Eats

A Miami-inspired deli serving Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and cigars has opened in a Leeds suburb

Horsforth, you lucky things.

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall - 14th October 2026

After making a name for itself over in Leeds city centre, Alfonso's Deli 2.0 has touched down in Horsforth.

Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonso's Deli in Leeds' beautiful Grand Arcade serve up some of the best sandwiches in the city.

They've built up such a good reputation in fact, that they have now opened a second deli in the up-and-coming suburb of Horsforth.

Located in a prime location on New Side Road, this deli has a slightly different look to their original space, complete with a beautiful red awning and stuffed to the brim with American memorabilia.

Images: The Hoot Leeds

Here you can find fresh Cuban coffee which goes wonderfully with their authentic toasted Cubano sandwiches, perfectly crafted with their house-made bread which are then pressed made-to-order.

New for Horsforth, they're now serving New York deli sandwiches on brand-new house schiacciata bread.

And the bread is as fresh as it gets, made in their own bakery downstairs alongside a selection of New York deli bakes.

Images: The Hoot Leeds

Stuffed with toppings such as smoked deli meats, cold cuts, fresh cheese and whatever else you fancy.

Oh and it doesn't stop there, you can also buy a cigar if you fancy it alongside a selection of merch, hot sauces and provisions like tinned fish.

So whether you're stopping by on your way to work for a morning coffee or treating yourself to a stellar sandwich for your lunch, Alfonso's Deli is here to whisk you away to Miami for the afternoon.

Images: The Hoot Leeds

They're officially opening their doors to the public this Thursday 15 October, and we just know it's going to go down and absolute storm.

Make sure to pop down and give them a big warm welcome to the neighbourhood.

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Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

Eats

‘This recognition belongs to you’ – Leeds restaurant added to the Michelin Guide just months after opening

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

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."

Read more: Leeds pizza shop hailed ‘exceptional’ and ‘best in the UK’ by major reviewer

Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

Eats

Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards

Clementine Hall 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."

Read more:

Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

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