Often the new year brings a quiet month for cafes and bars across the nation: the rush from Christmas is over, we’re all skint and the skies don’t exactly make it inviting to head out in the cold.
But now there’s a chance to swap Leeds rainy afternoons for a sun-soaked cruise across the Caribbean - if you’re lucky enough.
Local cafe-bar The Flamboyance is giving away just that.
Forming part of the prize for the weekly pub quiz, every Thursday night from 7pm, the local is testing punters against their general knowledge for the chance to win a Caribbean cruise.
And it won’t even cost you a penny to enter either.
The competition has been running over the past few months, but the final chance to enter will be at next week’s quiz on Thursday 18 January.
Each team gets on prize ticket regardless, but the better you do in the quiz, the better your chances are of winning. The winner each week gets five tickets, second place gets four, and third place gets three tickets.
The prize announcement quiz night will then take place on Thursday 25 January from 7pm.
There's no exact details on the cruise itself - but The Flamboyance has said "there are obviously terms and conditions but there is a real cruise ship in the Caribbean that will be welcoming our winners very soon"
Details on the cruise haven't been announced yet. / Image: Unsplash
Announcing the news that the prize draw will be taking place soon on Instagram with a cocktail in one hand, overlooking white sand beaches and crystal-clear seas, The Flamboyance said: “Wish you were here? One lucky quiz team winner will be going to some beaches just like this. There are TWO more quizzes at The Flamboyance for you to win our grand prize of a Caribbean Cruise! Tonight (Thursday 11th) at 7pm and next Thursday 18th January. DM us to reserve a table :)”
Naturally, due to the size of the giveaway, booking has been advised by The Flamboyance to avoid disappointment. Those wishing to enter this pub quiz should contact @theflamboyanceleeds on Instagram to reserve a table.
A small amount of walk ins will still be available on the night as well.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
Sophie Smith -
12th January 2024 
