It looks like we’re set for another week filled with summer fun in and around Leeds.
It's going to be another scorcher this week, and not only is the weather hotting up but so are our calendars as Leeds is jam-packed with new openings, exciting events and unmissable music gigs.
Once again, we’ve cherry-picked a few of the best bits for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ guide this week.
Everyone's favourite Sicilian street food spot has just opened in the city centre after drawing fans from afar in their Kirkstall and Headingley locations.
This is their first full week of opening so stop by on your lunch break to grab an arancini, slice of pizza and a cannoli.
Headrow House Pub Quiz
Tuesday 13 June 2023 | Headrow House, Leeds City Centre
Image: Headrow House
The Headrow House pub quiz is something quite special. Located in their huge beer hall, nestled amongst their sixty plus lines of beers from around the world, they promise a night of quizzes and games: start with the pub quiz and if you’re successful, your prize will be selected when you spin the wheel of fortune.
Head down to Headrow House for 6.30 pm on a Tuesday evening and take full advantage of their free entry and grab a pint before getting your game face on.
Wednesday 14 June - Saturday 17 June | Carriageworks Theatre, Millenium Square
Image: Leeds Community Art Group
The unmistakable opening line of Dolly Parton’s hit “9 to 5” is brought to you by the award-winning LIDOS this week.
Based on the hilarious 1980’s movie, 9 to 5 is about three women teaming up, standing up and taking care of business. When workmates Violet, Doralee and Judy are pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss, Franklin Hart, they concoct a plan to kidnap him – but will their scheme to reform the office unravel when the CEO pays an unexpected visit?
The Collective will debut it’s brand new late night offering with an exclusive collaboration with award-winning chef Craig Rogan. Rogan, who is the son of 3 Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, has had an impressive career so far. After training in some of the UK’s most prestigious restaurants Craig received 3 AA rosettes in his first Head Chef role at 5-star hotel The Grand in York. Highlights are set to include Violet Potato with Ox Cheek & Lovage, Glazed Pork Rib with Fennel & Yuzu and Sweet Cheese with Clementine & Dark Chocolate.
Award winning comedian, actor and writer Jack Whitehall has said that this will be his most “personal” tour to date, and after three sell-out arena tours he is keen to get back on the road. Upon announcing, Jack Whitehall said: “This is my most personal show yet, with plenty of material about the big changes that have happened in my life. It’s about my struggle to settle down gracefully.
Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club
Saturday 17 June 2023 | The Wardrobe, St Peter's Square
Image: Craig Charles
Legendary actor, host and broadcaster Craig Charles is one of UK’s most beloved Funk and Soul DJs.
He’ll be showing off his back catalogue of seriously tangy tunes ranging from modern mash ups and classic takes of the wildest Funk & Soul around, plus some surprises thrown in to keep you guessing. Get your tickets here.
Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics
Sunday 18 June 2023 | Temple Newsam, Leeds
Image: Gigantic
Legendary DJ Pete Tong will be taking to the decks once more to bring a taste of Ibiza to Leeds. Grab a drink and dance as the sun goes down to true summer anthems .
Tickets are still available via See Tickets, priced at £51.75 each and available here
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Feature
Five of the best new openings in Leeds recently – from ice bath cafes to listening bars
Clementine Hall
It's been a brilliant couple of months for new openings in Leeds.
We don't know about you, but we think our city is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment.
There's been a flurry of new spots opening up, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Domo
Tower works, 2 Globe Rd, Holbeck, LS11 5QG
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Introducing Domo, an independent restaurant born in Sheffield that is loved by many for its delicious food, inviting atmosphere and stellar service.
Run by Raffaele Busceddu and Sarah May Elliott, Domo serves a range of traditional Sardinian specialities that aren't often seen outside the island, all made entirely in-house.
Located right on the water's edge, we've got a feeling this is going to be our go-to spot this summer for long lunches fuelled by spritzes.
Also born in Sheffield, this one's for the matcha lovers and we know there's a lot of you. Think iced banana bread matcha, superfood smoothies and refreshing acai bowls served in a super cool setting.
Kontrast
84-86 Railway Street, Saxton Gardens, LS9 8HB
Images: The Hoot Leeds
After already making a big name for themselves over in Manchester, Kontrast has brought its popular sauna and ice bath cafe concept over to Leeds. Located under the railway arches, Kontrast features two traditional saunas, one infrared sauna, and four ice baths, each varying in temperature between three and 13 degrees. It's the perfect space to enjoy solo or with a group of like-minded wellness-loving people.
Scott and his partner have opened the coolest, 70's inspired record bar that is full of his massive record collection alongside a carefully curated cocktail menu with a twist. With the best view of Sunny Bank Mills, Pardon Me is just the most chilled out place to watch the world go by whilst sipping on a coffee or a glass of wine whilst hearing everything from hip hop and soul to deep house, and disco. We loved our visit and we know you will too.
We all know and bloody love Silver's Deli over in Bramley, but now they’ve branched out to Farsley and opened the wonderful their very own bakery which is already a sell-out.
The all-new neighbourhood bakehouse is slinging out the likes of homemade focaccia, buttermilk brownies, sausage rolls, cookies, tiramisu and, of course, the ever-so-famous sandos but this time in homemade, fluffy focaccia.
Clementine Hall -
12th June 2023 
