Amidst the businesses we’ve lost and stories of hardship, we’ve celebrated dozens of fantastic new openings across the city in 2025.
From neighbourhood cafes expanding into the city centre and an independent bakery launching its biggest venture yet, to two Leeds pub giants collaborating to lovingly restore a historic boozer, these new restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars have all got us talking this year.
Here are 25 of the most exciting new openings of 2025 - that have changed our city’s food and drink scene for the better.
1. Kerala Canteen
One of the first new openings of 2025, this south Indian restaurant opened in St Peter’s Street, near to the BBC Yorkshire building, in January. Award-winning chef Bobby Geetha is behind the venture, which blends tradition with innovation - a tempting menu of small plates encourages diners to mix and match dishes in a tapas-style. | Mark Bass
2. Arusuvai
Chef Raj Chinnadurai, who has run successful restaurants across the world, brought his new concept Arusuvai to Kirkstall in January. He opened the new venue in the space formerly occupied by Gallery FortyOne on Commercial Road, and it "takes customers on a journey through Tamil food." | Jonathan Gawthorpe
3. The Swine Bistro
This award-winning restaurant opened a new site in Headingley in February - after smashing a crowdfunding campaign to fund the move to a bigger venue. The Swine Bistro doubled its covers and continues to offer a seasonal menu of bistro dishes using local produce. Pictured are Angus Evans, sous chef, Jo Myers, co-owner and Stu Myers, executive chef. | Supplied
4. Azotea
Perched at the top of the sparkling new five-star Hyatt Hotel on Sovereign Square, this restaurant and bar opened in March. Boasting sweeping views over Leeds, mouth-watering dishes, and an innovative cocktail list, it offers a bold and adventurous menu spotlighting the punchy flavours associated with Latin America. | Simon Hulme
5. Melting Point
Melting Point, which is the creation of chef-turned-ice-cream-maker Johno Storey, opened on the ground floor of the Corn Exchange in the spring. The ice cream shop offers exciting flavour combinations including goat’s cheese and ginger, malted milk, and peanut butter and coconut. | Yorkshire Evening Post
6. Uyare
The much-anticipated second venture from long-standing Leeds restaurant Tharavadu finally opened its doors in the spring, and has wowed the city with its breathtaking views, meticulous plating, perfectly balanced dishes and effortlessly charming service. Located on the rooftop of Victoria Gate shopping centre, Uyare serves Keralan flavours and crafted cocktails. | Simon Hulme Photo: Simon Hulme