Much-loved Leeds bistro The Swine Bistro, formerly known as Swine That Dines, has announced a big move to Headingley.
Although it's gone through a few name changes over the years since launching as The Greedy Pig cafe in 2012, this independent spot has long been a firm favourite for Leeds locals.
Run by chef couple Jo and Stu Myers, they've been operating out of North Street where it's all about cooking seasonal produce simply and with an added 'little bit of sunshine'.
But now Swine Bistro is upping and moving to Headingley, taking up a unit previously occupied by Jam hairdressers on Otley Road.
We don't have long to wait - they plan to have the doors open in January 2025.
And as for its original North Street site, that will temporarily close at the end of December 2024 for refurbishment and will reopen with a new offer in the new year.
Swine Bistro has been Crowdfunding since July to help fund the move, raising a whopping £42,000 from the community that loves the place so much.
With this new restaurant they'll double their covers to 35, with an additional 12 covers in a private dining room, and still serving their lunch deal of two courses for £18 or three for £22.50.
The seasonal bistro dishes will be paired with wines from Latitude Wines, delicious puddings and the occasional pie.
The Myers will be welcoming head chef Kirsty Cheetham, who won Observer Food Monthly’s Best Sunday Lunch award in 2018 and 2022 when she ran The Queen o’t owd Thatch in South Milford, Leeds.
Jo Myers, co-owner of the Swine Bistro said: “We were hugely humbled by the support we had helping us raise the money to fund our next chapter. We are beyond excited about finally moving into a bigger restaurant with a kitchen that has space we can actually move in!
“Headingley is a vibrant suburb full of brilliant independent bars, restaurants, cafes and shops and we’re proud to be joining them.
"Rest assured, we won’t be fundamentally changing our menu, but the new space allows us to be more creative with our dishes as well as offer a fuller wine list, and even cocktails. We can’t wait to welcome people into our new home."
Stu Myers, Executive Chef at Swine Bistro said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Kirsty to our team and working collaboratively to develop unique and exciting dishes that tantalise our guests’ taste buds.”
The Swine Bistro will open in Headingley in January 2025.
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."
Daisy Jackson -
19th December 2024 
