Boot and Rally in Meanwood is well worth a trip out to the suburbs for.
Just two miles from the city centre, you'll find a little Leeds suburb has attracted attention from national papers that's being dubbed one of the UK’s top 15 coolest neighbourhoods by The Telegraph and more recently included in the 30 things we love in the world of food right now from The Guardian.
What is truly becoming a foodie hotspot that's got city centre dwellers flocking to the suburbs for.
Whether you're looking for Neopolitian-style pizzas, small plates or craft beers with an ever-changing menu from some of the city's favourite pop-ups, you're in for a true feast.
One of our favourite spots right now is Boot and Rally on Stonegate Road. Having previously been home to 'one of the best roasts in the UK' from Braizin' Squad, the two-storey bar is cosy and inviting, balancing relaxed drinks with fine dining options - and it'll have you nestling down pint in hand, fork in the other for hours on end.
Stuzzi, served every Friday. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
Herencia, served every Sunday. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
Boot and Rally's menu currently highlights the best of three different chefs across four nights of the week.
Wednesdays are curry and quiz nights with Shoti Khoulii (Small Bowls) by Kangs on offer. Previous menu highlights have included Chicken tikka loaded fries, lamb curry, paneer mince and pan fried Bhindi (okra), amongst other Punjabi-inspired small plates.
Thursdays are bringing a brand-new Filipino-inspired menu from Herencia, a dining experience from ex-Dijon Boys chef, Nicko Lachica. Expect small plates, dim sum and skewers aplenty to round off the (almost) end of the week. Make sure to pop back on Sundays for another taste of Nicko's signature flavours (more on that later)...
Friday brings award-winning Italian Stuzzi over to North Leeds, with five tempting choices every Friday night.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
They're giving the people what they want: the opportunity to eat authentic Italian treats like pasta and arancini from an award-winning restaurant, but without the faff of dressing up and lots more beer options, all in the comfort of the local.
Every Friday 5-9pm you can head over to Meanwood for a craft beer inside the cosy little bar and a side of Stuzzi's award-winning dishes served in a street food style.
Pick and choose from arancini, fries double loaded with crushed Stuzzi beef and mortadella meatballs topped with mozzarella or opt for Stuzzi's signature pasta with combinations like cotechino Italian sausage and 'nduja ragu flavoured with rosemary and white wine, cooked slowly in chicken stock and san marzano tomatoes - it's so moreish you'll be ordering seconds (and thirds).
The menu changes each week to allow the bar pop-up to taste test new flavours, and last week lightly spiced, deep fried courgettes and chickpeas were added to the menu with a roasted red pepper argo dolce dip - it's the perfect light treat to add to your order.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Finally, that brings us to Sunday.
A staple in anyone in God's Own County's calendar for those fluffy Yorkshire puds and big bowls of gravy.
Inspired by his family and Filipino heritage, Nicko’s Sunday roast is far from your average roasties and Yorkshire combo. Expect exciting new flavours, tender meats and a flaky pastry veggie option with seasonal sides that’ll have you gobbling up your five a day.
We’ve been missing seeing Dijon Boys' roasts in Meanwood and around the city, but this new concept from Chef Nicko has brought back fab favourites like potato terrine and glazed carrots, and combined it with a whole new flavour palette, adding a Horeradish Bechemel Cigar and brand new protein options- it’s a must-try as far as we’re concerned.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The menu is based around the four big plates, with the choice of 12 Hour Braised Short Rib Pares; Lechon Porchetta Roast Dinner with lemongrass, ginger, garlic and herbs; Kalabasa Wellington or Lamb Neck and Longganisa Porchetta; all served with
Sideswise, you're simply spoilt for choice. Expect Mash and Pigs In Blankets alongside a seriously cheesy Cauliflower and Stilton Gratin and brussel sprouts in smoked garlic butter.
And if all that isn't enough, grab yourself a generous portion of Sticky Toffee Pudding for dessert.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Everything on the menu can be paired with a craft beer or glass of wine - these guys champion all sorts of independent breweries and constantly change their lines to showcase the best of local beer - so no matter whether you're looking for a classic lager or Session IPA like us, there's ample opportunity to work your way through the lines and find a new favourite.
But that's not all, Boot and Rally is continuing to bring Leeds' favourite pop-ups to the suburbs with a host of events throughout the seasons. Previously we've seen The Cheesy Living Co's 'Fondue On Tour' and five course ‘One night in Seville’ taster menu and Nicole's Norty Nibbles who brought 'a twist on a classic British bank holiday BBQ' for the Coronation weekend earlier this year.
The Cheesy Living Co. is coming to Boot and Rally at the end of the month.
Braizin' Squad also took residency at Boot and Rally bar last year. / Images: The Hoot Leeds
To check out Boot and Rally bar for yourself, visit Stonegate Road, Meanwood, LS6 4HZ and find the latest announcements for pop-up dinners on the Boot and Rally's Instagram page.
Feature Image - The Hoot Leeds
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Legally Blonde at Leeds Grand Theatre – a powerful portrayal drenched in pink | Review
Nearly twenty years on, Legally Blonde still reminds audiences never to underestimate themselves.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about a musical that embraces joy without irony, and the 2026 touring production of Legally Blonde at the Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House does exactly that.
This sparkling revival captures all the charm, humour, and heart that has made the show a modern musical theatre favourite, proving that Elle Woods' story has lost none of its appeal.
Adapted from the beloved 2001 film, Legally Blonde remains far more than a fluffy feel-good comedy. Nearly twenty years after its Broadway debut, its themes of self-worth, perseverance and refusing to be underestimated continue to resonate, making the show's message feel as relevant as ever.
Image: Supplied
From the opening strains of 'Omigod You Guys!', the production establishes an infectious energy that rarely lets up.
Much of its success lies in Leah Hill's exhilarating choreography, which is packed with vitality and executed with astonishing precision. The ensemble attacks every routine with unwavering commitment, and the athletic feat that is 'Whipped Into Shape' proves a particular highlight. I will forever question how nobody appears remotely out of breath in this number.
Images: Supplied
At the centre of it all is Amber Davies, who proves herself perfectly suited to the role of Elle Woods. Effortlessly capturing the character's optimism and determination, Davies delivers a performance that goes far beyond the familiar blonde stereotype.
She brings warmth, vulnerability and impeccable comic timing to the role, ensuring that Elle's transformation from heartbroken sorority president to accomplished law student feels both authentic and genuinely moving.
Image: Supplied
Vocally, Davies is superb. She tackles the demanding score with apparent ease, bringing emotional depth to the title number whilst delivering a thrilling rendition of 'So Much Better'. Her natural comic playfulness shines throughout, making both performer and character utterly irresistible.
Equally memorable is Karen Mavundukure's delightful turn as Paulette Bonafonté. Bringing warmth and comic flair in abundance, she proves herself as one of the evening's standout performers. Her heartfelt rendition of 'Ireland' beautifully captures the character's hopes and insecurities, while her scenes with Kyle provide some of the night's biggest laughs.
What makes Legally Blonde so enduring is its sincerity. Rather than making Elle Woods the punchline, the show celebrates kindness, female friendship and self-belief. In a world often quick to judge, there is something deeply appealing about a story that wears its optimism so proudly.
Legally Blonde is running until 13 June at Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House and you can grab your tickets here.
Five of the best new openings in Leeds recently – from ice bath cafes to listening bars
Clementine Hall
It's been a brilliant couple of months for new openings in Leeds.
We don't know about you, but we think our city is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment.
There's been a flurry of new spots opening up, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Domo
Tower works, 2 Globe Rd, Holbeck, LS11 5QG
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Introducing Domo, an independent restaurant born in Sheffield that is loved by many for its delicious food, inviting atmosphere and stellar service.
Run by Raffaele Busceddu and Sarah May Elliott, Domo serves a range of traditional Sardinian specialities that aren't often seen outside the island, all made entirely in-house.
Located right on the water's edge, we've got a feeling this is going to be our go-to spot this summer for long lunches fuelled by spritzes.
Also born in Sheffield, this one's for the matcha lovers and we know there's a lot of you. Think iced banana bread matcha, superfood smoothies and refreshing acai bowls served in a super cool setting.
Kontrast
84-86 Railway Street, Saxton Gardens, LS9 8HB
Images: The Hoot Leeds
After already making a big name for themselves over in Manchester, Kontrast has brought its popular sauna and ice bath cafe concept over to Leeds. Located under the railway arches, Kontrast features two traditional saunas, one infrared sauna, and four ice baths, each varying in temperature between three and 13 degrees. It's the perfect space to enjoy solo or with a group of like-minded wellness-loving people.
Scott and his partner have opened the coolest, 70's inspired record bar that is full of his massive record collection alongside a carefully curated cocktail menu with a twist. With the best view of Sunny Bank Mills, Pardon Me is just the most chilled out place to watch the world go by whilst sipping on a coffee or a glass of wine whilst hearing everything from hip hop and soul to deep house, and disco. We loved our visit and we know you will too.
We all know and bloody love Silver's Deli over in Bramley, but now they’ve branched out to Farsley and opened the wonderful their very own bakery which is already a sell-out.
The all-new neighbourhood bakehouse is slinging out the likes of homemade focaccia, buttermilk brownies, sausage rolls, cookies, tiramisu and, of course, the ever-so-famous sandos but this time in homemade, fluffy focaccia.
Sophie Smith -
7th November 2023 
