A slice of tropical paradise is coming to Lower Briggatethis Friday.
Founded in 2019 and now one of the largest independent plant shops in the country, Nice Things has made a name for itself across the Pennines for providing the best plant shopping experience imaginable.
A haven of glorious tropical foliage overseen by delightful staff who really know their stuff, it’s become the go-to spot to get your sacred space kitted out with as much greenery as you desire.
Not only that, but the space is wrapped up in the prettiest pink aesthetic complete with adorable tiny trolleys and warm lighting – making your plant shopping experience feel more glamorous than ever.
Image: The Hoot LeedsImage: Nice Things
When we heard the news it was opening in our beloved city, we couldn't quite contain our excitement.
And now we really don't have long to wait, as Nice Things is officially opening its doors this Friday 19 July at 12pm.
But if you can't wait that long, then you can head down a day early to cheers to their new shop at their grand opening party that everyone is invited to.
Announcing the exciting news to Instagram, Nice Things said: "The finishing touches are all coming together and we are thrilled to say we’ll be opening with a launch party this Thursday, the 18th July!"
"You’ll be one of the first to see the brand new shop, plus grab a free beer from Leeds based brewery North Brew Co. and go home with a goodie bag! Oh, and of course, there’s an absolute tonne of incredible plants, pots & accessories to shop from!"
The new shop will be open 7 days a week for all your planting needs, and we're sure it's going to bloom beautifully in the city.
It’s fair to say we are very very excited indeed, and can’t wait to visit the tropical paradise and take home some plants that we will try to keep alive… we can’t make any promises though.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Clementine Hall -
17th July 2024 
