Kirkstall Brewery and Little Bao Boy announce new Leeds pub the City Taproom opening this week

Leeds brewery Kirkstall Brewery has announced a new city centre pub, opening this week in partnership with street food kitchen Little Bao Boy.

Located on Sovereign Street, just a short walk from Leeds railway station, the City Taproom will open on Thursday, April 23. The venue has been given a fresh look that blends familiar Kirkstall vibes with a modern bar style and a pub-like atmosphere.

Taking its name from the famous but long-gone Leeds pub The City - which once stood where the Dortmund Drinker now operates - the City Taproom is described by Kirkstall Brewery founder Steve Holt as a “reimagining of a traditional city-centre pub”.

“We’re delighted to unveil a new look for the Taproom on Sovereign Street,” he said. “The City Taproom celebrates Leeds and its rich pub and brewing heritage.

“We hope it will become a popular addition to the amazing and diverse venues that make Leeds such a vibrant city for hospitality and entertainment.”

With an impressive line-up of 16 taps, the City Taproom will offer Kirkstall Brewery classics such as Virtuous, Judicious and Kirkstall Pilsner, alongside permanent pours of Veltins, Double Diamond and Guinness.

The pub will also feature two new cask lines: one serving Kirkstall staple Three Swords, and the other rotating, starting with Golden Hour. The rotating selection will include breweries such as Five Points, Boundary, Vault City and Harveys.

Food at the venue will be provided by long-time Kirkstall collaborators Little Bao Boy. Founder James Ooi said: “We’ve been part of this venue since day one - through COVID, outdoor seating and new ownership - and we’re so excited for this refurbishment.

“On the food side, expect more collaborations, faster service and a better overall customer experience. We’re extremely grateful Kirkstall saw the value in this refurb and can’t wait to reopen.”

The City Taproom opens at the former North Taproom on Sovereign Street on Thursday, April 23.