An independent bar and fine dining kitchen famed for its soft lighting and exposed brick interior as well as its seasonal menus, Shear’s Yard near The Calls is ideal for an intimate dinner with exceptional food (and company of course!) – just what you’re searching for when it comes to restaurants this Valentine’s Day in Leeds.
The bar is also perfect for an after-meal cocktail, so if you’re looking for a place to cosy up for the night, then Shear’s Yard might be the place for you.
Created by the founders of nearby Arts Café, another romantic hotspot in the city, if one’s fully booked, why not try the other?
Stocked Up on Love
Established in 2015 and famous for its ‘Yorkshire wagyu’, Stockdales of Yorkshire has quietly built a reputation as a place to go for those ‘in the know’ about the best food in Leeds. Embracing the culture of responsibly sourced ingredients, it resulted in the restaurant being recommended by the Michelin Guide two years ago.
Located in an impressive Grade II listed building on East Parade, if you’re looking to make a big impression, then this could be the place to take your date. Try its
mouthwatering a la carte menu, featuring hits like braised wagyu featherblade and pot roast confit chicken.
J’adore
It is easy to see why Kendells Bistro remains an obvious choice for a romantic meal out in Leeds. The French bistro setting of candlelit tables offer instant atmosphere. The extensive menu on the blackboard of French cuisine favourites cooked up by owner Steve Kendell, and the attentive but not overbearing service will make you feel like you’re at an authentic restaurant in Paris.
Just around the corner from Leeds Playhouse, it’s perfect for a pre-theatre treat for two. Bon appetite!
Home is Where the Heart Is
Hidden away above the bustling streets of the city centre, you’d be forgiven for walking straight past one of the most talked about new eateries in West Yorkshire.
HOME, created by former MasterChef semi-finalist Liz Cottam and Mark Owens, former head chef at the Box Tree in Ilkley, reimagines familiar British flavours using high quality local produce.
The spacious restaurant on Kirkgate is clearly on its way to getting its first Michelin star if the prices are anything to go by, but the quality of the food matches the team’s lofty ambitions. 10-course tasting menus that mainly use ingredients sourced near Harewood, as well as a grown-up cocktail and wine selection ensure that HOME is a strong contender if you and your partner mean serious business this Valentine’s Day. Just don’t glance at the bill!
Best Bars to Check Out this Valentine’s Day in Leeds
Need somewhere for a quick drink before cuddling up in the cinema or catching a show? JLife selects some must-visit stop offs for that all important Valentine’s toast!
Salon Privé
Greek Street’s only terraced bar, Salon Privé has plush chocolate brown leather chairs, high tables, marble bar surfaces and decadent lighting, this chic setting can all be accessed via a private entrance on Russell Street. Over 190 gins are available to explore, stocked from local suppliers from the likes of Yorkshire, Manchester and Liverpool, as well as imports from distilleries around the globe.
Based on the first floor of the luxury Dakota Deluxe hotel, the bar also has a regular line-up of live music to enjoy too from local pianists to bands that can recreate the musical vibes of a speakeasy!
Below Stairs
The true meaning of an ‘experience’, Below Stairs on South Parade is ripping up the rule book when it comes to serving cocktails. Bringing back table service and talking through the creation of every concoction to customers are just some of the ways that owners and brothers Jamie and Mannie Monaghan have decided to solely focus on the art of mixology, creating every drink in-house and from scratch.
You and your partner don’t have to be cocktail connoisseurs to drink here though. Classic cocktails and six lines of draught are still available, as well as a selection of small vineyard produced wines too. But be sure to book ahead for your table however, so you can enjoy everything that Below Stairs has to offer.
Planning a Valentine’s Day meal further afield? Why not check out our restaurant suggestions for Valentine’s Day in Manchester!
Featured Image: Shear’s Yard
