The ongoing construction work on Central Road may have claimed another Leeds independent, as Brownhill & Co announces its 'likely' closure.
The news comes just weeks after the beloved Mrs Atha's shut for good, citing the 'two year desecration' of Central Road while Store House opposite (formerly House of Fraser) is redeveloped into a brand new student accommodation.
Family-run bar Brownhill & Co has now said it's faced 'complete radio silence' from its landlords, plus 'thoughtless upheaval' in Leeds city centre, and will 'very likely close' on Monday 6 May.
They said: "We are deeply saddened that our little family business will cease to exist after 10 years of very hard work."
Brownhill & Co added: "It’s been a big ten years & we’ve achieved a hell of a lot, we’re eternally thankful for the support of our incredible customers - many of whom have become great friends.
"We’d also like to convey deep regret to any businesses left out of pocket as a result of our closure, this is something we’ve worked desperately hard on to try and avoid over the last 9-12 months while faced with frankly impossible hurdles. We will continue to strive to find solutions where we can."
In response to Brownhill & Co's lengthy statement - which you can read in full HERE - a Leeds City Council spokesperson said: "We are sorry to hear of Brownhill & Co’s decision to close.
Leeds bar Brownhill & Co says it will close due to 'upheaval' construction work on Central Road. Credit: The Hoot Leeds
"The demolition and rebuild of the former House of Fraser building is not a council project and we understand that it is nearing completion, with the student residential element ready for September 2025. However we always endeavour to work with any businesses affected by construction work and offer whatever support we can.
"In this case, since this construction project began, we have been in constant dialogue with businesses on Central Road and the developers, setting up and attending stakeholder meetings to discuss how we could help over the life of the project.
"In addition, we have also installed city dressing banners promoting Central Road and provided street café licences free of charge as well as ensuring the developer has included business-as-usual messaging on site hoardings.
"We do recognise the impact of construction work on local businesses, and we are committed to helping mitigate this wherever and however we can. Business Rates discounts for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure businesses are set nationally by Government."
Renowned food critic Jay Rayner is singing his praises about a certain Leeds restaurant.
And it's probably a restaurant you've walked past time and time again, but have never thought to pop in.
Named Sous Le Nez, this independent French-inspired bistro and wine bar is tucked away in the basement of Quebec House on Quebec Street, right in the heart of the city centre.
Translating roughly as "under the nose", it's particularly fitting as its food and wine is now being hailed as some of the best in Britain by Jay Rayner himself.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Feeding the people of Leeds since 1991, has some of the best food in the city been under our nose this whole time?
Appearing on the Routes LNER podcast hosted by Jenni Falconer, Rayner was asked about his favourite three restaurants in Britain to which Sous Le Nez got a very special mention.
Jay Rayner said: “Sous Le Nez, an old stager in Leeds that has been there a very long time.
“Great wine list. Nothing on the menu will surprise you but it is done very very well.”
Elsewhere on the podcast, he gives a very quick shoutout Domo in Sheffield (also now in Leeds) for their special Lobster on toast.
It's safe to say that Jay loves a bit of Leeds, back in January he gave The Highland Laddie a glowing review hailing it 'the pub that refuses to die' and in 2024 he labeled Zucco in Meanwood 'the perfect Italian'.
High, high praise indeed. You can listen to the podcast here and you can find out more about the fabulous Sous Le Nez here.
Popular Yorkshire burger chain to move into old Five Guys site in Leeds city centre
Clementine Hall
From one burger chain to the next...
The big Five Guys site on Duncan Street by The Corn Exchange has been empty for quite some time now, after the chain moved into a new premises on the top floor of Trinity Shopping Centre.
But now, a new burger joint is taking its place.
Urban Fresh Burger was born back in 2017 over in Doncaster and has since built a cult following across Yorkshire, opening a total of five sites.
Their selling point is offering a 'healthier' style of burger using fresh and local ingredients, all of which are fully customisable and made to order.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
But don't just take our word for it, here's how Urban Fresh Burger describe themselves: "A healthier choice with flawless flavour, our signature smashed burgers and hand-cut fresh fries keep customers coming back.
"Our secret sauce? Choosing only the freshest, best quality ingredients from local suppliers. It’s a commitment we’ve held true to since day one, and one we’ll never compromise on."
So, what can you expect to see on the menu? Of course - burgers. We're talking beef burgers, chicken burgers and veggie burgers that come with free unlimited toppings so you can stack yours to your heart's desire.
Choose from a huge list such as lettuce, jalapenos, tomato, coleslaw, onion, grilled mushrooms - the list really does go.
Elsewhere on the menu you'll find chicken tenders, boneless wings, mozzarella sticks and milkshakes.
Pretty much, they're bringing everything you're craving on your next cheat day to Duncan Street, and we're sure it's going to go down a storm. We'll keep you updated with an opening date as and when we find out.
Find out more about what to expect from Urban Fresh Burger here.
Daisy Jackson -
7th May 2025 
