Liz Cottam’s Owl set to expand with move to new riverside location with outdoor terrace
Michelin-Guide starring, award-winning chef Liz Cottam is known across Leeds for her incredible menus, quality service and her recent appearance on The Great British Menu has only amplified her talents to a widespread audience.
Whilst Owl is well-known as one of Leeds’ finest eateries, hidden inside Leeds historic markets for two years, the gastro pub is now set to move to a new location within the city centre.
Currently residing in the former site of founder Liz Cottam’s other venture HOME on Kirkgate on a temporary basis, Owl is preparing for a new chapter. From next month, the restaurant will set up shop in a brand new riverside location at Leeds’ Mustard Wharf development.
From Friday 27 May, the new Owl restaurant will open at Lockside: a picturesque riverside development looking over the canal. Conveniently located just moments from Leeds train station, the new spot has been designed to reflect the traditional heritage of Leeds with the new, modern development of the city’s South Bank.
Read More: Inside the Michelin-recommended pub in Leeds’ Kirkgate market
The new restaurant will be roughly twice the size of its previous market home, including an outdoor terrace, allowing more opportunity for diners to enjoy Owl’s outstanding menu which has received incredible reviews from customers and critics alike since it first opened its doors in 2019.
Led by head chef Mark Owens, Owl has recently launched its spring menus which feature an eclectic mix of traditional British staples and an array of unique tasting courses and experiences, all of which are expected to remain on the menu.
Local produce is of particular importance here, with picks such as North Sea cod, aged Yorkshire duck terrine and Yorkshire rhubarb sitting across the dinner, lunch, bar and Sunday menus.
The decision to move Owl from its original location was made after the team decided that they were outgrowing the market and that the space was not fit for their ambitious visions for the restaurant.
Where HOME, Liz Cottam’s first restaurant, has already settled nicely away from Kirkgate and into its new home in Leeds’ Brewery Place, Owl’s journey to its new location has been long-awaited and highly anticipated.
Speaking about the move to Riverside, owner Elizabeth Cottam said: “We can’t wait to move into Owl’s new forever home. We’ve been working really hard to find the right spot for Owl and we’re delighted to say that we’ve found it. To be part of the exciting new Mustard Wharf development is an honour, it’s such a great new asset for Leeds and you can feel a real buzz in the air.
“Expect lots of light, picturesque views, and even some outdoor space! We’ve found the perfect spot to guzzle down some oysters and champagne on those sunny days and cosy evenings, al fresco style! All whilst gazing at the wonderful city skyline, right on the water’s edge on our terrace.”
As one final celebratory hurrah for Owl at Kirkgate, the restaurant will be hosting one of their special Wine & Dine events on Thursday 5 May 2022.
Six courses made up of British seasonal ingredients and flavours will be paired with wine and stories. Expect bread, snacks, oysters, charcuterie and an unforgettable evening, priced at £100 per person.
After this, Owl’s last service at Kirkgate will be on Saturday 21 May before reopening at Mustard Wharf on Saturday 28 May.
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