A food, drink and music festival is taking over a Leeds carpark this summer, bringing rooftop parties feat. the city's most exciting DJs and food vendors to the Merrion Centre.
Called Multistories, it's pulling in chefs like Matt Healey (former Masterchef) and The Savvy Baker to serve up tasty treats, accompanied by eclectic beat selections from some of Leeds' finest local DJs.
From eight storeys up, guests will get the chance to sample Matt Healy's all-new 'Tapas Xperience'and tuck into Savannah Roqaa's sweet lockdown bakes whilst soaking up some sunshine and enjoying expansive views across the city.
More food vendors are due to be announced in the coming weeks.
Kicking off on 25th June, the space will have room for up to 350 guests at one time. The event takes a leaf out of Manchester and London's books, taking empty industrial or commercial spaces and repurposing them for creative events.
''Hospitality has taken some blows over the past 12 months, to say the least, and so Multistories was born to kickstart the industry in Leeds, encourage greener social space and celebrate some of the amazingly talented independents in the city," said Arron Fishwick, co-founder of Xperience Partners.
‘’Socialising in a car park may raise the odd eyebrow up north, but it’s a tried and tested concept in London that’s been growing exponentially for the best part of a decade. Level 8 will not only allow for some unrivalled views of the city, but some of the absolute best food and drink you’ll find in the UK.’’
‘’We’re honoured to be working with the likes of Matt Healy, the Savvy Baker, and can't wait to reveal more big names as they are confirmed. With everyone fed up with lockdown, we're hoping 2021 is going to be the much-needed summer of love we've all been craving. We can't wait to see the people of Leeds join us to make some lifelong memories.''
Multistories will operate from 4-10pm on Fridays, and between 12-10pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Guests can book tables for Multistories online to drink and dine in parties of up to six.
Tickets go on sale at 9am Friday 11th June and can be purchased via the website.
Find it at Level 8 CitiPark in the Merrion Centre.
Eats
National food critic crowns Leeds restaurant as one of his top three in Britain
Renowned food critic Jay Rayner is singing his praises about a certain Leeds restaurant.
And it's probably a restaurant you've walked past time and time again, but have never thought to pop in.
Named Sous Le Nez, this independent French-inspired bistro and wine bar is tucked away in the basement of Quebec House on Quebec Street, right in the heart of the city centre.
Translating roughly as "under the nose", it's particularly fitting as its food and wine is now being hailed as some of the best in Britain by Jay Rayner himself.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Feeding the people of Leeds since 1991, has some of the best food in the city been under our nose this whole time?
Appearing on the Routes LNER podcast hosted by Jenni Falconer, Rayner was asked about his favourite three restaurants in Britain to which Sous Le Nez got a very special mention.
Jay Rayner said: “Sous Le Nez, an old stager in Leeds that has been there a very long time.
“Great wine list. Nothing on the menu will surprise you but it is done very very well.”
Elsewhere on the podcast, he gives a very quick shoutout Domo in Sheffield (also now in Leeds) for their special Lobster on toast.
It's safe to say that Jay loves a bit of Leeds, back in January he gave The Highland Laddie a glowing review hailing it 'the pub that refuses to die' and in 2024 he labeled Zucco in Meanwood 'the perfect Italian'.
High, high praise indeed. You can listen to the podcast here and you can find out more about the fabulous Sous Le Nez here.
Popular Yorkshire burger chain to move into old Five Guys site in Leeds city centre
Clementine Hall
From one burger chain to the next...
The big Five Guys site on Duncan Street by The Corn Exchange has been empty for quite some time now, after the chain moved into a new premises on the top floor of Trinity Shopping Centre.
But now, a new burger joint is taking its place.
Urban Fresh Burger was born back in 2017 over in Doncaster and has since built a cult following across Yorkshire, opening a total of five sites.
Their selling point is offering a 'healthier' style of burger using fresh and local ingredients, all of which are fully customisable and made to order.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
But don't just take our word for it, here's how Urban Fresh Burger describe themselves: "A healthier choice with flawless flavour, our signature smashed burgers and hand-cut fresh fries keep customers coming back.
"Our secret sauce? Choosing only the freshest, best quality ingredients from local suppliers. It’s a commitment we’ve held true to since day one, and one we’ll never compromise on."
So, what can you expect to see on the menu? Of course - burgers. We're talking beef burgers, chicken burgers and veggie burgers that come with free unlimited toppings so you can stack yours to your heart's desire.
Choose from a huge list such as lettuce, jalapenos, tomato, coleslaw, onion, grilled mushrooms - the list really does go.
Elsewhere on the menu you'll find chicken tenders, boneless wings, mozzarella sticks and milkshakes.
Pretty much, they're bringing everything you're craving on your next cheat day to Duncan Street, and we're sure it's going to go down a storm. We'll keep you updated with an opening date as and when we find out.
Find out more about what to expect from Urban Fresh Burger here.
Georgina Pellant -
11th June 2021 
