SALT bars have become something of a Leeds staple.
Whether you're looking for a post-work pint by the Leeds Liverpool canal and want to tuck into some falafels or you're bottomless brunching in the city centre with the Cheesy Living Co. X SALT Leeds City offering, it feels like the bar group has a location for every possible occasion.
Now adding a brand new venture, (the ninth of its kind) SALT Calls Landing is the latest bar to open from the company- and there's going to be an incredible choice of food and drink to while away the wintry nights.
Image: Supplied (PGHL)
Based in, you guessed it, Calls Landing, the new opening will be taking over the Stew & Oyster spot below tapas hotspot Ambiente Tapas Bar. Steeped in industrial heritage, this much-loved Leeds location effortlessly combines the tranquility of the canal's still waters with an incredible atmosphere that'll get your weekend started in no time.
Picture a brick-built venue with original steel columns, oak flooring and low ceilings that creates a truly unique space that's welcoming and intimate without losing that sociable atmosphere that's loved at SALT bars.
The new bar space is set to feature a whopping twenty different types of tequila (the hot spirit of the moment that's having a bigger return to popularity than gin did), as well as eight different 'on tap' cocktail options similar to those SALT has built its reputation on.
SALT beers are known and loved across the city. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
There's going to be plenty to snack on too. Inspired by the seasons, expect a range of Yorkshire pies, with classic steak and ale, chicken and bacon with all the trimmings, as well as vegan options aplenty and sweet treats (including brownies) for those looking for a lighter bite to start or end the night.
SALT Founder Jamie Lawson is excited about the new opening in Leeds: "There’s something for everybody at SALT. Our latest venue will feature a bold and vibrant interior design against a backdrop of historic features creating a laid back environment for guests to unwind in. The latest home for all things SALT is the iconic Calls Landing building on the banks of the River Aire."
"We are very proud of how far we have come in such a short time; we have development plans in place to launch more taprooms across England in 2023 but for now we can’t wait to welcome the people of Leeds into our newest venue SALT Calls Landing, just in time for the busy festive season."
"The purpose of beer is to create pleasure and we can’t wait to see you at the bar."
Whether you're a student or not, Bakery 164 is a Leeds staple.
And you really can't miss it either.
Standing proudly opposite the Parkinson Steps on the corner of Woodhouse Lane, their bright yellow and red canopy lures you in if the inviting smell of fresh bread hasn't already.
They've been serving the students of Leeds since 1994, and are known for their specialist sandwiches that won't break the bank.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
On a lunchtime you'll have to join the queue of hungry students looking to get their fix, but it's well worth the wait.
The bread is what they do best, every evening they hand mix and hand shape their ciabatta and focaccia dough, which is then baked overnight so it’s fresh out of the ovens in the morning.
Then come the fillings, at Bakery 164 they specialise in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, using seasonal ingredients and local produce wherever possible.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Signature sandwiches include grilled chicken, halloumi and bacon with chilli mayo, prosciutto, mozzarella, pesto and sun-dried tomato as well as meatballs and mozzarella with Reggae Reggae sauce.
A price for a sandwich comes in at around a fiver, and they easily wipe the floor with any meal deal sarnie you can grab from a supermarket round the corner.
Just choose your sandwich, take it to the till and they'll warm it up for you there and then at no extra cost.
And it's not just sandwiches, they've also got fresh coffee on offer to keep you going between lectures as well as a selection of freshly baked cakes and sweet treats.
National food critic crowns Leeds restaurant as one of his top three in Britain
Clementine Hall
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.