Voted for by kebab lovers nationwide, Leeds' one and only Sqew has taken the coveted prize.
Following over 160,000 votes being cast, Deliveroo has revealed the winners of its 2025 Restaurant Awards, which celebrate the best and most loved local restaurants across the UK and Ireland.
Leeds came up trumps taking home four prizes, but although we may be a little bit biased - there's one which we're particularly happy about.
Winning a completely new category titled the ‘Luke Littler x Deliveroo Best Kebab Award’, Sqew took home the trophy for its incredible and authentic shawarma.
Fronted by the UK darts champion himself, which saw a shortlist of ten Littler-approved restaurants go head to head in a public vote to crown the nation’s best kebab spot, Sqew Shawarma Bar secured he title after gaining backing from local fans in just two weeks.
To be honest, we can't say we're surprised.
Day in, day out you'll see queues of hungry punters lining up outside Sqew leading them to actually sell out of shawarma - why? Because it's absolutely class.
Mitch Renshaw, Owner of Sqew Shawarma Bar, commented on the win: “To win the first-ever Luke Littler x Deliveroo Kebab Award is unbelievable! We’re still pinching ourselves. To know that so many of our loyal Lioners have voted for us to win means so much, especially after being personally approved by Luke Littler himself.
"It is an incredible feeling and a real testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team who make and serve our freshly made Kebabs to the local community with love, every day. This golden shish trophy will take pride of place in our shop – it’s a massive honour!”
Jimi Famurewa, food critic and Deliveroo restaurant awards judge, said: “It’s an honour to be a returning judge for Deliveroo’s UK & Ireland restaurant awards, and I was blown away by the passion and talent on display at the Independent Restaurant of the Year cook-off."
Congratulations Sqew, this award is absolutely deserved and we'll see you soon for an award-winning kebab.
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 -
28th May 2025 
