Be it served as part of a full English breakfast to mop up yolk, or as part of an artisanal bread-and-butter pudding,
Sourdough has become the loaf ‘du jour’ since people started to bake it themselves and create their own ‘starters’ during the pandemic.
While many of those domestic croûtes (French for crusts) have since been retired, Leeds’ appetite for "real bread" has only grown. Moving away from supermarket ‘sour-faux’, the city's independent bakers are leaning into heritage grains and slow-fermentation to produce world-class loaves.
From the historic halls of Kirkgate Market to the industrial charm of the docks, the local scene has remained resilient despite a challenging year for the high street.
So, if you’ve tried your hand at a sourdough starter and not had much luck, or are just looking for the ultimate sandwich in the near future, here are nine locations in Leeds highly rated for supplying the ‘perfect’ sourdough.
7. The Mill Kitchen
More than just a bakery, this Sunny Bank Mills staple is a full-scale kitchen and bakehouse. Their hand-crafted sourdough is the foundation of their legendary brunch menu. 🍞 Sunny Bank Mills, 83-85 Town St, Farsley, LS28 5UJ | The Mill Kitchen
8. Bluebird Bakery
Bringing the 'Real Bread' mission to the heart of the city. Their Seven-Seeder Sourdough is a masterclass in texture. 🍞 Unit 201-202, Kirkgate Market (1904 Hall), Leeds, LS2 7HY | Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. BAKE
Another heavyweight at the Dock. They’ve successfully blended 'nostalgic' bakes with serious artisan bread-making. 🍞 2 Little Neville St, Mustard Wharf, Leeds, LS1 4ED | Google