This will be the fourth spot in the city to serve Slap & Pickle's giant smash burgers.
The burger joint has been around Leeds for well over a decade, operating first as Dogtown, a giant loaded hot dog street food venture, before diversifying into the burger business.
It's been a whirlwind few years for the indie, and you can now find Slap and Pickle all over Leeds, including now at Brewery Tap just moments from Leeds Train Station.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Slap and Pickle is best known in Leeds for its filthy smash burgers, loaded fries and extensive vegan range – and has seen its fair share of venue takeovers over the last few years.
Previously you might have spotted the burger kitchen operating at the likes of Assembly Underground and Beer Hawk until both bar’s abrupt closure in December 2022, or at The Old King’s Arms in Horsforth and Black Sheep Tap and Kitchen in Chapel Allerton in 2023.
Slap and Pickle now operate inside The Venue in Horsforth, Brooklyn on Call Lane, as well as at and serving at The Wardrobe, curing those pre-gig hunger pangs and appetite for a hearty bottomless brunch on the weekends.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The burgers themselves are reason alone to venture down. Think rich Swaledale patties smashed and grilled before being piled high with cheese, bacon, onion rings and enough house sauce to keep you going all night long.
But the loaded fries are just as exciting: think vegan duck, fried chicken or even sprinkled bits of burger and sauce to create a beef-burger-loaded-fries hybrid dish.
The kitchen at Brewery Taps will be taken over from Big Buns, who can still be found at the newly opened Northern Market on Great George Street, and over at SALT Oakwood.
Image: Brewery Tap
At present, the opening date has been pencilled for 26 January 2024, and to mark the ocassion 150 free Limited-Edition Oklahoma Smash burgers will be given away on a first come first served basis.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Clementine Hall
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Sophie Smith -
16th January 2024 
