And some of the nation’s top food critics agree with us, writing glowing reviews for a number of the city’s restaurants in recent years. The Guardian food writer Jay Rayner is a particular supporter of the Leeds food and drink scene, having studied here as a student.
We look at 11 Leeds restaurants that have been recommended by London-based food critics, and what they had to say about the food.
7. Kino - Jay Rayner
On another trip to Leeds last year, Rayner praised Opera North’s restaurant Kino for its friendly service in a review for The Guardian. | Jo Ritchie/Kino Photo: Jo Ritchie/Kino
8. MorMor - Jay Rayner
During Rayner's trip to Kino, the kitchen was occupied by Levantine street food business MorMor, founded by Hugo Monypenny (pictured). The Guardian food critic praised MorMor's fiery flavours. | Steve Riding Photo: Steve Riding
9. Sous Le Nez - Jay Rayner
Before his visit to Kino, Rayner stopped off at French restaurant and bar Sous Le Nez in Quebec Street for pre-dinner drinks. He said: "The wine list is huge and leather-bound, but starts with a long and smart offering of wines under £30." | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
10. Mr Mackerel - Jay Rayner
On that visit, Rayner also tried Mr Mackerel in Kirkgate Market. He praised his mackerel bun from the Turkish grill, which he said was “probably the best £5 you can spend on lunch anywhere in Leeds right now.” | Jonathan Gawthorpe Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
11. Wen's - Jay Rayner
Chinese restaurant Wen's had a visit from Rayner in 2020, who said the family-run business was going in "thrilling new directions". Writing in The Guardian, Rayner praised the dumplings cooked by Mrs Wen, writing: "spicy, minced beef pan-fried dumplings have gossamer and silky skins, which are precisely crisped on the bottom". | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty