National Latte Day (February 11) serves as the perfect mid-week excuse to bypass the office instant coffee and celebrate the master baristas who keep Leeds caffeinated.
While the drink itself has 17th-century European roots, the official day was founded in 2019 by Jefferson’s Coffee, a family-run business based in New Jersey, which wanted to create a day specifically to honour the ‘tastiness and wakefulness-promoting qualities’ of the beverage.
It has been observed every February 11 since then, quickly gaining traction on social media as coffee shops began using the date to showcase latte art and offer promotions.
From the high-end Italian elegance of the city-centre arcades to the quiet community hubs in the suburbs, the Leeds coffee scene has never been more vibrant.
We’ve rounded up 15 of the most essential ‘piping hot’ destinations in the city to ensure your Wednesday morning fix comes with a side of local independent soul.
13. Archive
Located on Kirkstall Road, Archive is a massive, airy space that manages to feel intimate. It’s a favourite for the creative crowd and the Kirkstall commuters, offering punchy lattes that provide the perfect caffeine kickstart. ☕ 94 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds LS3 1HD | Google Street View
14. Rabbit Hole Coffee
Whether you visit their brick-and-mortar spot in Moortown or their sleek counter in Harvey Nichols, Rabbit Hole is currently one of the trendiest names in Leeds coffee. They are famous for their smooth, Columbian blends and - crucially for National Latte Day - some of the best oat milk lattes in the North. ☕ Stainburn Parade, Moortown / Harvey Nichols, Victoria Quarter | YEP
15. Hyde Park Book Club
For something a bit more 'boho' and student-adjacent, Hyde Park Book Club is a Leeds institution. It’s a quirky, multi-use space that feels like a classic coming-of-age movie set. Their lattes are great, but it’s the atmosphere - surrounded by books, art, and the buzz of Hyde Park - that makes it a standout destination. ☕ 27-29 Headingley Ln., Headingley, Leeds LS6 1BL | Simon Hulme