From speakeasys to literally the most exceptional drinks selections known to man, drinking in the city of Leeds has changed, and its amazing.
So here is everything you need to know to explore the underground, hidden little gems that are scattered around this wonderous city.
A well-known Leeds institution, Mojo is highly recommended staple of your Leeds night out. We like to start off with a ‘Negroni’ as we do love a good aperitive to start the night.
On a nice night, why not sit outside on the pedestrianised space on Merrion Street, where you can enjoy the last of the sunshine over cocktails in Leeds.
Next up, is our ultimate gastronomic haunt. But before we get to the food, let us introduce you to the secret bar, hidden above the pasta room in Leeds Grand Arcade. Yep, that’s right folks, the secret little bar right above Stuzzi is the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks. We’re partial to a glass of fizz, and their prosecco really is the bee’s knees!
Then onto the food… Purveyors of incredible Italian street food, is Stuzzi. Infamous for their original Harrogate restaurant, the Stuzzi guys have opened in Leeds with a menu that will ensure you have a well-lined stomach.
From their drinks list – we would recommend pairing your meal with one of their carefully selected fine Italian wines. There will most certainly be something that tickles your fancy.
An decadent, yet humble abode, where the detail and thinking behind this secret Leeds bar, has delivered a unique and quirky hidey hole, suitable for wiling away the hours with good friends, and exceptional drinks.
With a gin selection boasting over 50+ popular and hard to find delicacies, hand picked for your pleasure, gin lovers cannot go wrong. What’s more, they produce their own spirit range, from the house gin Tailors – a citrus based London Dry, with a hint of Bergamot, leaving a slight earl grey note to finish, to their infused collection, there is no gin shortage in here.
Not a gin fan? Fear not, they have a cocktail menu offering staples such as the Espresso Martinis, Old Fashioned and Vodka Martini, to eccentric twists such as the Mangotini and the French 75. Plus beers, wines, top shelf spirit selection and more.
There’s also props a plenty if you want to get on the gram, and Insta your night, capturing the moments that make your nights memorable.
The ordering system is pretty novel to – with ‘Ring For Gin’ bells, helping to alert the team to table service, both inside the Leeds speakeasy, and outside in their new botanical gin garden.
Live music and phenomenal drinks – hidden underneath Lords Barbers, is where Leeds jazz club, the Domino resides.
Showcasing a wealth of both local and international talent, featuring bands from across the globe, the line-up is definitely one to watch. But book ahead as these guys sell-out quick.
Now, what to drink? Depending on how closely you’ve been following our drinks selection so far, will depend on how you feel right about now. But for us, we’d go for an old fashioned, boy are they good.
Just one last tipple before the night is over? Oh go on then! Well, there really is no competition when it comes to that final drink of the night. And these guys will make you one to remember.
With a library (literally – they have a ladder to their bar) of spirits, and garnishes that will blow your mind, these exceptional bartenders will serve you one of their creations that are not just Instagram-worthy, they will leave you wanting more.
Our recommendation here? ‘Gatos Locos’ – They had as at pistachio coated apple crisp.
Now this is just five of our favourites, but we do have oh so many more. Keep an eye on our blog for regular updates on the best bars in Leeds, and the best of Leeds nightlife, we have so much to offer in the heart of Yorkshire.
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