Boasting carefully curated and ever-evolving tasting menus, Six By Nico kicked things off with their ‘The Chippie’ menu.
When we heard that Scottish success story Six By Nico were opening their doors in Leeds, we simply could not be more excited.
They officially open today on East Parade, Monday 3 July 2023, however we were lucky enough to visit a few days before to sample their opening offering - and it certainly did not disappoint.
The concept of Six By Nico is unique and unlike anything else in the city, they produce carefully curated themed tasting menus which change every six weeks.
Image: The Hoot LeedsImage: The Hoot Leeds
What makes Six By Nico so great is the price, costing just £39 per person with wine pairing available for an added £30, the restaurant are making fine dining accessible to those wanting to experience something special without breaking the bank.
We sampled ‘The Chippie’ menu - a tasting menu which felt incredibly appropriate for the Leeds opening and offered a unique take on the traditional fish and chip shop dinner.
The 6 course menu is a journey through the senses and transports you back to the nostalgic memories of the beloved chippy tea.
Image: The Hoot LeedsImage: The Hoot Leeds
We devoured their original take on Scampi, Chips and Cheese, Fish Supper, Steak Pie and even a Deep Fried Mars Bar topped with Irn Bru Sorbet to finish things off.
There's also a vegetarian menu on offer, serving alternatives such as Cauliflower Beignet, Halloumi, Sweet Potato Cannelloni and Root Vegetable Pie with a burnt onion ketchup.
Each wine paired perfectly and alongside each course was explained thoroughly by our very attentive waitress.
Image: The Hoot LeedsImage: The Hoot Leeds
The interior of the restaurant was slick, modern and comfortable with pops of colour throughout. There was no feeling of intimidation as one may expect from a typical tasting menu, immediately we were made to feel at home and we can't wait to go back and try out their other menus.
Six By Nico is the perfect meal out for those who wish to experience something completely unique and out of the ordinary. With a menu that changes every six weeks, you can go time and time again and be wowed every single time.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
'The Chippie' is being served from Monday 3 July - Sunday 13 August 2023, and it is certainly not one to be missed.
To book your table, take a look at the Six By Nico website.
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Clementine Hall -
3rd July 2023 
