Stories
Who doesn't love a pretty local coffee shop? No one, that's who. Scandinavian-inspired design, cakes from Noisette Bakehouse, cold pressed juice and Instagrammable scenes for days. We went to Stories on their opening weekend for coffee & cake, but I was very jealous of the dippy eggs being eaten by the couple next to us so I am definitely going back for brunch sometime very soon.
Mr Nobody [UPDATE: NOW CLOSED]
We ended up in Mr Nobody on a night out recently, and their Wye Valley Spritz is the cocktail that I'm now dreaming about on warm days. There's a lovely little garden outside if the sun is shining, and the inside has some fun little pods to sit in. We just went for drinks, but apparently you can grab a pizza with your drinks and (most excitingly of all) they serve up a tasting menu downstairs that sounds pretty amazing.
The Old Red Bus Station
This aptly named bar is right by my bus stop, and my daily peek in the window definitely makes me want to visit. Unfortunately, circumstances haven't conspired to get me through the doors yet but I know it will only be a matter of time. It's a multi-purpose venue serving up food and drink alongside art and music. The building is really unique, and it's so nice to see it being used at last!
I Am Doner
Kebabs get a pretty bad name. Usually the foodstuff consumed on a night out to satisfy drunken cravings, I Am Doner is giving the kebab a makeover and making it the dish every foodie is going to be talking about. Their house special combines slow-cooked lamb, super juicy chicken, falafel and halloumi with salad, feta and various pickles and other deliciousness all wrapped up in the softest bread. It was a flavour sensation and I already want another one.
La Casita
A few years ago, I was lucky enough to dine at The Pink Shed, catered by La Casita in Ilkley. The tapas was completely delicious, but I've not had a chance to experience it again. Now they've moved to Horsforth - just up the road - we'll definitely be taking a trip for a little Iberico pork cheek and Rioja.