This leafy suburb has far more to it than meet the eye.
Just ten minutes away from Leeds city centre lies Meanwood, a bustling leafy suburb full of fantastic independent shops, bars and restaurants.
Fancy a trip out of Leeds this weekend? Here are our top picks of what to see, where to eat and where to go in the up-and-coming town of Meanwood.
Terminus Tap Room & Bottle Shop
Established in 2017 by brothers Baz and Graeme Philips, The Terminus Taproom otherwise known as The Meanwood Brewery, offers customers the finest craft beers, wine and cocktails from the best local producers and beyond.
Pop in and try one of their own hoppy creations which take inspiration from different styles and flavours from around the world. Or try one of their fabulous, salted caramel espresso martinis which are two for £10 during their happy hour at 3-6pm on Monday to Friday.
Stonegate Rd, Meanwood.
Number 8 Cocktail Bar
Previously located over in Manchester at the independent urban village Hatch, Number 8 Bar has made quite a name for itself with its fun takes on classic cocktails.
The building certainly isn’t hard to miss with a multicoloured, floral mural painted on the outside. Inside you are met with trendy, industrial inspired interior with cosy leather sofas to nestle down in. Enjoy any of the classic cocktails which are perfectly executed or sample one from their ever changing, seasonal menu items to spice up your Friday night.
10-14 Stonegate Rd, Meanwood.
Tandem Gallery and Shop
Tandem opened in 2017 by owners Hannah and Hetty who created the shop of their dreams with their shared passion for homeware.
The store is a beautiful space and is full of gifts, homeware, plants and much more. Locally sourced artists’ work line the carefully curated shelves and there is also a refill station where you can fill up on all your kitchen and cleaning essentials. Their in-house coffee shop makes it a relaxing, creative hub for everyone to enjoy any, including your dog.
574 Meanwood Road, Meanwood, Leeds.
Humbl Coffee
From an up-cycled horse trailer to a coffee shop, Humbl is the UK’s first battery powered mobile coffee shop with a lockdown success story that started off, and continues to be, an entirely self-funded small business. Their location around Meanwood varies but you can track them down by following their socials or visiting their website.
Owners and coffee enthusiasts, Matt and Georgia, are now hoping to give the suburb that has taken in Humbl for the past twelve months, a permanent home in the form of a coffee shop. Having just received the keys for their brand-new digs, watch this space to find out about their upcoming opening.
Opening soon, Meanwood.
Zucco
This small-plate, Italian restaurant is one of Meanwood’s longest standing independent businesses. Their menu changes according to the seasons and always uses fresh, quality ingredients.
Think chargrilled octopus with saffron potatoes or braised beef pappardelle with gran padano cheese. The menu has lots of options so there is definitely something for everyone to indulge in and enjoy. The restaurant has a lovely, light and family friendly atmosphere where the staff are bound to make you feel right at home.
603 Meanwood Rd, Meanwood, Leeds.
Alfred
Slap bang in the middle of Meanwood, minutes from Meanwood Park, Alfred is the perfect local hang out for fans of great beer, wine and spirits. An extension of the beloved Leeds favourite, North Brewing Co. Alfred is home to knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to take you through their huge range of drinks.
Stop by after a walk round the park for a well-deserved beer surrounded by stylish decor with a 1950’s twist.
6 Stonegate Rd, Meanwood.
Meanwood Park
Take a stroll around this beautiful park which includes woodland, meadows, a flowing stream and stretches of mown grass. Not only is there a gorgeous nature trail to discover, there’s a children’s play area and two public tennis courts which are free to play on throughout the year.
There’s a cafe serving hot and cold refreshments to keep you going and the park is doggy friendly making it the perfect place for a family day out.
Hana Matsuri
This intimate, Japanese restaurant is widely acclaimed and holds a well earned place on the Michelin Guide. Seating only 7 guests, chef Kaoru Nakamura serves up an Omakase tasting menu of authentic, fresh sushi made from good quality, imported seafood.
Japanese memorabilia and sake line the walls of the restaurant making you feel as though you’re in the heart of Tokyo, in Leeds. The price point isn’t cheap, however it is the place to go to celebrate a very special occasion and is certain to be a night to remember.
580 Meanwood Road, Meanwood.
Myrtle Tavern
This pub was crowned pub of the year in the British Pub Awards 2021, so, if you’re in Meanwood, you should definitely check it out. Stop by for a cosy Sunday Roast or bask in the sunshine with a cold pint in their extensive garden and sun terrace.
If you don’t fancy a full Sunday roast then why not sample some of their tapas dishes, including southern fried popcorn chicken and wild mushroom arancini balls. They also have a menu solely dedicated to gin, featuring lots of fantastic local gins from Leeds and the surrounding areas.
Parkside Road, Meanwood.
Culto
Culto is an authentic Italian kitchen and takeout based on Stainbeck Road. Their aim is to showcase how fantastic Italian cuisine can be by using only the best ingredients delivered directly from Italy. There is a relaxed dining area where you can enjoy their delights or you can take the food away to enjoy at home, all at an affordable price.
Whether it’s a toasted panini sandwich made with homemade focaccia that you fancy or a creamy burrata and tomato salad to enjoy alongside a cold glass of Italian white wine. If it’s something sweet you’re after then why not make a pit stop at Poco, their sister cafe on Kirkstall Road, who serve homemade Sicilian cannolis filled with fresh cream.
97 Steinbeck Rd, Meanwood.
Read More: The best things to do in Meanwood this weekend
Feature Image- Flickr, John Seb
