'We’re constantly trying to improve': Leeds jazz venue The Domino Club named among world’s best cocktail bars

Leeds cocktail and jazz bar The Domino Club has been recognised by The Pinnacle Guide, a new global awards system being compared to the Michelin Guide for cocktail bars.

The hidden Grand Arcade venue has received a 1-PIN rating in the guide’s first-ever list, making it the only Leeds venue to be recognised.

The Pinnacle Guide described The Domino Club as “a Leeds cocktail bar hidden beneath a working barbershop, with live music every night and the feel of an underground New York jazz club”.

Anonymous reviewers for the guide praised the venue’s “live music, the lighting and the brilliant hidden entrance”.

Operations manager Tom Finnon said the recognition felt “really flattering” after years of work behind the scenes.

“It’s the way they judge it that makes it special,” he told the YEP. “From what I understand, it’s repeated mystery visits over a long period of time, so you’ve got to be doing things well consistently.”

Known for its speakeasy-style entrance through Lords Barbering in the Grand Arcade, The Domino Club hosts live jazz, soul, funk and blues music throughout the week alongside an extensive cocktail menu.

Finnon said the venue had always aimed to become known for both its atmosphere and drinks offering.

“We’ve always said we want to be a really, really good cocktail bar as well,” he said. “We all love drinks and we’re constantly trying to improve what we do.”

The Pinnacle Guide highlighted the bar’s focus on sustainability and accessibility, including vegan and gluten-free cocktails, reduced glass waste initiatives and “Pay As You Feel” live music nights.

The guide also praised the venue’s attention to detail, from leather-bound menus and bespoke scents to complimentary warm cocktails offered to guests queueing outside during winter.

Finnon said the recognition was especially meaningful given the strength of Leeds’ hospitality scene.

“There’s such camaraderie between operators in Leeds,” he said. “When another good bar opens, it just pushes everybody to get better.”

The award could also help support future expansion plans for the business, with Finnon confirming the company is currently working on a new venue concept.

“It’s nice that it’s not just us saying we think we’re good,” he added. “It’s recognition from multiple judges over a long period of time.”