Ramen at the ready Leeds, because Fuji Hiro is reopening its doors.
It's a good day for foodies as one of the city's most-loved independent restaurants is reopening its doors under new management.
And trust us, you're going to love it.
Fuji Hiro, Leeds' original Japanese restaurant and somewhat of an institution, originally opened on Wade Lane in 1997 and amassed a cult following for nearly three decades thanks to its no-nonsense authentic Japanese cooking.
Sadly, earlier this year the previous owners announced it was closing which was met with widespread disappointment from locals.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
But now, Fuji Hiro is making a triumphant return under new management, with Leeds-born entrepreneur James Douglas at the helm.
The restaurant at the Merrion Centre boasts a fresh look and a refined menu including slurp-worthy ramen and sizzling noodles to crispy gyoza and crunchy katsu.
Fuji Hiro owner, James Douglas, said: “We’re hugely excited to finally open the doors an bring Fuji Hiro back to life. This relaunch is all about honouring Fuji Hiro’s legacy while welcoming a new generation of diners to discover what’s made it so special for so many years.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
“We can’t wait welcome back all the Fuji fans and introduce newcomers to the incredible tastes and aromas of its authentic Japanese cuisine.”
Charles Newman, associate director at Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), owners of the Merrion Centre, added: “We’re incredibly excited to see Fuji Hiro reopen its doors. It’s a much-missed gem in Leeds’ food scene and its return brings a real buzz to the Merrion Centre. We know loyal fans will be first in line.”
The beloved Domino Club is receiving its flowers, and rightly so.
Rapidly becoming one of the industry’s most respected accolade of excellence, The Pinnacle Guide is a worldwide ranking of the best bars across the globe.
Based on a thorough self-application process, rigorous assessment modules, followed by a series of spot check interviews and anonymous in-bar reviews, it's no easy feat to get a spot on this list.
Which is why it makes The Domino Club's achievement all that more impressive.
Known amongst locals and visitors alike as basically one of the coolest bars in town, the hidden speakeasy invites you through a barbershop in the Grand Arcade where downstairs you'll find a dimly lit jazz and cocktail bar oozing sex appeal.
Not only are the cocktails exceptional, but their live music listings is something to behold playing everything from jazz and funk to cabaret and disco every Wednesday - Sunday.
Announcing the news to Instagram, The Domino said: "Listed by The Pinnacle Guide. The Domino Club has been recognised on the global list of the world’s best bars.
"What began as a hidden basement bar in Leeds, built around live music, cocktails and atmosphere, is now being recognised alongside some of the finest bars in the world.
"A huge thank you to our team, musicians, suppliers and every single guest who has supported us over the years. This means a lot. Leeds belongs on the world cocktail map."
We absolutely could not agree more and if you haven't ventured behind the barbershop and discovered the magical Domino Club, then we very much recommend you do.
A Caribbean street food restaurant famed for its jerk chicken is opening in Leeds this week
Clementine Hall
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is coming to Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
Gosh, we're suddenly feeling very hungry.
Image: The Manc Group
Jerk Junction will officially be opening to the public from 12pm on Tuesday 12 May 2026, and you can bet we'll be first in line to get our hands on a big tray of jerk chicken and rice.
Josie Towning, Food and Beverage Manager at Trinity Leeds, said: “There’s been a lot of interest in the upcoming arrival of Jerk Junction since it was announced. Bringing a taste of the Caribbean to Trinity Kitchen, it’ll be the place to be when it opens its doors next week.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “We’re all about good vibes and creating dishes that help bring people together. We’re looking forward to bringing the Jerk Junction spirit to Trinity Kitchen. The brand already holds a special place within the communities in Manchester and Liverpool – and we’re sure the people of Leeds will embrace it in the same way.”
The latest announcement follows the recent launches of schuh and LEGO at Trinity Leeds, which will also welcome the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand, Lane7, and Footasylum later this year.
Clementine Hall -
9th July 2025 
