I visited this Leeds wine bar that's been serving up relaxed drinks on Park Row for 12 years

Situated on the busy Park Row, The Decanter offers a welcome pocket of calm on a weekday night - a contrast to the rowdy Wetherspoon across the street and the live music spilling out of The Bootlegger next door.

It’s the kind of bar you go to when you want to take the pace down a notch.

First opened in the spring of 2014, this long‑standing wine bar leans into mood and comfort rather than spectacle.

Dark wood panel effect on the walls and Tiffany‑style lamps glowing softly from overhead gives the space an urban feel that never feels too pretentious. It’s stylish without trying too hard.

There’s no shortage of seating either. A row of stools lines a wall‑mounted bar for busier nights, while a mix of two‑tops and larger tables fills the back half of the room.

Even when the after‑work crowd filters in on a busier night, finding a spot won’t be too difficult here.

At the well‑stocked bar, there’s plenty to choose from. Beer drinkers will find the regulars: international heavy‑hitters like Birra Moretti alongside locally brewed favourites such as Northern Monk’s A Little Faith.

It’s not the cheapest place in town, so most pints will land around £6.90.

It’s with its wine selection that The Decanter really shines, however. Primarily a wine bar after all, there’s enough variety across colours, styles and regions to keep you busy for months. The menu is clearly laid out, with helpful tasting notes for anyone who doesn’t consider themselves a wine expert.

We try a medium glass of Cleme Recas Pinot Grigio, which costs £8.80 – a clean, refreshing white from Romania with subtle hints of pear. It’s an easy drinker and a perfect after‑work tipple. The attentive bartenders help us quickly to our drinks, and we’re seated within moments.

For those who want to explore further, The Decanter offers wine tastings for individuals and groups, alongside a charcuterie and nibbles menu that suits the slower pace of the venue.

As someone who doesn’t claim to know very much about wine, The Decanter’s detailed menu makes it an accessible spot for a relaxed glass after work or to round off the night.

With live music on Sundays and a laid‑back feel the rest of the week, I can see myself back here soon, scanning the wine list for the perfect glass.

Factfile

• Address: 17 Park Row, Leeds LS1 5JQ
• Telephone: -
• Opening hours: Mon, Closed, Tue-Wed, 4pm-10pm, Thurs, 4pm-11pm, Fri 2pm-12am, Saturday, 12pm-12am, Sun, 2pm-10pm.
• Website: thedecanter.co.uk

Scores

• Drinks: 8/10
• Value: 6/10
• Atmosphere: 8/10
• Service: 8/10