A company is actually looking to hire someone to test out different drive-thrus across the UK.
And even though it may sound like it, we promise you it isn't too good to be true.
There's been some pretty decent side hustles knocking about recently, hasn't there? But we have to say that, for foodie fans, this must be up there with one of the best gigs there is.
That's because, whether you can believe it or not, Auto Trader is offering one lucky person the chance to get paid to eat and rate their favourite drive-thru takeouts.
With global web searches said to be up +100% year-on-year for "get food smell out of car", it seems motorists are juggling their love of drive-thru meals with a desire to keep their car’s interior pristine and smelling fresh - which is why the automotive platform is now looking for a researcher to find out which dishes make the least-amount of mess and smell in our cars.
This company will pay you pay you £300 to 'eat and rate' drive-thrus in Leeds / Credit: Flickr | Starbucks UK
The company's leasing experts need someone to sample drive-thrus so they can create the ultimate ranking for the best and worst takeout foods to eat in your car.
The successful 'Drive-Thru Reviewer' will be tasked with exploring and ranking five drive-thru meals within their local area.
Not only that, but their mission goes beyond tasting, as the lucky applicant will also need to evaluate everything from the quality of the packaging of the takeout, to how messy the food is, and how long the scent lingers in their car after that final delicious bite.
All your meals and fuel will be covered as you take on this exciting food journey / Credit: Jonathan Cooper (via Unsplash)
The best bit? They'll even get paid £300 to cover the costs of meals and fuel, as they take on this exciting food journey.
If you reckon you're up to the task, then all you'll need to do to apply to become Auto Trader’s 'Drive-Thru Reviewer' is hold a full UK driving license, be 18 years of age or over, and have access to a car that can be used to visit the drive-thrus.
Drivers can apply by heading over to the online form on the AutoTrader website here, and enter your details before the deadline on Sunday 14 July 2024.
Featured Image - Wikipedia Commons
Eats
‘This recognition belongs to you’ – Leeds restaurant added to the Michelin Guide just months after opening
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Emily Sergeant -
24th June 2024 
