Chow Down have announced that Winter Village will return later this year and that they will no longer be charging entrance fees.
If you live in Leeds, then you will definitely know about Chow Down in Temple Arches.
It's the ultimate weekend activity, think delicious food from a variety of different street food vendors, incredible drinks, live DJ's and an unbeatable, party atmosphere.
After a successful summer season spanning across twenty one electric weekends, the venue is temporarily closing it's gates to get ready for it's next upcoming events.
First up is Oktoberfest, the legendary event full of bratwurst and beer will be taking place over the course of two consecutive weekends.
Image: Oktoberfest Leeds
On the 23 - 24 September and 30th September - 1st October, the site will be filled with oompah dancing and stein swilling and it's set to be one for the memory books.
Last year saw palm trees being swapped for pine trees and sun terraces being transformed into cosy tipis. It was the perfect place to enjoy a mulled wine with friends whilst cosying up round a roaring fire, and we are delighted that it's coming back.
Open from 10 November til 31 December, Temple Arches will resemble a fairytale winter wonderland and is sure to get everybody into the festive spirit.
Yesterday 14 September 2022, Chow Down released a statement on their social media explaining that they will no longer be charging entrance fees for any of their customers.
The statement read "Ever since we opened in Leeds, we've listened to your feedback and strived to keep developing Chow Down to ensure it's the best possible place to experience amazing independent food, drink and entertainment in this great city we call home."
"We understand that rising costs are making times uncertain for many households. With that and your feedback in mind, entry to the venue will now be free of charge for the vast majority of the time at Winter Village."
The lovely people at Chow Down still encourage booking in advance to avoid disappointment and you can find out more about this here.
Thanks to Chow Down, the end-of-summer blues are no more as we look forward to the exciting events ahead.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Clementine Hall -
15th September 2022 
