Eats

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

Very well deserved.

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall - 9th October 2026

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

Eats

An intimate Japanese katsu bar with only 15 seats is coming to Leeds city centre

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

Chef Fern is taking on another venture, and this time it's all about Katsu.

If you know anything about the Leeds food scene, then you'll know the absolute legend that is Chef Fern.

Her first restaurant, Fern Modern Sushi, is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Known for their expertly crafted sushi made with only the freshest fish on offer.

Nestled in the Central Arcade, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant captured the hearts of many foodies since opening in 2024.

This year, Chef Fern set her sights on another restaurant on Vicar Lane.

Image: O Katsu

Tori Nori opened just a couple of months ago, a modern Japanese grill centred around the fiery robata where guests can watch the chefs cook everything from grilled fish to delicious yakitori skewers right in front of their very eyes.

Unsurprisingly, Tori Nori has also been a huge hit.

But there's just no stopping Fern as she goes on to open yet another restaurant in the city centre.

Image: The Hoot Leeds

Introducing O Katsu, an intimate restaurant with only 15 covers serving premium katsu.

Katsu is basically a breaded, deep-fried piece of meat, seafood or vegetables. Served with steaming hot rice, shredded cabbage, miso soup and dipping sauces, it's nothing short of delicious and a popular meal enjoyed in Japan.

We don't know much abut the opening date just yet, but what we do know is that it'll be located just opposite her first restaurant in the Central Arcade.

There will be no bookings, and the space will feature an open kitchen so guests can watch the magic happen.

One things for sure, if Chef Fern is involved you just know it's going to be brilliant. We'll keep you updated on the opening of O Katsu as and when we find out.

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

Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

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