Leeds' first Tequila Festival is set to arrive in Leeds next month.
On the eve of Friday 22 July 2022, one of Leeds' favourite cultural arts spaces will be transformed into a tequila-infused haven, with an appearance from Tequila Ocho, the world’s first Single Estate tequila, amongst other exciting household names.
Fans of the Leeds Whisky Festival or Rum Fest from Rolling Social Events will be delighted to see another boozy day of takeovers across the city.
Leeds Tequila Festival will be launching its debut event in July. / Image: Supplied
Next month, The Tetley will play host to ambassadors, makers and creators from numerous renowned Tequila distilleries, including the likes of Monin Syrups, Tequila Ocho, Patron, Arette and Fortaleza.
The one-evening-only event will showcase over 50 agave products, including tequila, mezcal and other exciting Mexican spirits whilst The Tetley's fully-stocked bar will allow those looking to up their cocktail game with a splash of tequila to find their new favourite mix.
If that's not enough, Call Lane's favourite Mexican watering hole, Neon Cactus will be showing everything why they are known as the go-to spot for Margaritas, all by serving up their their perfect pair of tacos, including veggie and vegan alternatives.
Neon Cactus will be serving up tacos all night long. / Image: Supplied
Clare Morrow, Ocho Brand Manager says:“We are so excited to be sponsoring Leeds’ first Tequila festival. There has been huge growth in interest and consumer knowledge in agave products over the past couple of years, and there’s never been a more exciting time to share what makes Tequila and Ocho so special. Leeds Tequila Festival will be a great opportunity to share Ocho with people neat, but also showcase its versatility in cocktails, where the authentic agave flavour shines through.”
Lee Jones, Rolling Social Events says: “We’ve done rum, we’ve done whisky, we’ve done gin…tequila was the next logical step! Whether you have just discovered the world of agave or simply enjoy a delicious margarita, there will be something for all levels of interest at our first ever Leeds Tequila Festival at The Tetley this July.”
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.
Sophie Smith -
24th June 2022 
