NQ64 is on the hunt for local gamers and cocktail enthusiasts to test their games and drinks ahead of their public launch.
If you’re a fan of all things gaming, then you’re going to be excited about this new opening.
NQ64 specialises in retro arcade games, fun cocktails and a fantastic late night atmosphere.
And before they open their doors to the public on Thursday 29 August, they need your help to test out the venue's new drinks and games - how class is that.
Images: The Manc Group
The dream role will gain you exclusive first access to the Leeds venue as well as invitations to all future NQ64 launches, and unlimited gaming across all their venues.
Recruitment is set to take place on Monday 26 and Tuesday 27 August at the Merrion Street venue, where over the two days 250 applicants will have free reign to try out retro arcade games and classic consoles from the 90s and 00s, including Mario Kart, Time Crisis, the dance mats and Point Blank.
Each day features a retro gaming competition, and the top leaderboard scorer across both days wins the job.
The successful applicant will enjoy unlimited games at all NQ64 venues across the country for the rest of the year as well as the opportunity to suggest new games for the Leeds venue.
Image: The Manc Group
Participants will also be able to review the delicious drinks on offer including specially selected beers from local brewers and game-themed signature cocktails such as the Kong Island Iced Tea and the Lemmingade.
"We take boozing and gaming seriously at NQ64, and genuinely need your help in testing our games and our new staff's bar skills," said NQ64 owner Matt Robson.
"The venue is shaping up nicely, with our decorators starting to transform the space. We think NQ64 will add something to Leeds' already stellar entertainment scene, and I personally can't wait for the launch party! If you want to help with game testing, check out our Instagram for more details."
To apply for a chance to become an NQ64 games tester, head to this link. Testers will be selected and invited to bring a guest to the testing day to enjoy a sneak peek of the arcade bar.
One of Leeds' most iconic brands is expanding with two city centre openings.
Coffee lovers, you're going to love this one.
North Star Coffee Roasters are one of the early pioneers of specialty coffee in the North of England and among the UK’s first B Corp-certified coffee roasters.
They've been keeping the people of Leeds awake since 2013, and you'll find their coffee across the country as well as at their current city centre locations.
One of their brand-new locations inside the Victoria Quarter will be opening next Monday 1 June.
Their new kiosk will be located outside Jo Malone London and marks the brand’s third site in Leeds.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
To celebrate the launch, North Star will be giving away 50 free coffees a day from Tuesday 2 June until Friday 5 June - a total of 200 free drinks across the opening week. Customers will be able to claim any coffee from the menu, with one free drink per person available on a first come, first served basis, each day.
Their other new site is expected to be on Great George Street, and we'll keep you updated with any news on that one as and when we know more.
Speaking about the opening, Holly Kragiopoulos, Co-founder of North Star, said: “Opening a third site in the centre of Leeds feels incredibly special for us. Leeds has always been at the heart of North Star, so being able to bring our coffee into Victoria Quarter is a huge milestone.
"We wanted to celebrate by giving something back to the city and welcoming both loyal regulars and new customers with free coffee throughout our opening week.”
Thor’s Tipi chosen as the new operator to create a ‘distinctly Yorkshire’ Leeds Christmas Market 2026
Clementine Hall
Leeds City Council has appointed Thor's tipi as the new operator of Leeds Christmas Market 2026 on City Square.
We hate to mention the C word in May... especially in the midst of a heatwave, but just bare with us on this one.
The beloved Leeds Christmas Market will have a new operator this year, as creators of pop-up seasonal bars Thor's Tipi have been given the responsibility by Leeds City Council.
So, what's going to be different?
Thor's tipi will create a ‘distinctly Yorkshire’ retail, craft and food market which celebrates Leeds identity.
Image: Supplied
The market will feature a Yorkshire based line-up, full of popular local names and Leeds street food legends and a series of cabins will also be reserved for local craft businesses and emerging artisans.
Alongside plenty of shopping and eating options, the Christmas Market will become a full-on-festive experience for visitors. There will be winter games and karaoke huts in an Alpine Lodge, the original THOR’S tipi - complete with its signature firepit seating area, free live music from local artists, school choirs & community performances throughout the season.
There will also be a host of family-friendly events, including a ‘Leeds Night Before Christmas’ trail, family raves and free craft tables.
Image: Supplied
Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi, said: "This is our eleventh year in Leeds and we’re super excited to bring the most beautiful Christmas Market to City Square! We’re especially looking forward to speaking with local traders about how we can showcase their talents. Get in touch if you’d like to be involved! We’d love to have you on-board.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council's executive member for economy, said: "We're delighted that Leeds will be welcoming a Christmas market again this year with a new look and that visitors will once again have the chance to experience the wonders of the festive season at the heart of the city centre.”
“As always, the council is committed to working with partners and providers to bring high quality and exciting events to the city. We know Christmas is always a special time in Leeds, and this year is set to be a memorable one."
Clementine Hall -
13th August 2024 
