This cosy eatery has been serving the people of Ilkley for 20 years.
If you're a local to the beautiful spa town of Ilkley, or you're clued up on fantastic restaurants in the area, then there's no doubt that you'll have heard of Emporio Italia.
This family-run spot with Luigi at the helm is about as authentic as it gets.
Adorned with black and white family portraits on the walls, bags of pasta stacked neatly on shelves and bottles of Aperol standing proudly behind the bar, it's alike to a trattoria you'd find in one of Rome's bustling neighbourhoods.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
There's no physical menu, instead after you've been served a complimentary plate of antipasti and your chosen drink by his daughter Fabrizia, Luigi will come out from the kitchen and talk you through the specials of the day.
Every day is different, meaning every thing is fresh.
On our particular visit Luigi had cooked up his famous lasagna, which we knew was famous as the announcement was met with ruptures of applause.
We ordered this alongside their house special, the Penne alla Montanara, and both were absolutely delicious.
The lasagna was made using Luigi's traditional family recipe, using sliced boiled eggs, pork sausage and beef. It was probably the best lasagna we've ever had.
The house special featured a glossy sauce made up of Calabrian sausage, porcini mushrooms, red onions, tomato and basil.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Also on the menu was fresh gnocchi with salmon, tagliatelle with pesto and more tempting dishes that we definitely could've devoured.
As we ate we started chatting to the tables around us, many of whom explained they honour the same booking week in, week out. And it's not hard to see why.
Emporio Italia is everything you want from a neighbourhood Italian restaurant. Good food, a good atmosphere and good people.
They're open Wednesday-Saturday for two lunch sittings, and on Saturday evenings.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Clementine Hall
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Clementine Hall -
30th January 2025 
