The warmer weather and the longer nights have got us all craving an ice cold glass of sangria, so here's five of the best places to grab one in Leeds.
Sangria - the perfect fruity beverage which just screams lazy summer afternoons in the sun with friends.
Originating in Spain, the delicious punch usually consists of wine, chopped fruit and brandy or vermouth and is the ultimate shareable thirst-quencher.
Even the satisfying sound of the wooden spoon mixing the ice and fresh fruit together is enough to get our mouths watering, so we've cherry picked a few of our favourite spots in the city where you can enjoy a glass, or a jug, or jugs.
Bomba Paella
1 Saw Mill St, Holbeck
Image: Bomba Paella
Bomba Paella is an independent Spanish restaurant and tapas bar located in Holbeck, Leeds.
They’re known for serving up authentic paella and a range of classic tapas dishes so you can get your Spanish fix right here in Leeds – and of course with that comes amazing sangria, right?
They serve up sangria by the glass or by the jug, in white, red or rose. Laden with fresh fruit and served ice cold, it's the perfect tipple to share amongst friends on their gorgeous outdoor terrace. Oh, and they also host a bottomless brunch with bottomless sangria, weekend plans sorted? We think so.
El Gato Negro is a fantastic little neighbourhood tapas spot located on Park Row. Not only do they serve up brilliant sangria but they have fantastic deals on tapas dishes throughout the week.
So if you fancy a casual, Spanish-inspired lunch then this is the place to be. We recommend the Cava Sangria, a sparkling wine concoction topped with fresh fruit, limoncello and lemonade - we challenge you to find a more refreshing drink in all of Leeds.
They only serve one style of sangria, but boy oh boy do they do it well. The Classic Sangria is jam packed with seasonal fresh fruit, orange juice, cinnamon, red wine and lemonade. A special drink for a special occasion.
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 -
20th June 2023 
