It's been an absolutely belting year for new openings in Sheffield, and we're only just getting started.
We don't know about you guys, but we think Sheffield is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment. And trust us, that's a lot.
We've had some cracking spots arrive in the city so far this year, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out pretty pronto.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Maria
4 Wellington St, Sheffield, S1 4HD
Images: The Sheff
The talented team behind Bench and The Pearl opened up this beautiful restaurant in the city centre back in March, and it'll come as no surprise to you that it's absolutely class.
Maria, located on Wellington Street in the new heart of the city development, is a homage to owner Ronnie's grandmother and a nod to his southern Italian heritage. It's a space unlike anything in the city, a small but perfectly-formed space complete with counter dining where you can watch the magic happen.
They're cooking up Sicilian-inspired dishes made using Yorkshire produce, like the tortellini in brodo with Yorkshire ham from Swaledale Butchers in Skipton.
Manchester’s beloved bakery, Gooey, has opened a gorgeous kiosk inside Meadowhall and we’re utterly obsessed.
They’ve brought their thick cookies, pillowy doughnuts and fabulous drink creations (hello French toast matcha) to Sheffield and it’s the perfect mid-shopping fuel.
Memory Dance
21 Chapel Walk, S1 2PD
Images: The Sheff
There’s a brand-new space that’s just opened on Chapel Walk, celebrating Sheffield in a truly unique way. From vinyl records and exhibitions to immersive cinematic experiences, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the city’s rich creative heritage.
JD Sports
Meadowhall, S9 1EP
Images: The Sheff
High street sportswear and footwear giant JD Sports has officially unveiled its brand-new superstore at Meadowhall, and it’s safe to say they’ve pulled out all the stops.
Packed with the latest trainers, streetwear, and all your favourite clothing brands under one roof, this new store is a must-visit if you’re planning your next shopping spree.
Organisers of the Leeds Christmas Market have announced it will host two new bars for 2026.
Yes, we know it's only October...but is it too soon to be getting excited about Christmas? We think not.
The Leeds Christmas Markets are going to look a little bit different this year, as the owners of Thor's Tipi will be running the festivities at City Square for 2026.
Completely new for this year, the market on City Square will introduce two bars with different themes - a Scottish Highland Lodge and a Folie Ski Bar.
Image: Supplied
Firstly, the Highland Lodge will welcome visitors into a spacious tipi filled with snug seating, twinkling lights, roaring fires and plenty of tartan.
Designed to welcome large groups, the lodge will have space for 280 guests inside and a further 100 outside, whilst the drinks menu will feature Highland favourites including Scottish beers and ales, a selection of whisky and even Iron-Bru.
Over at the Folie Ski Bar on Quebec Street, expect a relaxed festive retreat with the feel of an alpine chalet, complete with rustic wood detailing, fairy lights, faux fur throws and roaring fires.
The bar can accommodate 180 guests inside and 50 outside, serving mulled wine, boozy hot chocolates, Kirkstall Brewery beers and a selection of low and no-alcohol drinks.
Image: Supplied
THORS’s director, Amanda Monaghan said: “We’re excited to bring two new bar experiences to Leeds Christmas market this year. Having hosted THOR’s tipi in the city for many years, we’ve had plenty of practice creating festive spaces and entertainment, so we know what customers love.
“We’ve listened to lots of feedback on what people would like to see at the market and we want to make sure we give visitors and residents of Leeds plenty of reasons to stay with us long after they’ve finished their shopping or a day at the office.
“The new venues have been created to cater for all ages and tastes and will be perfect for passing visitors, after work drinks or planned Christmas get-togethers. From the lively Scottish spirit of Highland Lodge to the cosy alpine atmosphere at Folie, there’s going to be a spot for everyone to settle in and enjoy drinks by the fire and plenty of festive fun.”
Beloved Leeds Malaysian cafe known for its authentic home cooking announces sudden closure
Clementine Hall
A much-loved independent restaurant in Leeds has announced it will be closing its doors.
Kuala Lumpur Cafe opened its doors in Headingley in 2019 by Bart and Hirman, who wanted to bring authentic Malaysian cooking to the city of Leeds.
Throughout the years, they'd built up a reputation for their beautiful curries and vibrant street food dishes, all of which were made using Hirman's family recipes.
So much so, that in 2024 they opened a kitchen inside White Cloth Hall in the city centre when the Grade II listed food hall first opened.
Their kitchen sadly closed a year later, but their Headingley restaurant remained open serving the students and locals with their famous beef rendang, nasi lemak and more.
Sadly, Kuala Lumpur Cafe have taken to social media to announce that they will be closing their doors for good as of this Saturday 17 October.
Their statement reads: "Thank you to all our customers and team that made Kuala Lumpur Cafe possible across the last few years. After a long consideration, we have decided that our last trading day will be Saturday 17 October.
"If you have a booking after this date, we'll be calling you over the next few days to try to move it to an earlier date before we close.
"It's been our pleasure to serve Malaysian food to the community. Best regards, KL Cafe."
Of course, in true Leeds fashion, local businesses and customers flocked to the comments to express their sadness and show their support.
One comment reads: "Such a shame. This was genuinely the best Malay food I had outside of Malaysia. Will be missed greatly", whilst another thanks the cafe for "all the delicious food over the years".
If you want to visit Kuala Lumpur Cafe one last time, then you have until this Saturday to do so. Go and wish them a proper farewell.
Clementine Hall -
13th August 2026 
