As we welcome in the New Year we may be looking forward to experiencing new things - and for foodies that means new restaurants.
But when we say new, we mean restaurants that some of us may have never visited before, despite receiving plenty of praise from diners who have had the pleasure of enjoying a meal at them.
We have a guide to the most popular restaurants across Leeds that you need to visit in 2026 - and what diners had to say about their experience.
The restaurants included come from OpenTable’s ‘Diner’s Choice’ list, updated in December 2025.
1. The Ivy, Victoria Quarter
The Ivy, Victoria Quarter has a 4.7* rating from 10,912 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “Had a New Year's Day brunch which was excellent and good value for money. The service was fantastic and the food and drinks were lovely. I would highly recommend this restaurant." | James Hardisty
2. The Ivy Asia, Victoria Quarter
The Ivy Asia, Victoria Quarter has a 4.7* rating from 3,182 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “Wonderful service and ambience as usual. Definitely my favourite my venue in Leeds. 5 stars to everyone, with special thanks to the bar staff for some of the best cocktails available in Leeds. All in a superb New Year celebration evening.” | Simon Hulme
3. The Cut & Craft, King Edward Street
The Cut & Craft in King Edward Street has a 4.6* rating from 2,779 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “What a fabulous NYE celebrating at Cut and Craft. The whole team were fantastic and couldn’t do more for us and the food was lovely. Thank you so much for making a couple of tired parents big night out special.” | Google-The Cut & Craft, King Edward Street
4. Bill’s Restaurant & Bar, Albion Place
Bill’s Restaurant & Bar in Albion Place has a 4.3* rating from 1,330 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “Bill's is an excellent restaurant with very friendly and efficient staff and a good choice of food at sensible prices!” | Google Maps Photo: Google Street View
5. The Restaurant Bar & Grill, City Square
The Restaurant Bar & Grill in City Square has a 4.7* rating from 487 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “What a fabulous experience, staff amazing, the food was gorgeous. What we really enjoyed and appreciated was that the ‘front of house gentleman’ listened to what we were celebrating and made it even more special. Thank you.” | Google-The Restaurant Bar & Grill, City Square
6. Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Park Row
Riva Blu in Park Row has a 4.6* rating from 396 reviews. An OpenTable reviewer said: “This is a quality Italian restaurant. An ever changing menu offering great dishes to suit everybody's tastes. The service offered by the staff at the restaurant is second to none . Very friendly and helpful, nothing is too much . This is my go to place in Leeds.” | Google-Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar