Food critic Jay Rayner headed to Leeds for his latest restaurant review for The Financial Times, with his sights set on Horsforth's finest - Bavette Bistro.
Since opening last year, Bavette Bistro nestled in the leafy suburb of Horsforth has made waves across the country for its sheer brilliance.
The Good Food Guide crowned Bavette the best local restaurant of 2024, and Michelin recently awarded them a well deserved Bib Gourmand - so it's safe to say it's not just us who think it's really something special.
So it was only a matter of time til national critic Jay Rayner popped his head in, and his latest review in The Financial Times is nothing short of glowing.
The review praises the food as 'big, fat French classics, executed with vigour and a kind of precision that is so carefully disguised it just looks like the application of seriously good taste'.
Rayner showers head chef Sandy Jarvis in compliments and rightly so: "He approaches everything with finely calibrated largesse".
"It is all delightful; a glowing, middle-class Parisian Bistro Paul Bert fantasy of French bourgeois life made real, to be lubricated by the country's more idiosyncratic wines".
Very high praise indeed.
Aside from the food, the review touches on Bavette's excellent service and atmosphere: "Service is charming, because effortless charm is the currency here. In July, the Good Food Guide will announce the winners of its latest local restaurant awards, to be measured against the national standard by Bavette.
"Not that the diners here, leaning in over their plates, elbows on the table, seem to care. They're just enjoying the special occasion of everyday."
It's a review only restaurants can dream of, and we can't think of a more deserving team - congratulations Bavette.
If you haven't visited Bavette yet, then book your table here.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Clementine Hall
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Clementine Hall -
2nd June 2025 
