Ramen at the ready Leeds, because Fuji Hiro is reopening its doors.
It's a good day for foodies as one of the city's most-loved independent restaurants is reopening its doors under new management.
And trust us, you're going to love it.
Fuji Hiro, Leeds' original Japanese restaurant and somewhat of an institution, originally opened on Wade Lane in 1997 and amassed a cult following for nearly three decades thanks to its no-nonsense authentic Japanese cooking.
Sadly, earlier this year the previous owners announced it was closing which was met with widespread disappointment from locals.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
But now, Fuji Hiro is making a triumphant return under new management, with Leeds-born entrepreneur James Douglas at the helm.
The restaurant at the Merrion Centre boasts a fresh look and a refined menu including slurp-worthy ramen and sizzling noodles to crispy gyoza and crunchy katsu.
Fuji Hiro owner, James Douglas, said: “We’re hugely excited to finally open the doors an bring Fuji Hiro back to life. This relaunch is all about honouring Fuji Hiro’s legacy while welcoming a new generation of diners to discover what’s made it so special for so many years.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
“We can’t wait welcome back all the Fuji fans and introduce newcomers to the incredible tastes and aromas of its authentic Japanese cuisine.”
Charles Newman, associate director at Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), owners of the Merrion Centre, added: “We’re incredibly excited to see Fuji Hiro reopen its doors. It’s a much-missed gem in Leeds’ food scene and its return brings a real buzz to the Merrion Centre. We know loyal fans will be first in line.”
The frozen yoghurt craze is on its way to Leeds as Kefiyo is set to open in Headingley in just a few days.
It's a phenomenon that has caught the attention of the TikTok and Instagram girlies as of late, with frozen yoghurt bars popping up in Manchester and going viral online.
The ice cold sweet treat is supposedly 'healthy' and with a slogan of 'eat Clean. feel Light. live Better.' - this new spot in Leeds seems to be going down that route too.
Kefiyo will be opening in the old Sixes site on Ash Road in Headingley, and they've just announced that they'll be soft launching this Sunday 19 April 2026.
The space is already sporting a super cute pastel green and pink exterior, and it's exactly matching the aesthetic that you'd expect with froyo.
Kefiyo will offer a range of frozen yoghurt flavours with a whole bunch of toppings for you to customise to your tastebuds, as well as fresh acai bowls.
Situated slap bang in the centre of Headingley, we've got a feeling it'll be very busy with students on their way to their morning lecture or at night for those looking for a sweet treat that doesn't feel too naughty.
We'll keep you updated on more Kefiyo updates as and when we find out.
But in the meantime, you can keep an eye on their socials here. We'll see you soon for a scoop Leeds.
Cult favourite burger chain Burgerism is officially coming to Leeds this summer
Clementine Hall
An award-winning burger chain is coming to one of Leeds' suburbs.
If you don't know Burgerism, then get to know.
The Manchester-based burger chain is known by many for its incredible smash patties and quick, reliable service.
Their concept is simple: good burgers made with quality ingredients and cooked fresh to order. Delicious.
And it's not just burgers, they've also got some great wings and fries available too with a range of homemade sauces on offer for dunking, drizzling and devouring. We're a particular fan of the buffalo wings with their garlic ranch dip.
The chain used to have a dark kitchen on the outskirts of the city where people could order via Deliveroo, however this closed down and since then there's been a Burgerism-shaped hole left in our foodie scene.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Burgerism recently applied to move into a vacant shop unit in Meanwood at 605 Meanwood Road, seeking change-of-use planning permission for the former Papa Johns site which was previously only allowed to serve...well, pizzas.
And the plans have now been approved, which means Burgerism will officially be coming to Leeds. Hurray!
Burgerism's new takeaway will be walking distance from the The Meanwood Tavern, perfect for those looking for some post-pint burgers.
It will be strictly takeaway with no dine-in option available.
The brand-new Burgerism will employ 15 people from the local area with food being served between 11am and 11pm.
We'll keep you up to date as and when we find out more, but for now we're aware that Burgerism Leeds is set to open this summer.
Clementine Hall -
9th July 2025 
