Leeds is bursting at the seams with new openings, and we’re here to fill you in on our favourites.
So far 2025 has brought a whole lot of newness to the city, from a fabulous new pub to a gorgeous independent ice cream shop, it's safe to say it's giving us lots to brag about.
But if you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months (and to be honest we don’t blame you for doing so), then allow us to show off for a minute about five of our favourites.
So, without further ado…
Melting Point Ice Cream
Downstairs in the Corn Exchange, Call Lane, LS1 7BR
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Melting Point Ice Cream is your newest independent ice cream spot and its putting Ben and Jerry's to shame.
Leeds’ own Willy Wonka, Johno is serving up next-level flavours, from indulgent Peanut Butter & Coconut to the daring Goat’s Cheese & Stem Ginger, yes Goat’s Cheese Ice Cream
And if you’re craving something a little more refreshing, then the Mango Sorbet is calling your name. Ranging from £3.50 to £7, depending on the amount of scoops, this spot has got you covered.
The Cheesy Living Co.
Pudsey, 8 Church Lane, LS28 7BD
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Everyone's favourite deli and eatery, The Cheesy Living Co., opened in Pudsey last month and it's unsurprisingly absolutely brilliant.
This beautiful sun-drenched spot is kitted out in Cheesy’s signature style, with shelves adorned with local goodies and neon signs jazzing up the walls.
Here you'll find everything from fluffy focaccia sarnies to customisable charcuterie boards and their signature fondue.
The Swine Bistro
77A Otley Road, Headingley, LS6 3PS
Images: The Hoot Leeds
One of the most highly-anticipated openings of the year is ready and raring to welcome guests to their brand-new spot in Headingley… we’re of course talking about the wonderful Swine Bistro.
Jo and Stu are the definition of a dream team who have been refining their craft over the past twelve years, and their new restaurant is a testament to their talent.
It’s an absolutely wonderful spot which they’ve renovated all themselves, but although the space may be new they’re still cooking and serving the food they love and we assure you you’ll love it too.
The Highland Laddie
36 Cavendish Street, Leeds, LS3 1LY
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The impressive team behind The Empire Cafe have a brand new venture - The Highland Laddie is a new gastropub that’s taking over the old The Highland pub and bringing it back to its former glory (and then some).
Thought and care runs throughout this pub from the perfectly considered renovations to the elevated classics like the hefty sausage roll and flavoursome chicken drumsticks.
Alfonso's
4-5 Grand Arcade, LS1 6PQ
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Exciting news folks, Alfonso's deli has finally touched down in Leeds.
From the team behind Thiccc Sauce, this spot is all about cold cuts, smoked meats and stacked New York-style sandwiches that’ll have you questioning if you’re still in the Grand Arcade or somewhere in Brooklyn.
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.
Clementine Hall -
28th April 2025 
