuatro rum, Disaronno, passion fruit, grenadine and pineapple.
2. The Ivy
This upmarket restaurant and cocktail bar in the Victoria Quarter is now serving its ‘summer of love’ drinks menu, including colourful 1960s-themed cocktails. A popular choice is The Ivy Royale - Kir Royale with Plymouth Gin infused with hibiscus and rosewater, sloe juice and Cocchi Rosa Vermouth topped with champagne. Pictured: Operations Director Laura Mills
3. Lost and Found
This Victorian-inspired cocktail bar on Greek Street is a hit for its theatrical signature tipples. It has recently launched a new menu of seasonal serves including The Tangled Teapot - iced elderflower and peach tea mixed with elderflower gin and disguised as a cuppa. Photo: Lost & Found
4. East 59th
This glamorous New-York inspired rooftop bar in Victoria Gate is the perfect place to soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand. The bar’s signature serves include the 59th Fizz with sparkling Tanqueray gin, elderflower and prosecco and the East 59th Zombie with four different rums.
5. MOJO
‘Music for the people, food for the soul, good times forever’ is the mantra at rock and indie bar MOJO on Merrion Street. There’s something for everyone on the drinks menu which includes gin, rum, tequila, vodka and prosecco cocktails.
6. The Alchemist
Specialising in 'molecular mixology', The Alchemist in Trinity Leeds and Greek Street serves theatrical cocktails with smoke, changing colours and 'bath bombs'. There's also more simple offerings on the vast menu, including mojitos, Aperol Spritz and pina coladas.