The six-figure transformation transformation of the old Roxy Ball Room site has been put to good use.
Pinnacle has finally opened to the public, and there's so many activities to get involved in, every single day of the week here.
Over 100 gins, over 20 draught lines from around the world, 7 pool tables, shuffleboard and Sky and BT Sports: will you really need to go anywhere else this summer?
Named, Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall, the huge venue has undergone a dramatic £250k transformation since taking on the old Roxy site.
Now, expect floor-to-ceiling views of the city centre, between sips of signature cocktails and games of shuffleboard right in the heart of the city centre- this really is going to be the go-to hangout spot for large crowds.
On the menu, moreish comfort food sits alongside fresh hand-stretched pizzas, a selection of delicious small plates including beetroot falafel, nachos and a renowned charcuterie selections.
Image: PGHL
Speaking ahead of the launch, Ben Warren, Concept Taverns Managing Director, said:
“After opening five new venues in the past year, we feel that Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall is the tip of the iceberg for Concept Taverns. Combining all the best things we have learned in the city and surrounding areas, we feel our newest venue offers something special to Leeds with a truly unique hangout space for everyone to enjoy.’’
‘’Our handpicked selection of incredible beers, ales and gins from some of today’s most beloved providers has proven to be a winning formula across each of our bars, and the food, gaming and prime location of Pinnacle only adds to this. We look forward to welcoming our first guests just in time for summer.’’
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Sophie Smith -
20th May 2022 
