Hidden away in the Queens Arcade, Simpatico has been serving up some of the best Pizza al Taglio around for long enough for us to know that they know what they're doing when it comes to Italian cuisine.
Now, on a mission to showcase their treats to the brunchtime masses, Simpatico have launched Termini, a bottomless brunch experience not to be missed.
Named after Rome’s iconic central station at the heart of the Eternal City, expect fast-paced service, with every top up running to clockwork standards.
Of course, the drinks included pay homage to their namesake, so expect the likes of refreshing Aperol Spritz, G&Ts, and even top-tier beers like Peroni, served in 330ml bottles. There's a glass of fizz on arrival, plus Prosecco can be served throughout the sitting too, so there's something for every palette.
Image: Simpatico
The only thing missing from this authentic Italian experience is the beaming sunshine and 45 degree heat, though given it is only winter- we're willing to sacrifice the warmth for some delicious food and drink.
All these beverages are sure to get your stomach warmed up, and there's plenty of choice on offer. For starters (yes, you get two courses with this bottomless, how great is that?), guests are encouraged to tuck into an antipasto platter made up of cured meats, olives, warm slices of bread and classic cheeses like mozzarella, blues and good ol' cheddar.
Pizzas are served by the slice in true Simpatico style and the pick 'n' mix flavours are cooked fresh with flavours that will only be confirmed on the day. Expect classic margaritas, mushrooms, pepperoni as well as more exciting toppings like olives and salami chunks.
No two pieces are the same, the same as downstairs where Simpatico's endless menu changes on a regular basis- and we love that we never quite know what we'll be in for. Once you've had your first round of pizzas, you can keep your plate topped up throughout the entire experience with as many slices as you can manage to fit into the two hour sitting.
Image: Simpatico
So in brief, you're looking at an authentic Italian feast with unlimited pizza and booze for two hours- and it only comes to £29.95 per person, a bargain if you ask us.
There's space for forty upstairs in the bottomless dining area, but you can book as many or as few seats as you would like- just make sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. All bookings must be made online and cannot be made in store, so head to the Simpatico website to get your space reserved.
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.
Sophie Smith -
27th January 2022 
