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?
7. Empire Cafe
In Leeds city centre, Jono said Empire Cafe is a a great spot if you prefer a meal where you can sit down. He added: “The chicken, the potatoes, it’s a great lunchtime feed. The desserts are my favourite. They’ve got a really good pastry chef there, that is making some of the best desserts in Leeds. They’re the most creative, the most delicious.” | Simon Hulme/National World Photo: Simon Hulme
8. Chef Jono at V&V
Jono also invites people to come try his own restaurant, Chef Jono at V&V, in New Briggate. It has won many awards including Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year at the Food Awards 2023. It will launching a new menu soon. Jono would recommend trying the Sunday lunch, and it also offers a five-course lunch menu, priced at £45, perfect for a midweek meal and any celebrations. | Jonathan Gawthorpe/National World Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. Tabula Rasa
Eastgate bar Tabula Rasa was next on Jono’s list. He said very simply, “the cocktails are off the charts”. | Tabula Rasa/Google Photo: Tabula Rasa/Google
10. Homeboy Pizza Co
Homeboy Pizza Co, which has just opened its first brick-and-mortar shop in Kirkstall, was next on Jono’s list to shout-out. He visited a pop-up for a review in May this year. Jono said: “It speaks for itself - the best pizza. I’m looking forward to the new opening because it’ll be different.” | Bruce Rollinson/National World Photo: Bruce Rollinson
11. Akbar's
Jono also recommends Indian restaurant Akbar’s in Eastgate. He said: “Everyone knows Akbar’s, but no one ever gives it a shout-out. Akbar’s is so delicious, it’s untrue. The chicken liver dish - that’s my go-to.” | Jonathan Gawthorpe/National World Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
12. Doh'hut
Jono is also a fan of Doh’hut, a Leeds city centre bakery. He said: “It’s a great little donut spot. They’re out here on their own, basically. It’s the best.” | Matt Moore/Google Photo: Matt Moore/Google