Fuji Hiro has announced it's set to reopen in Leeds city centre, just months after announcing its closure.
The Japanese restaurant at the Merrion Centre shut down at the start of 2025, after almost three decades in town.
But now it's set to reopen under new management and with a fresh new look, focusing back on the offering that made it such a cult favourite in Leeds.
Fuji Hiro has received new investment from Leeds-born entrepreneur James Douglas, a co-founder of Red's True Barbecue.
He'll be working closely with the original kitchen team to revive the flavours and heritage that Fuji Hiro was so famed for.
Speaking about the plans, James Douglas said: "Fuji Hiro has held a special place in the hearts of Leeds locals for decades. I’ve been a fan since it first opened its doors in 1997, so to now take the reins and help write its next chapter is a real honour.
"We didn’t want to lose what made Fuji Hiro special, so we’ve kept as much of the original feel as possible. We’ve taken things right back to where it all started with a stripped-back menu of the core dishes it is famous for, such as ramen, noodles, gyoza and katsu.
"We are also really pleased to be able to bring back some of the former kitchen team who will be creating the original recipes, sauces, stocks and curry blends that make Fuji Hiro so special."
James Douglas is reopening Fuji Hiro. Credit: SuppliedFuji Hiro will reopen in Leeds this year. Credit: Supplied
As for the space itself at the Merrion Centre, it'll be given an interiors overhaul, with a new design and an improved layout with more seating capacity.
James added: "Fuji Hiro was always lauded for being a hidden gem, but restaurants don't survive without regulars. I am bringing Fuji Hiro back because I loved it enough to want to help give it one more shot.
"But the truth is, most independents don’t get that second chance. If you want your favourite spots to stick around, don’t just talk about them, go and eat there."
Charles Newman, Associate Director at Town Centre Securities PLC, owners of the Merrion Centre, said: “Fuji Hiro has long been one of Leeds’ most iconic restaurants, and we’re delighted to welcome it back to the Merrion Centre to continue its story. Its return is testament to the loyalty of its customers and the strength of our food scene. We look forward to seeing it flourish once again.”
Fuji Hiro is set to open its doors on Thursday 12 June.
The beloved Domino Club is receiving its flowers, and rightly so.
Rapidly becoming one of the industry’s most respected accolade of excellence, The Pinnacle Guide is a worldwide ranking of the best bars across the globe.
Based on a thorough self-application process, rigorous assessment modules, followed by a series of spot check interviews and anonymous in-bar reviews, it's no easy feat to get a spot on this list.
Which is why it makes The Domino Club's achievement all that more impressive.
Known amongst locals and visitors alike as basically one of the coolest bars in town, the hidden speakeasy invites you through a barbershop in the Grand Arcade where downstairs you'll find a dimly lit jazz and cocktail bar oozing sex appeal.
Not only are the cocktails exceptional, but their live music listings is something to behold playing everything from jazz and funk to cabaret and disco every Wednesday - Sunday.
Announcing the news to Instagram, The Domino said: "Listed by The Pinnacle Guide. The Domino Club has been recognised on the global list of the world’s best bars.
"What began as a hidden basement bar in Leeds, built around live music, cocktails and atmosphere, is now being recognised alongside some of the finest bars in the world.
"A huge thank you to our team, musicians, suppliers and every single guest who has supported us over the years. This means a lot. Leeds belongs on the world cocktail map."
We absolutely could not agree more and if you haven't ventured behind the barbershop and discovered the magical Domino Club, then we very much recommend you do.
A Caribbean street food restaurant famed for its jerk chicken is opening in Leeds this week
Clementine Hall
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is coming to Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
Gosh, we're suddenly feeling very hungry.
Image: The Manc Group
Jerk Junction will officially be opening to the public from 12pm on Tuesday 12 May 2026, and you can bet we'll be first in line to get our hands on a big tray of jerk chicken and rice.
Josie Towning, Food and Beverage Manager at Trinity Leeds, said: “There’s been a lot of interest in the upcoming arrival of Jerk Junction since it was announced. Bringing a taste of the Caribbean to Trinity Kitchen, it’ll be the place to be when it opens its doors next week.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “We’re all about good vibes and creating dishes that help bring people together. We’re looking forward to bringing the Jerk Junction spirit to Trinity Kitchen. The brand already holds a special place within the communities in Manchester and Liverpool – and we’re sure the people of Leeds will embrace it in the same way.”
The latest announcement follows the recent launches of schuh and LEGO at Trinity Leeds, which will also welcome the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand, Lane7, and Footasylum later this year.
Daisy Jackson -
30th May 2025 
