Jono Hawthorne is the chef patron behind Chef Jono at V&V in New Briggate, one of the city’s few fine-dining restaurants.
A professional chef for more than 16 years, Jono has had a trailblazing career that has seen him scoop many impressive awards over the years.
He is now using his platform to champion some of the amazing independent businesses in Leeds - by giving his social media followers an honest review of the food.
The video series has taken him to places like Silver’s Deli, in Bramley, which is one place that “really stands out” in Jono’s eyes and he’s proud to have shined a light on the sandwich shop before anyone else.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Jono said: “I think everybody knows Silver's now. I did a video there and it kind of went viral.
“I told them that it's something that people should just know about naturally because they are just doing awesome food. I didn't cook the food, I just put them out there.
“I’m quite proud of that actually - that from doing these videos, I’ve been able to help businesses out massively, which is quite a humbling feeling. I didn’t know I could do such a thing.”
Jono is proud of the independent food and drinks scene in Leeds - and thinks it’s much more like a “family”, which is what separates Leeds from other cities.
He added: “I want to shout-out anyone who is independent in Leeds, that is doing it and working hard.
“I’m doing it because there are some places that are not getting the shout-out that they deserve.
“They’re doing good food but they just don't have that type of money to push their business with the market and that's fine, some people can't do that. So that's where I step in, I guess.”
We asked Jono which food and drink establishments he likes the most and would recommend everyone to try. How many have you been to?

1. House of Koko
Chef Jono recommends House of Koko, which has a site in Chapel Allerton and Oakwood, for breakfast. He particularly recommends the Turkish eggs. Jono said: “We don’t really need to talk about this one - it’s House of Koko. Go there, find out for yourself.” | Jonathan Gawthorpe/National World Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe

2. Farmhouse
Also a brilliant spot for breakfast is Farmhouse, in Lands Lane. Jono said: “For families, it's unbelievable - and the food is very good as well. I've been so many times. I'm going to review very soon.” | James Hardisty/National World Photo: James Hardisty

3. Crown Buffet Chinese Restaurant
Jono said Crown Buffet, in Leeds city centre, is a “quirky lunch time spot” that he would recommend to everyone. He added: “It’s cheap, you can eat as much as you want. It’s got quite a cool concept as well, it’s not really a buffet, you just order as much as you want from the table.” | Google Photo: Google

4. Noodle House
Next up is Noodle House, in Leeds city centre. Jono said: "Noodle House, in my eyes, is the best restaurant in Leeds. It's cheap, it's awesome, it tastes delicious. What more do you want? There's just something about it. It’s just so authentic and I don't think it gets enough recognition.” | Simon Hulme/National World Photo: Simon Hulme

5. The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar
The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, in West Point, is a “great” spot for Sunday lunch, Jono said. It was recently named in top 10 best places in the country to grab a Sunday roast. | Google Photo: Google

6. Sqew
Jono said the award-winning kebab shop Sqew, in Duncan Street, is another fantastic spot for lunch. He said: “It’s quick and delicious - it's just so good.” | National World Photo: National World