12 of the most welcoming places to eat on your own in Leeds

Eating out alone doesn't have to be a lonely experience in Leeds (Photo: The Cross Keys)Eating out alone doesn't have to be a lonely experience in Leeds (Photo: The Cross Keys)
Eating out alone doesn't have to be a lonely experience in Leeds (Photo: The Cross Keys)

Eating a meal out by yourself doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience.

Leeds is home to plenty of friendly and welcoming bars and eateries that can be enjoyed even when you’re going it alone.

The Reliance

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Known for its laid-back feel, this rustic bar and kitchen is a great spot to tuck into some seasonal food, or just to savour a casual drink from their extensive beer and wine list.

Located just on the outskirts of the city centre, The Reliance is a quieter space to dine, away from the hustle and bustle.

Visit: 76-78 North Street, LS2 7PN – the-reliance.co.uk

Outlaws Yacht Club

Offering comfy seating areas with plenty of books and games to entertain you, you'll feel right at home inside this quirky cafe bar, record shop and exhibition space.

Events including poetry readings, book clubs and live Q&As are held here regularly, and it’s a popular haunt for meetings, so there’s always plenty going on to keep you occupied if you’re visiting on your own.

Visit: 38 New York Street, LS2 7DY – outlawsyachtclub.com

Bundobust

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It's one of the city’s most popular street food eateries, renowned for its exciting variety of Indian dishes and roster of local and international craft beers.

Inside, Bundobust adopts an informal canteen style layout with shared bench seating, making solitary diners feel welcome and part of the crowd.

Visit: 6 Mill Hill, LS1 5DQ – bundobust.com

(Photo: Just Grand! Vintage Tearooms)

Zucco

Specialising in Italian small plates, Zucco may be ideal for sharing, but its menu is also ideal for lone diners, as you can order as much or as little as you fancy.

The has a casual atmosphere, making it ideal for leisurely lunches or relaxed late night dining.

Visit: 603 Meanwood Road, LS6 4AY – zucco.co.uk

The Tetley

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As well as superb exhibitions and an ever-changing creative events programme, The Tetley is home to a cosy bar and kitchen, which serves an array of tasty Yorkshire dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

And with plenty to see and do after dining, this venue is an ideal destination for the solo traveller.

Visit: Hunslet Road, LS10 1JQ – thetetley.org

Veritas

Tucked away close to the Town Hall and the Law Courts, pop into this stylish bar and eatery for a relaxed drink or bite to eat.

Veritas is well known for its extensive selection of fine wines, but it also offers an ever-changing range of bespoke gins, ales and seasonally inspired dishes.

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Visit: 43-47 Great George Street, LS1 3BB – markettowntaverns.co.uk

(Photo: The Cross Keys)

Bulgogi Grill

Specialising in traditional Korean style BBQ cooking, Bulgogi Grill puts diners in charge of the cooking, allowing you to cook your meats and seafood on your own table-top grill.

As a solo diner, it’s a great way to keep yourself occupied while eating, and you'll be able to cook each dish exactly to your personal taste.

Visit: The Arena Quarter, 9 Merrion Way, LS2 8BT – bulgogi-grill.co.uk

The Cross Keys

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This elegant gastropub is home to cosy alcoves, roaring fires and a delicious menu that changes with the seasons.

The friendly atmosphere ensures solo diners feel relaxed and welcome, whether it’s to sample some of the food or just enjoy a casual drink.

Visit: 107 Water Lane, LS11 5WD – the-crosskeys.com

Just Grand!

This charming vintage tearoom serves up a slice of both cake and nostalgia simultaneously, with its old fashioned theme and focus on tradition, tea drinking and giving a warm welcome.

Just Grand! aims to make diners feel at home, and with the likes of teacakes, crumpets and traditional afternoon tea on the menu, it’s a place you could comfortably spend a couple of hours in your own company.

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Visit: 8-9 Grand Arcade, New Briggate, LS1 6PG – just-grand.co.uk

(Photo: Just Grand! Vintage Tearooms)

Cafe Lento

This quirky cafe encourages diners to take their time, savour their food, and enjoy the many books and games on offer.

It’s a popular haunt for breakfast, thanks to its indulgent butties and hearty full English, but Cafe Lento also serves light lunches and a great selection of coffees.

Visit: 21A North Lane, LS6 3HW – cafelento.co.uk

Tharavadu

Serving an appetising menu of Indian cuisine, Tharavadu treats diners to traditional Kerala cooking in a friendly and modern setting.

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From flavoursome curries, meat and seafood dishes, to lighter lunches and sweet desserts, there’s a dish to please every palate.

Visit: 7-8 Mill Hill, LS1 5DQ – tharavadurestaurants.com

Candlebar

Offering more than 20 premium wines, craft beers from around the world, artisan gins, and a menu of authentic Japanese cuisine, Candlebar is a cosy spot to unwind on your own.

The venue's enviable location at Granary Wharf provides guests with superb waterfront views while they dine.

Visit: Granary Wharf, Candle House, LS1 4GJ – candlebarleeds.co.uk

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