Big Buns are back in The Brewery Tap with a brand spanking new menu and boy oh boy, it does not disappoint.
You know when you're just craving a proper burger? Well, if that's you right now then make your way to Big Buns where they'll make all your burger dreams come true.
Located inside The Brewery Tap on New Station Street, it's the perfect spot to catch up with friends, have a drink and chow down on some tasty, delicious food.
Their new menu is truly a showstopper, featuring a massive list of burgers, loaded fries, wings and even a cheeky dessert which is definitely worth saving room for.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
First up we tried the Clucky Buffalo, in between a pillowy brioche bun was tender chicken encapsulated in a crunchy crispy batter, dunked in a sauce which was terrifically tangy and had the perfect amount of zing to get your tastebuds dancing.
If chicken isn't your thing then The Don'ner could be the one for you, featuring a double smash beef patty piled high with delicious pieces of gourmet Donner meat, if you can get your chops around it then you're in for an absolute treat.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
There's also a Planty burger on the menu which is just as juicy and flavourful as the meat, you can opt for the Blue Cheese topping or the Frenchy which consists of ooey, gooey caramelised onions. All of the burgers come with shredded iceberg lettuce, American cheese and pickles, so all the flavours balance out effortlessly and we promise you won't be reaching for the ketchup.
Now, have you ever tried Katsu Gravy? Because we highly suggest you do. Big Buns are offering it in the form of Katsu Loaded Fries which are drenched in it and topped with crispy chicken pieces, fresh chillies and house cheese sauce.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Or you can get a pot on the side and dip anything and everything in it, or you can just drink it straight from the pot but you might get some funny looks.
Oh and make sure you leave room for The Sweety Bun, a pillowy brioche bun oozing with Nutella, covered in Biscoff crumbs and drizzled with sticky honey. It’ll get messy but trust us, it is 100% worth it.
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Clementine Hall -
21st October 2022 
