And to celebrate, they're giving away free burritos for a whole year.
Top rated Mexican burrito bar, Boojum, is bringing its super fresh, high-quality, 'live out loud food' to Leeds Merrion Centre this April.
This will be the brand's first mainland UK venue, after establishing themselves as a cult brand on the island of Ireland.
From what started as one Belfast store back in 2007 to 15 today, Boojum is known for its delicious, fresh food at an affordable price point.
Image: Supplied
But despite having only 15 stores, Boojum was recently recognised as having the 6th most trending dish on Deliveroo globally (number 1 in Mexican) and already has nearly 150,000 followers on social media.
Boojum's menu features burritos, bowls, nachos, tacos, chips and salsas which is all made fresh in store every day.
“Quality and value are at the heart of Boojum. We work hard to ensure every burrito, in every store, is made to the same high standard every day. To do great things you have to love what you do. And we love what we do,” said Rob Powell, Head of Operations.
Image: Supplied
The new opening in Leeds Merrion Centre will create 40 new jobs.
“People are at the heart of Boojum. Team members are encouraged to be genuine and express themselves – it’s what gives the Boojum brand a personality. We're not afraid to be different, offering a unique personality in a market often focused on functionality. This really resonates with our core student customers” said Head of Marketing, Paul McCullagh.
David Maxwell, CEO of Boojum said: “Our goal is to spread the Boojum experience across the UK, bringing our unique blend of flavour and personality to 25 new stores over the next 5 years. Selecting Leeds for our first mainland store is no coincidence. The city's bustling student life and reputation as a foodie paradise make it the perfect stage for us. We're not just serving food; we're creating experiences and we're excited to blend our Belfast roots with the dynamic spirit of Leeds."
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."
Clementine Hall -
30th January 2024 
