Danny Malin: My best Yorkshire meals of 2025
In his final column of the year, Danny Malin discusses his best meals of 2025
While sadly we’ve seen lots of closures in the hospitality business this year, it’s great to support the ones still thriving. I’ve been enjoying the best food in Yorkshire, and dare I say in the UK, this year.
My ultimate treat is to dine out with friends at Blue Sakura in Leeds city centre. All you can eat Japanese tapas served to the table.
A newly found gem of a restaurant however has been Kyoyu in Sheffield, inside Cambridge Street Collective. We went for a Korean fusion BBQ at the table as well as a range of fusion dishes such as sushi platters. Wow, perfect for meat lovers like me and vegans like my wife.
While I’ve cut down on greasy food this year I still love a chippy tea. I’ve always loved George a Green but I’d say Kingfisher in Wakefield is on a par. For £12.50 I had fish, chips, scampi and a drink. The batter was amazing, and it was a huge portion.
A kebab I could eat whatever the weather and it always tastes fresh and bang on is Sqew. They’ve even opened up in Manchester now.
When eating out with the family I always enjoy a Toby Carvery even for breakfast.
Last year even a children’s adventure playground shocked me when it came to the food. The food at William’s Den was amazing, particularly their stone baked pizza. This year I was wowed again when we visited Billy Bob’s diner in Skipton for my daughter’s 2nd birthday. I had Skillet Hash and Huevos Rancheros eggs.
I feel like a broken record but I’ve had some of my favourite lunches this year Cannon Hall Farm. I took my pal Kalani as he rated Guy Fawkes Inn in York as the best pie he’s had whereas I said Cannon Hall Farm. Both places do incredible steak and ale pies. Kalani and I however went over Christmas for their Sunday dinner in a giant Yorkshire. This was a winning dish for us both.
My wife and I also love going for a Chinese meal. Our favourite is Maxi’s in York. For Dim Sum we love Joy’s Kitchen in Leeds and Tattu.
I never thought I’d love a brunch but Wentworth Garden Centre is incredible as is Gino’s inside Marriot Leeds.