Jordan Odu: ‘I’m back – and I’ve got the inside scoop on what’s happening in Leeds’

I'm back.

Before Covid, which actually feels like a lifetime ago now, I wrote a monthly column for the Yorkshire Evening Post filling you in on everything happening around Leeds.

Then the world shut down, I had nowhere to send you, and the column went with it. But I am super excited to say I'm back, shouting about my favourite city in the world, Leeds.

For anyone who doesn't know me yet, I’m Jordan, I run PR and events agency PGHL, and I have my finger firmly on the pulse of this city.

People call me the ‘man in the know,’ and honestly? I'll take it. Every month I'll be here bringing you the newness, the what's-on, and everything you need to sound like an insider down the pub.

Let's get into it.

New season, new menus

If you know me, you know I live for eating out and my favourite thing about a new season is the new menus, new openings and new outfits that come with it. Here are some of my current top picks:

Whitehall Restaurant: Roasting season is officially back, and I'll say it, this is probably my favourite roast in the city right now. It’s yet to be beaten.

Prison Island: Landing in Leeds very soon with its first-ever northern venue this one is for the organised-fun lovers. Think Crystal Maze meets the city's biggest interactive action game.

Moods: Hands down the best-looking bar in Leeds right now, with incredible food from the seriously talented Craig Rogan, plus cocktails that hit the spot! I'll be back with a full menu review soon.

One new arrival to the city that I’m very excited about is FaceGym at Victoria Leeds. This is a very much needed opening for anyone (me) whose double chin has been quietly creeping in from stuffing their face across the city all summer. Apparently, its ‘workouts’ sculpt, lift, and tone your face with results in as little as 35 minutes - I’ll give it a whirl and report back.

Big nights out

Autumn always brings some great events to Leeds. Light Night is a personal fave and I do love a trip to Leeds Grand Theatre on a chilly evening.

Leeds First Direct Bank Arena always brings the big acts and the autumn line-up isn't holding back - Pussycat Dolls, Westlife, Myles Smith and Jungle are all on the bill this season.

And Leeds nightlife just got a serious boost, with the city's biggest club, MintXL, throwing open its doors to some world-class DJs and artists along with thousands of clubbers over the opening weekend alone. I’ll see you on the dancefloor.

Yes, I’m saying it - Christmas!

I know summer has barely ended, but I'm dropping the C-bomb early. Christmas has entered the chat and I have to say, I'm loving the sound of the new Christmas market landing on City Square.

While Millennium Square's market ticks the box if you’re looking for a fun fair vibe, City Square's new direction with cool local food traders, proper bars, and entertainment is sounding right up my street!

It’s being brought to the city by the team behind Thor’s Tipi, which has been a staple at the market for several years, so you know it’s gonna be good. I'll bring you more as I find out, but I'll definitely see you there for a stein (or three).

Until next time, thank you for reading, and I'll catch you all next month.

It is SO good to be back.