Pardon Me Farsley review: I visited a Japan-inspired record bar in a vibrant pocket of Leeds
Our reviewer visited the new Japan-inspired record bar in the vibrant Leeds suburb of Farsley
Farsley is among the most vibrant pockets of Leeds and its beating heart is Sunny Bank Mills, a hive of culture and leisure that has the local community well and truly charmed.
Last year, The Sunday Times lauded it as one of the UK’s hottest postcodes and declared it was ‘full of cool dads’.
If you are a cool dad, or a cool person, or even just a person, you will be all over Pardon Me like a particularly peckish seagull on a portion of chips.
A record bar that draws inspiration from the Jazz kissa cafés of Japan, Pardon Me is the latest addition to Farsley’s drinking scene.
It would be inaccurate to describe the space as effortlessly cool, because it is clear great care has gone into cultivating such a stylish place. The walls are adorned with tasteful art as well as an absolute bucketload of records assembled neatly behind a well-stocked bar. They are not merely for show either, instead taking taking turns to spin on the turntables.
There is a vast array of wines and cocktails on offer, as well as coffees and mocktails for the non-drinkers. For those who like to stick to beer, there is Camden Hells Lager and Camden Eazy IPA on draught.
I visited on an uncomfortably sticky evening in the midst of a heatwave, finding refuge in the airy space. We took a seat in one of the booths, peering out of the huge windows across a sun-drenched courtyard.
After a day working in the sun, it was utterly blissful to sip a pint with a comfortable seat and a pleasant view. The Eazy IPA - a refreshing and easy-drinking pale ale with peachy notes - was a reasonable £5.90.
My partner went for an Aperol Spritz, which cost £10. I consider this particular drink to be an abomination, but she assured me it was incredibly well-made and well worth the tenner.
Pardon Me is run by a couple and they could not have been more accommodating. Farsley’s friendliness is what I love most about it and this new establishment fits perfectly in that regard.
It also strikes the perfect blend between class and accessibility. You would impress a date by bringing them along, but you would feel just as comfortable heading down for a post-work pint with your dog in tow.
Pardon Me has arrived - and Farsley is better for it.
Factfile
Address: Sunny Bank Mills, Unit 11/12, The Twisting, 83-85 Town St, Farsley LS28 5UJ
Telephone: N/A
Opening hours: Thursday: 5–11 pm, Friday: 3 pm-12:30 am, Saturday: 11 am-12:30am, Sunday11am-10 pm
Scores
Drinks: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Atmosphere: 9/10
Service: 10/10
Total: 9.25/10