A new Caribbean restaurant is opening in Leeds city centre after the council has granted it their alcohol license.
Jamrock is an independent bar and restaurant serving up traditional Caribbean cuisine and a mix of contemporary cocktails and beer.
Having opened in 2020 at a spot on Call Lane and gaining a loyal following, they are now moving to a new premises on Kirkgate but the move hasn't come without it's complications.
The unit, which was previously occupied by Domino's Pizza, features an outdoor courtyard which locals feared would be used by the restaurant's guests and thus create lots of noise late at night.
Image: Jamrock
But luckily for Jamrock, a panel of two councillors granted their application after owner, Oral Blackford, promised the venue's outdoor space would not be used by it's punters.
At a hearing on Tuesday 11 October 2022, it was said that the opening of the Caribbean restaurant would help cultural and economic growth and as it is a food based offering, will not cause significant noise disruption.
There were no objections at the hearing and in conclusion, the restaurant will be allowed to sell alcohol until 10.30pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends.
Image: Jamrock
Jamrock have yet to announce their new opening date but customers are already itching to get back and enjoy their menu full of Caribbean favourites.
Helmed by Jamaica-born Oral Blackford and inspired by his upbringing in Ocho Rios with his grandparents, you can expect fresh, delicious food made with love and soul that is bursting with flavour.
Image: Jamrock
From 24 hour marinated Jerk Chicken to Ackee and Saltfish, Jamaica's national dish, it is the perfect place to sample some authentic West-Indian cuisine right here in Leeds.
They also do a banging bottomless brunch which we can't wait to attend when they open back up.
To stay in the loop about Jamrock's highly anticipated opening, keep an eye on their social media.
An independent açai bowl pop-up is opening a permanent cafe in Leeds city centre.
It seems the açai bowl trend isn't over just yet, and we're absolutely not mad about it.
The aesthetically purple frozen treat isn't just delicious, but is also known to have numerous health benefits making it guilt-free and the perfect post-workout pick me up.
You may remember Açai Social Club that opened as a pop-up in the Victoria Quarter last year, and now they're moving into a permanent spot in the city centre.
Run by a lovely husband and wife duo who have spent the last 15 months exploring cafes around the world, it's safe to say they know exactly what they're talking about.
Their açai is made with the very best ingredients, topped with the freshest fruit and sprinkled with their homemade granola - it doesn't get much better then that does it?
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, they said: "Açai Social Club is getting a home. Our very first store is officially on the way! We’ve been working behind the scenes to create a space that’s more about than just açai.
"What started as an idea is finally becoming something you can walk into…There’s still a lot we’re keeping under wraps for now, but we’re so excited to finally share the beginning of what’s to come.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you in. Your new neighbourhood social club, coming soon."
The exact location of the cafe and its opening date is still under wraps, but we'll of course keep you updated as and when we find out.
The Leeds Supper Club bringing people together over incredible food
Clementine Hall
What started as a simple idea around food has grown into something much bigger for Leeds Supper Club.
The idea was born from a love of food and the idea that eating together can be about much more than what’s on your plate.
Rather than simply going out to a restaurant, Leeds Supper Club puts connection at the heart of its events, bringing people together to share incredible food and enjoy an evening in good company.
We had the pleasure of attending their most recent event where we had the most wonderful evening with founders Lizzie, Phillip and the rest of the club.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This instalment was a very special one, as it was in collaboration with Knotfield Vine over in Horsforth.
I mean, it really doesn't get more scenic than this - we really felt like we'd been whisked away to the South of France rather than a Leeds suburb. But we wouldn't want it either way.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
What makes it a cut above the rest is the details. Every little detail has been thought out, from the low-lit, sexy lighting, hand-made name plates, live music and four courses of wonderful seasonal goodness made fresh.
From enjoying a glass of wine within the vines alongside a couple of nibbles to tucking into a three course meal around a candle-lit table, there's really nowhere else like it.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The tagliatelle pasta with beef and whipped feta was a real highlight, and knowing Lizzie and Philip receive help on the menu and the cooking from all their friends made it taste that much sweeter.
By the end of it we'd had some delicious food, fabulous wine and shared even better conversation. And it's safe to say we left feeling a part of the club.
Keep an eye on their Instagram page here for all upcoming events.
Clementine Hall -
19th October 2022 
