A new Caribbean restaurant is opening in Leeds city centre after the council has granted it their alcohol license.
Jamrock is an independent bar and restaurant serving up traditional Caribbean cuisine and a mix of contemporary cocktails and beer.
Having opened in 2020 at a spot on Call Lane and gaining a loyal following, they are now moving to a new premises on Kirkgate but the move hasn't come without it's complications.
The unit, which was previously occupied by Domino's Pizza, features an outdoor courtyard which locals feared would be used by the restaurant's guests and thus create lots of noise late at night.
Image: Jamrock
But luckily for Jamrock, a panel of two councillors granted their application after owner, Oral Blackford, promised the venue's outdoor space would not be used by it's punters.
At a hearing on Tuesday 11 October 2022, it was said that the opening of the Caribbean restaurant would help cultural and economic growth and as it is a food based offering, will not cause significant noise disruption.
There were no objections at the hearing and in conclusion, the restaurant will be allowed to sell alcohol until 10.30pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends.
Image: Jamrock
Jamrock have yet to announce their new opening date but customers are already itching to get back and enjoy their menu full of Caribbean favourites.
Helmed by Jamaica-born Oral Blackford and inspired by his upbringing in Ocho Rios with his grandparents, you can expect fresh, delicious food made with love and soul that is bursting with flavour.
Image: Jamrock
From 24 hour marinated Jerk Chicken to Ackee and Saltfish, Jamaica's national dish, it is the perfect place to sample some authentic West-Indian cuisine right here in Leeds.
They also do a banging bottomless brunch which we can't wait to attend when they open back up.
To stay in the loop about Jamrock's highly anticipated opening, keep an eye on their social media.
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 -
19th October 2022 
