A bird's-eye view of Leeds, Sheffield, and Yorkshire
X
Eats
This Leeds craft beer store stock over 900 varieties after transforming corner shop
The Singh family once stocked three types of lager, along with newspapers and groceries, but their former corner store now stocks a haven of craft beers.
Transforming a former post office and off-licence into a craft beer specialists store with over 900 varieties availablehas put the Singh family business, Raynville Superstore, on the map in Leeds.
A single grumbling customer's comment was all it took for the Singh's family-run corner shop to transform from a traditional corner store to a craft beer specialist recognised across the UK.
Originally a post office, the store was transformed into a bog-standard corner store in 2008: think your standard off-licence with limited groceries, newspapers and Carling, Carlsberg and Stella as the only lager options.
The Singh family have owned Raynville Superstore building for over 50 years, passing the line of work down through generations.
It was Johnny Singh, whose grew up watching his parents working the store that decided to make a switch after a customer complained there were 'no decent beers'.
The business are always keen for feedback and this was an opportunity to dabble in something "more interesting" than the standard stock shipped into the store.
Since making the investment into craft beers in 2013, the Singh family have now depleted their other stock so that they can focus entirely on selling their speciality alcohol.
The store operates through online orders that can then be collected from the Armley store. / Image: Tom Joy
The store now has over 900 varieties available and compete in a completely new market but it is their online store is what has made them a success across the UK.
Customers recognise Raynville Superstore as a leader in providing high-quality stock for reasonably low prices and has led to deliveries across the country: from Aberdeen to Brighton.
During the first wave of the pandemic, the store switched to online-only orders and although customers can now collect their goods in person, the same method of ordering online has stayed.
The company believe that this is a more beneficial way for the company to run. Their success meant that customers were queuing for 10-15 minutes to pay upon their visit, so ordering in advance has helped to reduce wait times.
Staying local is still important to Raynville Superstore and the Singh family will happily collect beers for the 'older regulars' when they knock on the window.
It' not just customers that the family are attracting; Kirkstall Brewery, Northern Monk and North Brewing Company are all important to the craft beer store. The Singh's believe in supporting local breweries and value independent businesses that allow them to store such an eclectic variety of lagers.
Silver's Deli is opening up a sister shop, and this time it's about everything baked.
We all know and love Silver's Deli for their stacked subs and breakfast sandwiches that could cure any hangover no matter how severe.
They're so good, that they even bagged the coveted Uber Eats Restaurant of the Year Award last year.
And rightly so, because Silver's is absolutely class.
And it seems there's just no stopping Silver's, as they've just announced that they'll be opening a sister shop named Silver's Bakehouse serving up everything, yep you guessed it, baked.
It'll also be in Farsley where the original Silver's is, and they're labelling the new venture as 'your neighbourhood bake shop'.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Silver's Deli said: "Well it’s happening. I said no more shops, but it’s kinda necessary, and I just love all things baked.
"There’s waaaaaaaaay too many details to share on this right now, but go give our sister shop @silvers_bakehouse a new follow and hold on tight. This is gonna be fun as fuck."
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Customers can expect a wider range of Silver's goodies that they're unable to whip up in the current space. From soft amaretti biscuits and their famous cookies to sausage rolls and brownies that the team have been working on for 12 months.
We're in no doubt that this venture is going to be absolutely brilliant, and you best believe we'll be first in line to try one of those brownies.
Silver's Bakehouse will be located on Town Street in Farsley and is expected to open this May.
Inside the modern Japanese grill coming to Leeds from the team behind Fern Modern Sushi
Clementine Hall
We've been very excited about this one.
If you know anything about the Leeds food scene, then you'll know the absolute legend that is Chef Fern.
Her first restaurant, Fern Modern Sushi, is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Known for their expertly crafted sushi made with the freshest fish on offer.
And now, she's turning her attention to her second venture - Tori Nori.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Tori Nori is a modern Japanese grill and bar inspired by the bustling izakayas of Tokyo.
Everything is centred around the fiery robata grill where guests can watch the chefs cook everything from grilled fish to delicious yakitori skewers right in front of their very eyes.
All designed to share, this is a place to hang out with friends, enjoy some delicious food and maybe sink a few Japanese-inspired cocktails whilst you're at it.
Images: The Hoot leeds
Located on Vicar Lane, the space has had a whole refurb and it's looking fantastic. Complete with perfectly moody lighting, plush banquette seating and beautiful Japanese-inspired wallpaper.
The menu features an entire yakitori menu, from cheesy chicken thighs and pork belly to grilled king prawn and Japanese A5 wagyu all grilled over charcoal.
There's also Fern's signature sushi on the menu, as well as big plates to share such as teryaki half chickens and miso lamb chops.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
You just know that everything Fern touches turns to gold but don't just take our word for it, get yourself to Tori Nori and try it out for yourselves.
Tori Nori will officially open its doors on Friday 10 April. Find out more and book your table here.