North Star Coffee have only gone and done it again.
Yes we're basic. Yes we love brunch. Are we going to apologise for it? No.
There's just something special about strutting out the door on a Saturday morning and recklessly combining two meals into one that gets us feeling absolutely crazy.
So you can only imagine how feral we felt when everyone's favourite brunch spot, North Star Coffee Shop, announced a new menu.
Spoiler alert, it was mayhem.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
North Star is Leeds institution at this point, if you're a fan of coffee then you know that whatever these guys touch turns into gold.
And this menu is no exception.
The crispy duck pancake with sticky plum hoisin sauce was a standout dish, topped with a runny fried egg that was cooked to utter perfection.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The pimped up beans on toast with crispy bacon and Calabrian chilli made Heinz beans look inedible, and of course the house pancakes which we urge you to order as dessert were deliciously decadent.
And if that wasn't enough, the North Star Brunch Fries sprinkled with their signature stardust seasoning were probably some of the best potatoes we've had the pleasure of eating. That seasoning must be laced with something.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Obviously you're not going to North Star without having a beverage or two, and their fresh juices are perfect for blowing away the cobwebs whilst their coffee is always exceptional. But you already knew that.
The staff are uber friendly, the space is light and airy and the vibes are just immaculate. You'll be set up for the day good and proper in no time.
So whatever plans you have this weekend, scrap them and get yourself down to The Docks to sample this new menu. We'll probably see you there.
An independent açai bowl pop-up is opening a permanent cafe in Leeds city centre.
It seems the açai bowl trend isn't over just yet, and we're absolutely not mad about it.
The aesthetically purple frozen treat isn't just delicious, but is also known to have numerous health benefits making it guilt-free and the perfect post-workout pick me up.
You may remember Açai Social Club that opened as a pop-up in the Victoria Quarter last year, and now they're moving into a permanent spot in the city centre.
Run by a lovely husband and wife duo who have spent the last 15 months exploring cafes around the world, it's safe to say they know exactly what they're talking about.
Their açai is made with the very best ingredients, topped with the freshest fruit and sprinkled with their homemade granola - it doesn't get much better then that does it?
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, they said: "Açai Social Club is getting a home. Our very first store is officially on the way! We’ve been working behind the scenes to create a space that’s more about than just açai.
"What started as an idea is finally becoming something you can walk into…There’s still a lot we’re keeping under wraps for now, but we’re so excited to finally share the beginning of what’s to come.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you in. Your new neighbourhood social club, coming soon."
The exact location of the cafe and its opening date is still under wraps, but we'll of course keep you updated as and when we find out.
The Leeds Supper Club bringing people together over incredible food
Clementine Hall
What started as a simple idea around food has grown into something much bigger for Leeds Supper Club.
The idea was born from a love of food and the idea that eating together can be about much more than what’s on your plate.
Rather than simply going out to a restaurant, Leeds Supper Club puts connection at the heart of its events, bringing people together to share incredible food and enjoy an evening in good company.
We had the pleasure of attending their most recent event where we had the most wonderful evening with founders Lizzie, Phillip and the rest of the club.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This instalment was a very special one, as it was in collaboration with Knotfield Vine over in Horsforth.
I mean, it really doesn't get more scenic than this - we really felt like we'd been whisked away to the South of France rather than a Leeds suburb. But we wouldn't want it either way.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
What makes it a cut above the rest is the details. Every little detail has been thought out, from the low-lit, sexy lighting, hand-made name plates, live music and four courses of wonderful seasonal goodness made fresh.
From enjoying a glass of wine within the vines alongside a couple of nibbles to tucking into a three course meal around a candle-lit table, there's really nowhere else like it.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The tagliatelle pasta with beef and whipped feta was a real highlight, and knowing Lizzie and Philip receive help on the menu and the cooking from all their friends made it taste that much sweeter.
By the end of it we'd had some delicious food, fabulous wine and shared even better conversation. And it's safe to say we left feeling a part of the club.
Keep an eye on their Instagram page here for all upcoming events.
Clementine Hall -
25th October 2024 
