The renovation plan promised a ‘bigger, and better, luxurious offering’ to the City Square eatery - and it delivered that and more.
Restaurant Bar & Grill has undergone a whopping £2m refurbishment this summer, and the results are astonishing.
Honey onyx marble, olive-green leather banquettes and deep walnut panelling - just stepping inside the newly refurbished restaurant located in the bustling City Square immediately transports you to New York’s affluent upper east side.
Located in the historic Old Post Office building opposite Leeds train station, the new Restaurant Bar & Grill is the perfect spot for a lunch date, post-work drinks or slap up evening meal.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Customers can expect innovative cocktails, phenomenal service and an amazing array of food which is perfect for any time of day. Brunch, lunch or dinner - the menu caters for all and every occasion.
Once sat, don’t forget to look up at the spectacular ornate ceiling decorated with grand chandeliers - it truly is a sight to behold.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Famous for their steaks, RBG has prioritised its focus on ageing, sourcing, and cutting its steaks to perfection. Also boasting a great array of fish and vegetarian options, this really is the perfect spot for large groups to get together in one of their comfy booths and find something for everyone to enjoy.
We sampled the Ribeye steak which was cooked to perfection, drenched in a silky smooth peppercorn sauce which also acted as the perfect dipping sauce for the ultimate chunky chips.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
The Halloumi Burger was a brilliant vegetarian option, served in a soft brioche bun with extra gooey cheese melted on top because why not?
The Black Miso Cod was utter perfection, a sticky sweet glaze coated buttery fish which flaked away effortlessly.
The cocktails are the perfect meal accompaniment, go for a summer spritz to feel refreshed or an expertly mixed espresso martini for that kickstart to the evening.
With a gorgeous Al Fresco dining area, make the most of the summer months and basque in the sunshine whilst enjoying RBG’s deluxe food and drink offering.
So what are you waiting for, head down to Restaurant Bar & Grill, marvel in its beauty and let their lovely staff take care of you for the evening - we promise you won’t regret it.
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 -
21st August 2023 
