Lashings of frozen margaritas and vibrant, traditional dishes - it doesn't get more authentic than this.
There are a few restaurants in Leeds that have reached cult status, and we'd say that Lupe's Mexican Cantina on Cardigan Road has gained that accolade.
This family-run, no frills spot has been serving authentic Mexican dishes for almost a decade now.
All the recipes used are passed down from head chef Rudy's family, and if you're not familiar with Mexican cuisine then they're more than happy to talk you through the menu.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Of course you've got your classics like the homemade guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips, quesadillas and tacos, but it's the other stuff on the menu that gets us really excited like the sea bass in green mole and the mussels in a creamy chipotle white wine sauce.
Seriously, we were spooning the sauce into our mouths with a spoon by the end of it.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's also a great spot for those who are gluten free, as most dishes can be made with corn tortillas rather than flour.
There's a big outdoor terrace perfect for sipping some frozen margaritas in the sunshine, whilst the inside is cosy and adorned with vibrant orange accents and nods to Mexico.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The service is comforting and warm, and the prices are unbelievably reasonable for the quality of food and the ingredients used.
If you're looking to enjoy something different then your average meal out, then Lupe's Cantina is your best bet and we wouldn't be surprised if it becomes your favourite spot in the city.
One of the city's best independents is expanding into a bigger premises.
Shokupan on Wellington Street is a proper little gem that food-lovers across Leeds will rave nonstop about if given the opportunity.
Husband and wife team Alan and Alison took inspiration from trips around the world to bring a taste of Japan to the city and over the past few years it's gained a loyal following.
They're famed for their delicious Japanese sandos made with pillow-like fluffy shokupan bread, stuffed with everything from crunchy chicken katsu and flavourful pork to fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
But it's not all just about sandwiches, they also serve rice bowls and katsu curries as well as small bites such as chicken karaage and octopus balls.
Their food is so bloody good, that they've had to find a better location and this time it's slap bang in the city centre on Central Road.
And they're joining brilliant company too, with the likes of House of Koko and Vinyl Grounds as neighbours.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Shokupan said: "You guessed right…we are moving to Central Road, LS1 6DE. We are nearly there…
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"All the building work is complete and now we are finishing off the decorating. You might also start to see some signage appearing over the next few days…It has been lovely seeing some of our customers dropping by to see us whilst we slowly lose our sanity.
"Powered on caffeine and determination! Not long to go before we can announce our opening date and welcome you through the doors."
We can't wait to check out the new space, keep an eye on their opening date here.
Cult favourite burger chain Burgerism is officially coming to Leeds this August
Clementine Hall
An award-winning burger chain is coming to one of Leeds' suburbs.
If you don't know Burgerism, then get to know.
The Manchester-based burger chain is known by many for its incredible smash patties and quick, reliable service.
Their concept is simple: good burgers made with quality ingredients and cooked fresh to order. Delicious.
And it's not just burgers, they've also got some great wings and fries available too with a range of homemade sauces on offer for dunking, drizzling and devouring. We're a particular fan of the buffalo wings with their garlic ranch dip.
The chain used to have a dark kitchen on the outskirts of the city where people could order via Deliveroo, however this closed down and since then there's been a Burgerism-shaped hole left in our foodie scene.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Burgerism recently applied to move into a vacant shop unit in Meanwood at 605 Meanwood Road, seeking change-of-use planning permission for the former Papa Johns site which was previously only allowed to serve...well, pizzas.
And the plans have now been approved, which means Burgerism will officially be coming to Leeds. Hurray!
Burgerism's new takeaway will be walking distance from the The Meanwood Tavern, perfect for those looking for some post-pint burgers.
It will be strictly takeaway with no dine-in option available.
The brand-new Burgerism will employ 15 people from the local area with food being served between 11am and 11pm.
We'll keep you up to date as and when we find out more, but for now we're aware that Burgerism Leeds is set to open this August.
Clementine Hall -
9th September 2025 
