It’s definitely gelato season, and we’ve found a gorgeous little spot just outside Leeds selling some of the best around.
Called The Milk Churn, it's located in a little village called Scarcroft and is roughly a twenty-minute drive from the city centre. This spot is definitely well worth the trip, having received some rave reviews for its authentic and fresh Yorkshire gelato.
Everything here is made in the classic Italian style - different from ice cream in that it uses more milk and less cream, resulting in a richer and denser frozen dessert that has less air in it and be more full of flavour.
Making gelato is considered a serious art, especially in Italy (where the treat originates) where there are even gelato universities. And here at The Milk Churn, the milk and cream used in their gelato-making process come straight from the farm. It really doesn't get any fresher than this.
The team that makes the gelato here trained in Italy at the Gelato University in Bologna before bringing their skills home to Yorkshire.
As a result, the farm shop and gelato cafe has fast been developing a reputation for the "freshest and most delicious" ice cream in and around Leeds, pulling in some rave reviews online.
"It’s a spot that is quite unknown, but honestly if you love good ice cream, then get yourself there!" said one reviewer.
"The ice cream itself is hands down the creamiest around. Good quality ice cream at a reasonable price. The cones are proper waffle cones, and they also offer tubs if preferred. The variety of flavours is always second to none and you will always be stuck on at least 2 flavours!"
The variety here changes daily, which is perfect for those who want to get stuck in and try as many different types of gelato as possible - and there is also a range of lactose-free sorbettos on offer, perfect for vegans and anyone with a milk intolerance.
There's also a great little play area here for the kids / Image: Grace Newton
Sorbetto differs from sorbet in that it is served warmer and is silky smooth just like gelato - no crunchy ice crystals here.
The products here are branded ‘Tomoli’ in a sweet nod to the family connection behind it. The name is derived from the next generation of the family here, Thomas and Olivia who, it's hoped, will take the farm and the Milk Churn forward one day.
Typical flavours on offer tend to include blackcurrant, triple chocolate, honeycomb, orange, strawberry, vanilla and cookies and cream - but these change every day so you're always going to be in with a bit of a surprise.
Sorbetto flavours on offer, meanwhile, include mango, raspberry and strawberry and and mint.
Not only is there gorgeous gelato to be found here, it's also a great day out for the little ones as you can take them to meet the cows on the farm and even give them a stroke.
Plonk yourself down, either in the cafe inside or out in the garden on one of the picnic benches, and tuck into some of the finest frozen dessert this side of the Med - we promise, you won't regret it.
Find The Milk Churn on Beechgrove Farm in Scarcroft on Wetherby Road, LS14 3HQ.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in 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.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Beloved Leeds takeaway Souvlaki Corner to open new restaurant in Morley next month
Clementine Hall
A new Souvlaki Corner is set to open in south Leeds.
If you're a Leeds local who loves food, then you'll have most likely heard and dined at Souvlaki Corner.
It's an absolute gem of a restaurant and takeaway, situated in Wortley selling fabulous authentic Greek food at a great price.
And now they're opening a new site in the nearby town of Morley which is going to be even bigger and better. Get in.
The new site will feature a bigger space with more seating, offering both dine-in and takeaway options, as well as a brand-new bar.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Now you're talking our language.
Souvlaki Corner told The Hoot: "We’re excited to confirm that Souvlaki Corner will be opening a new site in Morley, Leeds. Our targeted opening is in around four weeks, although we don’t have an exact opening date yet and will confirm this closer to the launch.
"One of the highlights of the new restaurant will be a traditional Greek spit where we will cook whole lamb in the proper Greek way. It will be cooked over charcoal to give the authentic Greek flavour that people would experience in Greece.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Our chefs are Greek, bringing authentic knowledge and experience from Greece. The interior design will also reflect the style of the Greek islands, so when people visit they will feel like they are stepping into a little part of Greece."
They continued: "Souvlaki Corner was created to bring authentic Greek street food to Leeds, focusing on freshly grilled souvlaki, gyros, and traditional flavours served quickly and affordably. Since launching our first location, the response from customers has been fantastic, and Morley felt like the natural next step as we continue to grow."