Merrion Street bars join forces to create 200 capacity outdoor drinking area

Bars and clubs on Merrion Street have teamed up to create the city's largest outdoor drinking area. Pictured: Last year's festival.

Seven independent businesses have joined forces to install a 50m canopy over Merrion street.

It will create enough space to seat up to 200 people.

The bars and restaurants involved are Manahatta, MOJO, Verve, Mean Eyed Cat, Roxy Ball Room, Yard & Coop, Zaap Thai and Liv Bar.

Each of the venues will offer a selection of their signature dishes, drinks, and unique cocktails.

Inspiration for the idea came from the hugely successful Merrion Street Festival in the summer of 2020, which saw bar and restaurant operators on the street collaborate for a weekend of live music, great food and drink.

Lisa Morris, Co-Owner or Yard & Coop, said: "Merrion street has some of the area's best party bars and restaurants all now with plenty of outside seating and professional covering, making it one of the largest covered party areas in Leeds.

"Each venue will be showcasing their best drinks, food and good times.

"This is going to feel like being on holiday in the centre of Leeds - every weekend."

Martin Wolstencroft from Arc Inspiration said: "Manahatta is delighted to work with the other bars on Merrion Street to create a unique, fantastic destination for all our customers to come together and celebrate the reopening of the superb hospitality Leeds is famous for".

Martin Greenhow MD of MOJOS added: "Everyone on Merrion Street is immensely excited to welcome back all our old friends and guests and finally offer some much-needed relief from the house arrest we've all had to endure.

"At last, someone else will make you a drink and take care of the cooking."

The Merrion Street collaboration will launch on April 12 and run up until May 17, when the hospitality industry will resume normal trade as venues are allowed to open their doors to the public.

Operators will trade from Wednesday through to Sunday.

If the scheme is a success, they plan to make this a regular event and continue the concept during the winter months.

Customers are encouraged to book in advance; however, walk-ups will also be welcome.

For further information on opening times, menus and bookings, please visit www.merrionstreetfestival.co.uk