New Leeds TV show focused on local foodies launches today

A new Leeds TV-style show focused on local foodies launches today.

Brought to the city by Chapter 81 and Welcome to Leeds, It’s being created as a part of Leeds’ Digital Food Week – running from Monday 10th May-Sunday 16th May.

With the Prime Minister expected to confirm the new easing of restrictions for Step 3 of the roadmap in a press conference this evening, the timing couldn’t be better for the platform launch – which will be putting the focus firmly on some of Leeds’ hospitality greats.

Chef and owner of Holy Mountain Kitchen Harry Johns is set to make an appearance as a channel host, chatting to local street food traders and heading out into the suburbs to highlight some of the best finds outside of the city centre.

Meanwhile, local broadcast journalist Beth Parson will head out into town – learning to cook with some of Leeds’ best chefs as she visits the likes of Sarto, Rola Wala, Ox Club, Manjit’s Kitchen and Harvey Nichols.

A range of other events will be taking place throughout the week, including lunchtime chats chats ranging from Leeds’ incredible coffee, beer and cocktail culture to the subject of mental health and the recovery of the sector as a whole.

Some of Leeds’ best-known breweries will be taking part, with Northern Monk, North Brew Co and Anthology set to host guided tasting sessions.

There will also be some fun show-and-tells from city favourites Doh Hut, Big Guys Thicc Sauce, Laynes Espresso, Swine That Dines and Spice and Green.

Journalists Johnny I’Anso and Larry Budd are also involved in the project. They’ll be telling stories from the Leeds’ food and drink scene to get people excited about going out again, leading up to the planned reopening of indoor hospitality on 17th May.

Each show will end with some of Leeds’ newest musical talent recommended by Music: Leeds.

Speaking about Digital Food Week, founder of Chapter 81, Simon Fogal, said:

“There are so many businesses large and small out there that have taken a huge hit over the past year and we want to shine a light on them and get the people of Leeds excited about going out in the city and helping to kick start their local economy once more.

“We’ll be looking at all elements of the hospitality sector – food and drink, but also advice for anyone wanting to start a hospitality business. With so many businesses taking part in various different ways, the week is set to be one of the biggest collaboration festivals ever.”

Further guests confirmed to appear include chefs Liz Cottam, Rob Hallas and Ben Davy, indie favourites Leeds Beer Tours and Domino Club, the Nationwide Caterers Association, Andrew Cooper (Chief Executive at LeedsBID), Becci Erbillur-Gray (City Centre Project Manager at Leeds City Council), and Escapism Bar Group founder Phil Harrison.

Where to Watch?

People wishing to get involved can register their interest on the website and book a slot.

Every event will be free to watch and available on Welcome to Leeds YouTube channel.