A bubble gun, creamy cocktails in pastel pink hues and some of the city's friendliest bartenders: this is an experience not to be missed.
Newly-opened cocktail bar Pastel has quickly made a name for itself serving up unique cocktails- and now you and your friends can learn how to make their signature drinks for yourself.
Learn how to make raspberry and regular mojitos, an alternative version of an Aperol Spritz and Pastel's signature Pastel fizz in a one-hour cocktail masterclass at this dreamy pastel-coloured haven in Kirkgate.
Having only been open one month, Pastel have taken Leeds by storm and is quickly becoming one of our favourite places to grab a drink. Their cocktails are unique and innovate, whilst their decor transports us to the tropics in an instant.
The masterminds behind Pastel are now offering a 'Cocktail Making Experience' so you can get in on the action. For just £30 a head, enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival and learn how to make a classic cocktail of your choice followed by their iconic Pastel Fizz and Goodtime Spritz.
The package is available to book for a minimum of four people, with a maximum capacity of eight per sitting, and can take place on any day of the week before 6.00pm.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Here at the Hoot, we sampled the experience and created our own versions of Pastel's signature drinks- and can confirm that the experience is not one to be missed.
There were giggles aplenty as we learn about the importance of 'slapping' mint (it brings out the flavour) and the fascinated history of the bartender's favourite spirit: Bandarra Al Fresco.
Not only are the staff super friendly and fun, the drinks are delicious and unlike any we have tried before.
Their signature Pastel Fizz particularly was an absolute showstopper; a delectable concoction of Bacardi Raspberry, raspberry liqueur, fresh lime juice with cream, egg white, soda, all topped with ‘Pastel Dust’ that gives it a frothy appearance.
The Goodtime Spritz is the perfect drink for a summer's day and definitely lives up to its name. Similar to an Aperol spritz, the tall drink consists of Bandarra Al Fresco, Grapefruit Bitters, Artisan Yuzu Tonic and Prosecco.
This one is even served up with a side of bubbles courtesy of a nifty handheld bubble machine, this is usually done by the bartender but upon request, you might get to have a go yourself- it's a lot of fun.
The Pastel Fizz cocktail. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
If you're looking for something a bit different to do than just your average night out, then this experience is the one for you.
We can guarantee you'll come for the class but stay for the fantastic service, delicious drinks and good vibes.
To find out more, visit the Pastel website or give the cocktail bar a ring on 0113 2439 548.
Feature Image- The Hoot Leeds
News
A huge football fan zone with space for up to 1,000 fans has opened in Leeds
Trinity Leeds is transforming Trinity Kitchen into the ultimate space to watch all the World Cup 2026 action together.
Looking for somewhere to cheer on England in the 2026 World Cup? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered.
Foodie hotspot Trinity Kitchen has been completely transformed into the ultimate fan zone with space for up to 1,000 cheering fans.
And they’ve made sure that nobody misses out on the action.
There are three super-sized 5x3m screens dotted around the space, so wherever you go you won’t miss out on a goal.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
There’s also a brand-new bar courtesy of local favourites Northern Monk named the ‘Northern Monk Trinity Tap’.
The tap will feature two, seven-metre bars with a whopping 20 beer taps to keep you refreshed and hydrated during the tournament, because cheering the lads on really can be thirsty work.
If you don’t fancy a beer there’s also cocktails, wine and soft drinks on offer as well - so nobody has to miss out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Feeling peckish? Of course there’s 11 street food vendors serving match day meals and snacks to keep you fuelled through the games.
Choose from Caribbean jerk chicken from Jerk Junction, Indian street food from Rolawala and loads more.
Entry is completely free but if you’re after a reserved seat on a table, tickets cost just £10.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Josie Towning, Food and Beverage Manager at Trinity Leeds, said: “Trinity Kitchen will operate as normal during the day, transforming into a football fan zone in the evening.
“It will be one of the biggest World Cup venues in Leeds with three huge screens showing the games live and more dotted around Trinity Kitchen. There will be live roaming brass bands and DJs turning every England fixture into a true celebration.
“Fans can turn up and grab a space for free and we will also be offering table bookings for England games for those who want to guarantee the best spots to watch the drama unfold.
“Our line-up of street food vendors will serve bold flavours from around the world, while the all-new Northern Monk Trinity Tap will pour award-winning craft beers across 20 taps, making Trinity Kitchen the ultimate place to eat, drink and experience every unforgettable World Cup moment."
It’s all kicking off on Wednesday 17 June for England v Croatia. So rally your mates together, get your England shirts on and grab your tickets here.
Featured image - The Hoot Leeds
News
Dishoom announces official opening date for new Leeds restaurant
Clementine Hall
It's the moment we've all been waiting for, Dishoom is coming to Leeds.
The whispers of Dishoom's arrival in Leeds city centre have been going on for a while now, but over the past few weeks it has started to feel very real.
Taking over the beautiful old Flannel's site on the coveted Vicar Lane, signs started to pop up for Dishoom and work was cracking on fast.
Well now, we have an opening date - and we don't have long to wait.
Dishoom Leeds will open on Monday 3 August, with guests being able to enjoy 50% off food during an initial soft-opening period, ahead of the official opening on Friday 14 August.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
As with every Dishoom café, the Leeds restaurant begins with a story. This one takes inspiration from the extraordinary true events surrounding the explosion of the SS Fort Stikine in Bombay Dock in April 1944, a wartime disaster that sent gold bars flying across the city.
Legend has it that some of the missing gold was never recovered. Some was discovered embedded in walls and rooftops across Bombay. Other pieces quietly disappeared into the hands of lucky citizens, melted into bangles or hidden away in drawers.
Dishoom Leeds reimagines the fortune made from the gold bars and guests will discover subtle references to the glamorous mid-century details through the interiors and artwork, giving playful nods to Bombay’s golden age.
With all day dining available, guests can dine on the beloved breakfast right through to late evening feasting, with the café will serve a lovingly curated menu of Bombay comfort food inspired by the city’s cafés, grills, street stalls and family kitchens.
Shamil Thakrar, co-founder, also known as Head Babu, at Dishoom, said: “Leeds is a city with tremendous warmth, creativity and character, full of people who know the value of gathering together over good food and drinks. Bringing Dishoom here has long been a dream for us.”
"The story behind this café is rooted in one of Bombay’s most extraordinary moments – the day gold bars fell from the sky after the explosion of Fort Stikine in 1944. Amidst the tragedy and chaos, there were also tales of unexpected fortune, human resilience and hopeful reinvention. We were captivated by this, and we cannot wait to welcome Leeds into the café that pays homage to the heritage of Bombay.”
Clementine Hall -
15th April 2022 
