The much loved restaurant is set to close its doors at the end of the month.
The Owl opened back in 2019 inside Kirkgate Market, as a hidden gastro pub that captured the hearts and attention on a national level before moving to Mustard Wharf in 2022.
But now, sadly, The Owl has announced it will be closing its doors at the end of the month and that a "new chapter is on its way".
In a statement posted on their website, they said it would shut following the departure of head chef Mark Owens.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The statement read: "We've loved every minute of the past five years, and now it's time to make space for something new. At the end of this month, The Owl will be closing its doors.
"Mark Owens, who’s been leading our kitchen serving some of the best food in the city is off to an exciting new opportunity—and with that change, chef Liz Cottam has decided it’s time for a fresh new chapter for our beautiful dockside space. We’ll be revealing more about what’s next very soon!
"From our early days in Kirkgate Market, to delivering dine-at-home boxes during lockdown, to sunny lunches by the water—thank you for being part of the journey. We've loved every minute of the past five years, and now it's time to make space for something new.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Of course, we’d love for you to join us over the next few weeks to celebrate, reminisce, and raise a glass to the happy memories."
Of course we're gutted to see The Owl as we know and love it today close, but we're excited to see what comes next from the fabulous team behind it.
But for now, show them some love and visit The Owl before it flies away (sorry, cheesy we know).
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Clementine Hall -
10th April 2025 
