We're almost into the last quarter of the year, and it's safe to say 2025 is leaving the best til last.
Although Leeds has seen some heartbreaking closures this year, we've also had a massive influx of new openings that we've loved welcome to the city.
And it's not stopping just yet, as we delve into the final few months of the year there's plenty of new spots ready to open their doors.
From high end shops in the Victoria Quarter to brunch spots famed over in Manchester making their way across the Pennines, we've handpicked five new openings coming to Leeds this year.
Federal
Boar Lane
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Federal, one of the most popular brunch spots in Manchester, is set to open its very first Leeds cafe...and we absolutely cannot wait.
The new 1,500 sq ft Leeds venue will seat 70 guests and will be located on Boar Lane, expect queues out the door and us firmly stood at the very front.
HYGGE, the much-loved Sheffield-based brunch and coffee spot, is setting up shop right here in Leeds.
Located on Woodhouse Lane, the new 2,000 sq. ft venue will be HYGGE’s fourth site and its first outside of Sheffield. Known for its inviting, chilled out atmosphere, HYGGE has become a staple for Sheffield students and locals alike.
Offering a selection of artisan coffees, matches and smoothies as well as a perfectly curated brunch menu made with locally sourced ingredients. Trust us, you're going to love it.
The north’s favourite Mexican is bringing not one, but two venues to Leeds City Centre this summer. Madre, the day-to-night eatery that has made waves over in Manchester and Liverpool, is setting up shop on Wellington Street.
And not only that but Salon Madre, its lively tequila bar and pool hall sibling, will open just around the corner. Now that’s a double whammy we can get behind.
For all your yoga bunnies, this one’s for you. The luxury activewear brand is opening one of its first stores outside of London right here in Leeds. Taking over the old Ted Baker site, it’s going to be a big one too.
Dough Club, a Manchester-based Detroit-style pizzeria, is planning to open up in Leeds.
Famed for their chewy, thick, cheesy crusts that are loaded with all the toppings imaginable, they'll be opening up a spot on Burley Road for all your pizza needs.
Matcha is well and truly taking Leeds (and the country) by storm.
You're probably bored of hearing us talk about matcha, and to be honest we're getting a little bit bored writing about it.
But, this time it's different.
This is M Plus Matcha, a brand-new matcha store that's just opened near Leeds University who not only serve your classic matcha lattes but also bucket loads of freshly-churned gelato.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
And to make things even better, they've got four on offer all at different percentages to suit your taste.
Soft and grassy, smooth and creamy, full and velvety…or deep and bold (they said it, not us) - this spot is truly a matcha lover’s summer paradise.Â
Images: The Hoot Leeds
If you're not sure what flavour you fancy, the lovely staff are on hand to help and can offer tasters of each percentage before you commit to a cone or a tub so you're not left disappointed.
The space is gorgeously light and airy, complete with matcha-coloured walls and plenty of matcha-coloured seating for you to perch and enjoy your treats.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Right opposite the Parkinson Building, we can see M Plus Matcha becoming a fantastic hub for students to whack their laptops out for a couple of hours whilst getting their caffeine fix.
The drinks menu includes iced matcha lattes, hot matcha, matcha lemonades and loads more. Basically, if you're of the opinion that matcha tastes like grass then we do not recommend you going.
But if you love it like us, then you're in for a treat.
Yorkshire pub ‘delighted’ to be crowned the best in the region for 2026
Clementine Hall
There's no denying that Yorkshire does pubs properly, but one in particular has been crowned the very best.
This year's National Pub and Bar Awards have been announced, where each year a team of experts pick the very best pub in the 94 counties across the UK.
Taking the number one spot for Yorkshire and the Humber is a fabulous little pub nestled in the bustling market town of Skipton.
The Woolly Sheep Inn is an award-winning, dog-friendly pub that is known for its huge selection of Timothy Taylor's cask ales and hearty pub grub.
Not only can you eat and drink here, but they've also got a few cosy rooms for you to stay in if you're planing on a quick staycation in North Yorkshire.
But don't just take our word for how brilliant it is, here's what the National Pub and Bar Awards had to say about it: "The Woolly Sheep Inn is a vibrant town-centre pub in the heart of Skipton, offering an exceptional combination of high-quality food, outstanding drinks and comfortable accommodation – all delivered with genuine Yorkshire hospitality.
"The team prides itself on creating a warm, welcoming environment where guests can enjoy everything from a relaxed drink at the bar to a celebratory meal or overnight stay. The offer blends traditional pub values with a progressive approach to quality and service, ensuring the site appeals to both loyal locals and visitors to the area."
Announcing the exciting news, The Woolly Sheep Inn said: "We're delighted to share that The Woolly Sheep Inn has been named Yorkshire and the Humber regional winner at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2026.
"This award is a proud moment for everyone at the pub and reflects the years of hard work, care, and commitment that Andy, Drea, and the team have put into making The Woolly Sheep such a special place to eat, drink, and stay in Skipton."
You can have a look at all of the pubs that won in the awards here.