The hibernation is over and the time has finally come to welcome Green Room back to Leeds - now newly-expanded and better than ever before.
The beloved city centre venue, famed especially for its huge rooftop terrace, has unveiled a new look after expanding into the building next door.
Green Room 2.0 features a brand-new basement space with live music and tequila cocktails, set to 'redefine what Leeds' nightlife can be'.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
By day, there'll be bottomless brunches (brunch tacos, huevos rancheros, bottomless fizz, beers, spritzes, spicy mango margaritas and passionfruit coolers) served up alongside a live band.
And as the hours while by, the new Green Room basement space will transform into a late-night club with live music and DJs until the early hours.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Events in this brand-new space will include open mic nights, burlesque shows, comedy and loads more.
Resident food legends Bastard's Bistro are delivering a new brunch and lunch menu, served until 4pm every day including a bottomless brunch and Sunday roasts at weekends, with local independent pop-ups on the terrace in the evenings.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
There's a bigger bar and a spacious new bar area, and that legendary rooftop terrace has been given a boost with a roofed area and connection straight to the new loos.
Speaking ahead of the reopening, owner Will Habergham said ‘Green Room has always been about bringing people together, and with this expansion, we’re taking that to the next level.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"From bold new flavours in the kitchen to a late-night vibe like no other in the basement, we can’t wait for everyone to experience what we’ve been working on.
"Leeds deserves a space that’s vibrant, welcoming, and totally unique and this is it."
Green Room officially reopens today, Friday 14 February, with an open invite to their launch party from 8pm.
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."
An intimate Japanese katsu bar with only 15 seats is coming to Leeds city centre
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.
Daisy Jackson -
14th February 2025 
