'The menu is simply brilliant' - review of Tom Foolery, Boston Spa, Leeds

That’s quite an ask for the venue based in the quaint village on the outskirts of Leeds, where the main street is already littered with bars and restaurants of varying cuisine.

But Tom Foolery is certainly having a good go.

First impressions

As you wander through the doors, you’ll see a scattering of tables to the left and right, and some ahead near the bar.

The space here is brilliant. We visit on a weekend afternoon when the venue is probably at about 60 per cent capacity and it doesn’t feel cramped.

The place is kitted out with pretty hanging lights, boards showing revolving offers and quizzes on the walls and, oak-style tall tables/benches with matching stools.

All-in-all it has lovely decor.

A word for smokers or vapers: there’s a really nice covered smoking area too, looking out onto the high street.

The atmosphere

Tom Foolery appears to have a real mix of clientele.

We can see two young couples, a family-of-four, three male friends and even a man with a cuddly little dog sat down at one table.

There’s relaxing music playing in the background. Upbeat but not imposing so you can still participate in a conversation.

The drinks

You will not be disappointed when it comes to choice.

There’s a brilliant selection on taps for keg-lovers, including Leeds-based North Brewing Co’s Sea of Tranquility and Northern Monk's ever-popular Faith IPA.

Lagers are not in short supply either, as favourites including Peroni and Amstel are featured on the bar.

If you’re not in the mood for a tipple, there is a wide range of coffees and hot chocolates - plus a delightful vegan chocolate one - to sample.

The food

Food wasn’t our first thought when we sought Tom Foolery out because from the outside it comes across as more of an upmarket bar than a food joint.

How wrong we were.

The menu is simply brilliant and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

It features a refreshingly impressive vegetarian and vegan emphasis and the offering is fantastic.

There’s breakfast, lunch and dinner-style items on offer - anything from a Full English to a burrito.

We opt for a ‘Burrito Bowl’ with non-beef chill and 'Fregan' breakfast.

The burrito is, as it sounds, a burrito in a bowl.

The mushroom and ragu flavours in the burrito bowl taste smoked, almost barbecued. Lovely.

My dining partner tells me the Fregan breakfast is also very tasty.

We also see someone eating the mushroom burger which looked delightful.

The service

It's table service until 4pm - then order at the bar.

When we sat down (at around 2pm), we were served immediately by a friendly face.

After we order drinks, the server returned quickly for food.

We could not fault the service here.

The verdict

We stumbled upon Tom Foolery by accident during a chance visit to Boston Spa.

After sampling the fantastic selection of food and drink, coupled with the relaxed vibe and friendly service, we’ll be back on purpose next time.