Dough Club, a Manchester-based Detroit-style pizzeria, is planning to open up in Leeds.
It's safe to say that we've already got plenty of pizza shops here in Leeds...but, one more can't hurt can it?
Especially when it looks as good as this one.
Dough Club is a Detroit-style pizza restaurant famed for their chewy, thick, cheesy crusts that are loaded with all the toppings imaginable.
Images: The Manc Group
Describing themselves on their website, Dough Club say: "Welcome to Dough Club, where flavor meets affordability in every slice. At Dough Club, we believe that everyone deserves a delicious, high-quality pizza experience without breaking the bank.
"Whether you're craving just a slice or a full pan, we've got you covered with our signature Detroit-style pizza."
They've got three locations over in Manchester, and now they have set their sights on Leeds. I mean, can you blame them?
Images: The Manc Group
Dough Club submitted a planning application to Leeds City Council last last month, proposing to convert a massage clinic on Burley Road into a takeaway.
The supporting documents read: “The site is currently used as a Thai Massage shop, which is still in operation, however looking to relocate.
“The proposed development would change the existing use by allowing it to be used as a hot food take-away, using a franchise model offered by an expanding company called Dough Club.”
It continued: "The proposed use is welcome a professional expanding national franchise brand looking for new locations throughout the country.
“The applicant is an experienced operator in this field, already operating other food related businesses and wishes to bring this brand to a local area in Leeds where demand for this type of service is high.”
The planning application is now open for comments and will be until Tuesday 23 September, and you can have your say here.
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 -
9th September 2025 
