There's never been a better time to test out vegan food.
Another year has passed, and as January fast approaches, the new year's resolutions start to pile up. Promises of dry January are made in a hungover state, but we all know as soon as we're back in work and celebrating a birthday, a wedding, getting through a Monday... whatever your excuse, we know sometimes these promises are made in good faith but in reality won't last more than a few days.
Veganuary is a new, new year's trend where a person goes vegan for the month of January and is a new year's resolution that's far easier to stick to than giving up booze or your favourite takeaway- especially now there are so many vegan options around.
In Leeds, we're overwhelmed with vegan options, in fact, there's not a restaurant we've seen now that doesn't offer a plant-based alternative and we bet that you can find a healthy alternative to your usual meaty or dairy-based meals.
Banyan is offering 50% off all dishes in January. / Image: Banyan Bar
Banyan is taking veganuary to the next level and ensuring you don't have to break the bank or pause your 30-day-challenge for the sake of a night out.
On the menu, you'll find a perfect January detox dish– the Tofu Revitalise Bowl, a nourishing mix of butternut squash, red and golden beets, avocado and quinoa.
For a heartier option, their Meatless Meatball Melt, topped with melted vegan cheeze and spicy marinara sauce will make the perfect lunch but if you’re looking for a dish bursting with flavour, Banyan’s South Indian Curry features an array of vegetables and Indian spices, proving that the days of bland vegan food are far behind us.
Oh, and did we mention there's 50% off all dishes in January? Veganuary has never been more accessible- just make sure to read the T&Cs on the Banyan website as the offer is only valid on selected days, when you pre book your table.
This does mean that your meat-eating mates can also grab their plates at half the price too- so there's absolutely no excuses for now getting yourselves down for a midweek treat.
Running from Tuesday 4th January 2022, veganuary has inspired and supported more than half a million people to try going vegan during their 2021 campaign – with participants from over 200 countries and territories. This year, we can only hope more people get involved in this one month challenge to eat sustainably without compromising on flavour and flair.
Banyan has truly put down roots in Leeds, with locations in City Centre, Horsforth, Roundhay and Ilkley, as well as further afield locations like York, Harrogate, Manchester (Spinningfields and The Corn Exchange) and Newcastle- and you can grab your veganuary foodie fix at any one of their locations.
Banyan is the ideal spot for a vegan-friendly evening out. / Image: Banyan Bar
Beloved Leeds restaurant Salvo's has closed suddenly due to 'unexpected dispute' with landlord.
Salvo's over on Otley Road in Headingley is a real Leeds institution.
Having first opened in 1976, it has been serving generations of families for fifty years with its authentic Italian menu.
The much loved restaurant announced the heartbreaking news to their social media today stating that the unexpected closure is down to an 'unexpected dispute' with their landlord.
The post read: "To our dearest customers, friends, and supporters,
"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we must share some devastating news. Due to an unexpected dispute with our landlord, we have been forced to close our doors effective immediately.
"This morning, the landlord changed the locks and denied our team access to the premises. This means we are, with immediate effect, unable to honor any existing bookings, provide table service, or welcome you for the dining experience we love to create.
"We want to be unequivocally clear: We have always met our obligations, including rent and all bills. Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly, not just to serve exceptional food, but to build a community within our walls. Through the immense challenges of the hospitality economy, we fought to stay afloat, committed to our staff, our suppliers, and most of all, to you.
"Our hope now is to resolve this matter as quickly as possible. We remain committed to our dream and to serving you again."
The post continued: "From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your incredible support, your laughter that filled our dining room, and your loyalty. It has been our greatest honor to serve you.
"We will update you here as soon as we have more information. Please keep our team in your thoughts."
Cult favourite burger chain Burgerism given green light to open in Leeds suburb
Clementine Hall
An award-winning burger chain can now open a new branch in a Leeds suburb after plans have been agreed.
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.
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.
Images: The Manc Group
Burgerism recently applied to move into a vacant shop unit in Meandwood 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.
Burgerism's new takeaway will be near the famed Zucco restaurant and The Meanwood Tavern, perfect for those looking for some post-pint burgers.
The planning officer's report stated that the applicant must give sufficient details of extraction equipment to prevent the odour for people living above.
It read: “The application site relates to a vacant ground floor premises within a parade of three commercial units in a local town centre. Above the premises are three floors of purpose-built self-contained flats.”
A design report by Burgerism read: “The proposal will ensure the continued use of a vacant hot food takeaway and will support the continued viability of the town centre of Meanwood, with an exciting new operator in the market.”
The brand-new Burgerism would employ 15 people from the local area and would serve food between 11am and 11pm.
We'll keep you up to date as and when we find out more, so you can get your Burgerism fix.
Sophie Smith -
27th December 2021 
