Over 100 gins, over 20 draught lines from around the world, 7 pool tables, shuffleboard and Sky and BT Sports: will you really need to go anywhere else this summer?
Launching in the former Roxy venue in Leeds city centre, Concept Tavern is bringing a brand-new six-figure drinking and gaming hall just in time for summer.
Named, Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall, the huge venue is currently undergoing a dramatic £250k transformation. Expect floor-to-ceiling views of the city centre, between sips of signature cocktails and games of shuffleboard: this really is going to be the go-to hangout spot for large crowds.
On the menu, moreish comfort food will sit alongside fresh hand-stretched pizzas, a selection of delicious small plates including beetroot falafel, nachos and a renowned charcuterie selections.
Image: Supplied
Meanwhile, the drinks menu is set to boast one of the city’s most diverse range of drinks. In addition to their signature cocktail menu, Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall will offer guests at least 20 different local and international beers on draught and a staggering choice of over 100 different gins catering to all tastes, including the likes of Monkey 47, and Plymouth gin. Draught ales will include everything from Virtuous from local heroes Kirkstall Brewery to iconic tipples such as Guinness and Beavertown’s bestselling Neck Oil.
Sports fans will be delighted to see the span of games available here too. With all major Sky and BT events screened across several state-of-the-art HD screens, just in time for a summer of sport in preparation for this year's World Cup, Pinnacle just became a major contender for gaming bars across the city- and that's before you've had chance to check out the shuffleboard tables and seven pool tables.
The new Pinnacle Beer and Gin Hall venue will be open every day of the week from Thursday 19 May 2022.
Image: Supplied
Speaking ahead of the launch, Ben Warren, Concept Taverns Managing Director, said:
“After opening five new venues in the past year, we feel that Pinnacle Beer & Gin Hall is the tip of the iceberg for Concept Taverns. Combining all the best things we have learned in the city and surrounding areas, we feel our newest venue offers something special to Leeds with a truly unique hangout space for everyone to enjoy.’’
‘’Our handpicked selection of incredible beers, ales and gins from some of today’s most beloved providers has proven to be a winning formula across each of our bars, and the food, gaming and prime location of Pinnacle only adds to this. We look forward to welcoming our first guests just in time for summer.’’
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
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."
Sophie Smith -
25th April 2022 
