Behind Closed Doors, a cocktail bar that comes with a debaucherous twist, has confirmed the location of its very first Leeds bar.
The self-professed 'naughty' bar is a well-known name in Manchester, where it operates speakeasy-style in a Northern Quarter basement and has done for almost a decade.
News of its arrival into Leeds broke earlier this week, but Behind Closed Doors has now revealed exactly where it'll be opening.
The bar is set to take over the former Wire nightclub on Call Lane, with an August launch date pencilled in.
You can expect it to bring its ethos of Sex, Rugs & Funk ’n’ Soul to our fair city - which means vintage erotica all over the walls, sexy mannequins and adult TV on the walls.
You can also call other people in the bar through retro phones on every table.
They say the new opening for Leeds will put the ‘D’ in debauchery.
'The more adventurous party-goer' will ring a bell to enter through a secret door, then will spend a night drinking cocktails like the Love Bite (pink gin, raspberry and cucumber slushie), Smoke my Sweet (a barrel stave smoked old fashioned) and Chocstar Martini (a chocolate espresso martini with whipped cream top).
Other tasty tipples include the penis colada and schlong island iced tea.
Director and creator of Behind Closed Doors, Nick Parr, said: “Leeds has an enviable reputation for its nightlife, and it was the immediate choice as the location for our second venue.
“When you visit Behind Closed Doors you enter a liberating, hedonistic atmosphere, where we want guests to release their inhibitions.
"From the scandalous décor and tempting drinks to the live DJ’s playing eclectic funk, soul and disco music, we’ve created a place where you can really show your wild side and indulge a few guilty pleasures.
“As someone who has partied in the city many times, I know that the people of Leeds are going to love what we have in store for them.”
Behind Closed Doors is due to open on Call Lane in August.
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 -
28th June 2024 
