We may be coming to the end of the year, but there's still plenty of new arriving in the city before 2025 is over.
It's safe to say we've have some fabulous new openings touch down in the city this year.
From new pubs by the canal to Scandinavian-inspired cafes, we really have been very lucky.
But we're not done just yet, as there's more to come before the year is out and we're here to tell you about five that we're most excited about.
So, let's see what's making its way to Leeds shall we...
Pop Mart
78 Briggate
Image: The Hoot Leeds
LeedsLabubu lovers (try saying that three times), your beloved Pop Mart is on its way.
Pop Mart has officially been granted permission for alterations and the fitting of a new sign for the building at 78 Briggate. So get ready, as the viral toy and collectables shop is just around the corner.
‘Vinyl Grounds’ will be serving up three of our favourite things rolled into one – coffee, wine and vinyl.
The brain child of Saroop and Jay, two Leeds locals with a passion for starting a business, the new spot is currently undergoing major renovation with an aim to open at the end of November.
So, what can we expect from Vinyl Grounds? During the day Vinyl Grounds will be a place to work or sit back and relax with friends whilst enjoying a fabulous coffee or matcha, all to the soundtrack of some smooth jazz played via vinyl of course.
Once Upon A Vine is a gorgeous independent wine shop and bar nestled in Horsforth, known for its fabulous tasting room and cheese boards to match.
And after applying for a license to open in Headingley that has just been approved, they’re about to open their second site on Otley Road.
The Victoria
Great George Street
Image: Supplied
You may remember back in January 2024, two of Leeds beer powerhouses announced they’d be collaborating and bringing an iconic pub back to life. Well after a few set backs, it is finally happening.
Kirkstall Brewery and the owners of Whitelock’s Ale House are set to breathe new life into The Victoria & Commercial Pub on Great George Street, located behind Leeds Town Hall.
It is set to open this Christmas, and we absolutely cannot wait.
The Savvy Baker is opening its first ever city centre cafe, and we couldn’t be prouder.
The cafe will be located on Bond Street next to Boots, a stone’s throw away from the train station and Trinity Shopping Centre.
Of course you’ll be able to grab all your favourite brownies, blondies, cookies and other bakes, but there’s some other exciting stuff in the works too.
For the first time ever the shop will feature a dedicated cookie bakery where customers will be able to watch (and smell) all the magic happening through the window. How class is that?
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 -
18th November 2025 
