A neighbourhood restaurant has been named the best local spot not just in Leeds, but in all of Britain.
The brilliant Bavette over in Horsforth has topped the Good Food Guide's prestigious list of the 100 Best Local Restaurants.
The huge achievement comes just months after the French bistro first opened its doors, and it's beaten off some stiff competition from right across the UK to get to the number one spot.
Bavette, founded by husband and husband team Sandy Jarvis and Clément Cousin, has been hailed by the restaurant review bible for as ‘the model of a perfect local restaurant’.
Judges said that Bavette has ‘raised the game in this corner of Leeds and beyond’, catching the eye of locals and foodies across the nation (in case you missed it, this local spot has also already made it into the Michelin Guide…)
The Good Food Guide added that it is an ‘impressive win and one that is richly deserved’.
Inside Bavette in Horsforth. Credit: The Hoot LeedsThe beautiful Bavette has been named Britain's best local restaurant by The Good Food Guide. Credit: The Hoot Leeds
Chloë Hamilton, co-editor of The Good Food Guide, said: ‘With Sandy and Clément’s backgrounds in some of London’s top establishments (Terroirs, where they met, is a strong influence), opening a restaurant together in an outer suburb of Leeds looked great on paper.
"But the way they’ve brought it to life – excellent bistro cooking, an adventurous, engaging wine list (including bottles from Clément’s family of organic winemakers in the Loire), and the energy and warmth of the team – make it irresistible.
"They’ve had 1st birthday parties and 90th birthday parties here. It has lit up the community."
Reflecting on their win, Sandy and Clément said: "We are completely gobsmacked about winning the Best Local Restaurant Award.
Bavette in Leeds serves brilliant French food. Credit: The Hoot LeedsOwners Sandy and Clement said they're 'completely gobsmacked' to be named Britain's Best Local Restaurant. Credit: The Hoot Leeds
"To be included in the top 100 in our first few months would have been a great achievement but to be the overall winners is such a huge honour and testament to all the hard work of the team since day one, so this is for them.
"Our sign above the door says 'a neighbourhood bistro' and being a great local restaurant is everything we wanted Bavette to be. Thank you to everyone who has come through our doors over the past five months, you’ve made Bavette what it is."
This year, more than 60,000 votes were cast in The Good Food Guide's 100 Best Local Restaurants guide, leaving a panel of experts to anonymously eat in the front-running restaurants across the UK.
Also making the list in Leeds were The Empire Cafe and Hern, while Coin in Hebden Bridge also soared into the top 100.
"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.”
Daisy Jackson -
24th July 2024 
