Masterchef contestant Matt Healey has opened a new Leeds restaurant, bringing 'Michelin-star' service to diners in Horsforth.
"Or come with friends for a selection of supreme small plates, Yorkshire meats, cheeses and an outstanding selection of fine wines from around the world."
It opened its doors at The Forde on Town Street this week on Tuesday 7 December 2021 - however, there is currently no menu available on the website.
Still, by reputation alone, we expect it is worth a visit. Healey, after all, has made quite a mark on the Leeds food scene with his ‘food to swear by’ brand.
inside The Forde ahead of its opening this Tuesday / Image: The Forde
His previous restaurant, Matt Healy X The Foundry, earned itself a place in the Good Food Guide and a 2020 Michelin Plate.
Praised by The Guardian food critic Jay Rayner with the utterance of "Bloody hell, that’s good” over the steak tartare, (only he didn't say "bloody" or "hell"), you can't get a much higher endorsement than that.
Of course, that was during a visit to the Foundry in 2019 - but, by the looks of things, there are a number of dish similarities over in Horsforth to keep existing fans happy.
Image: The Forde
A message on The Forde's website says: "Matt has had the pleasure of working alongside some of the hospitality industry’s finest, some of whom will form part of the Forde team; bringing Michelin star service to Horsforth.
"Come alone and bring your laptop, where you can work alongside us using our free WiFi. We will make sure you're kept topped up with outstanding breakfast and superb coffee.
"Come with family for a spot of lunch and some afternoon cocktails.
The new eatery, housed in the same north Leeds suburb where the chef grew up, is bringing top-tier dishes and high-end service to guests with a menu offering everything from breakfast and brunch to Yorkshire Charcuterie, small plates, local cheese and fine wines.
Opening hours are 8am to 4pm daily. Find out more by visiting the website here.
One of Leeds' most loved late-night bars has announced it will be moving on from its current location after more than a decade.
Known for its eclectic party atmosphere, fabulous cocktails and fun DJs, Wax has long been a go-to spot for Leeds night owls looking for a big night.
The New Briggate bar has built up a loyal following over the years, becoming something of an institution on the city’s nightlife scene.
And now, Wax has announced that it will be moving location, bringing an end to an era at its current home at the top of town.
Image: Wax Bar
Taking to Instagram, Wax shared the news with its loyal customers, stating: “Wax is moving!!!
"Thats right folks, our time on New Briggate is coming to an end. For 15 years many a drink we have drunk, many a dance we have shared, many a hangover we have nursed.... so let’s keep that going in our new home.
"Don't worry you can get your OG Wax fix for the next few months. More info announced soon. See you around. X"
Of course, in classic Leeds fashion, customers flocked to the comments to express their support.
One person said: "So many memories, will forever have a very special place in my heart" whilst another expressed that "Change is good! Long live Wax Bar."
We'll keep you updated with where Wax is moving to as and when we find out, but we're sure its loyal fans will follow them wherever they go.
For now, it’s business as usual at New Briggate - so if you’ve got memories to make (or simply want one last night in the OG Wax), you’ve still got a few months to do so.
Major Leeds Festival artist cancels string of dates after losing voice
Daisy Jackson
Rising rock star Violet Grohl has addressed fans after cancelling a series of sold-out gigs just hours before fans entered the venue.
The singer (who, yes, is the daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl) had been set to perform to a packed-out crowd at Band On The Wall in Manchester last night.
But just hours before doors opened, Violet announced that the show would be postponed, along with tonight’s show in Glasgow.
She said in a statement that she was ‘really f**king bummed’ to be cancelling the shows.
Violet told fans that the gigs had to be cancelled because she ‘doesn’t have a voice right now’.
She is due to perform on The Canopy stage at Leeds Festival this Friday, and its sister site Reading Festival on Sunday.
The star added ‘it pains me to make this decision’ as she officially postponed her Manchester show.
Those who had tickets will receive updated information soon, with the plan to reschedule them.
She wrote: “hey everyone. really f**king bummed to have to let yall know i’m canceling tonight and tomorrow’s shows in Manchester and Glasgow.
“i don’t have a voice right now and it pains me to make this decision, but i just can’t perform.
“we’re rescheduling these shows and everyone who bought a ticket will receive the updated info. looking forward to seeing you soon xx i’ll be back!!!”
Violet Grohl released her debut album, Be Sweet To Me, back in May, produced at the home of acclaimed producer Justin Raisen.
Her music takes influence from late 80s and early 90s rock, including Pixies, Soundgarden, Bjork, PJ Harvey, and more.
When she announced her UK tour dates, demand was so overwhelming her Manchester show was upgraded from The Deaf Institute to Band On The Wall.
Georgina Pellant -
8th December 2021 
