Because authentic Brazilian rodizio bar and grill Estabulo is set to open a brand-new restaurant at the Merrion Centre in Leeds this October.
Just moments away from the First Direct Arena adjoining the Ibis Styles Leeds City Centre hotel, the new venue will be in the perfect location for concert-goers or for those stopping off in Leeds.
If you haven't been to Estabulo before, then allow us to get you clued up on what to expect.
Guests can enjoy Estabulo’s renowned rodizio dining experience, where a variety of meats are slow-roasted over open flames and carved at the table to enjoy as much as desired.
Image: Supplied
And we really mean it, if you don't leave here with the meat sweats then you're doing something wrong.
Every meal also includes unlimited access to Estabulo’s extensive salad bar, which features seasonal produce as well as cheeses, and Brazilian-inspired sides.
But it doesn't stop there because in addition to the signature rodizio, the new Estabulon will also serve the group’s popular à la carte menu launched earlier this year, with highlights including the Flat Iron Steak, Scottish Bavette, and the Estabulo Burger.
Sophie Blackburn, Operations Manager at Estabulo, said: “Opening our new restaurant marks a really exciting step for the brand. We’re passionate about sharing authentic Brazilian flavours and creating a vibrant dining atmosphere, and this venue gives us the perfect opportunity to welcome even more guests to enjoy the rodizio experience.”
Charles Newman, Associate Director, Estates for Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), owners of the Merrion Centre, said: “We are delighted to welcome Estabulo to the Merrion Centre. Their rodizio-style dining adds something truly unique to our growing line-up of international restaurants.
"With the venue directly connected to our ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena hotel, it will provide a fantastic option for hotel guests and arena visitors alike. With thousands of office workers and students nearby, we are confident this new venue will become a key addition to the Arena Quarter.”
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 -
13th October 2025 
