The Leeds Lifestyle

The best thing about Leeds is that there is always something happening here, meaning it’s pretty much impossible to get bored of the place. Through living here I have come to know the best places to go, the cheapest cocktail joints and the perfect places to shop, it would be rude not to share them with you.

I have lived in Leeds for almost 3 years and I have developed a huge love for the city. I have had time to explore this vibrant stomping ground and try out every happy hour on Park Row, but I finally feel that it’s about time I share my loves in a hopeful bid to make them your loves too. I hope you can find it in your heart to cherish the following places and live my ‘Leeds Lifestyle’, even if it is just for the day.

SHOPPING

Trinity - Trinity Leeds is a brand new shopping centre right in the heart of Leeds city centre. It opened in March of this year with a huge opening ceremony attended by thousands. Trinity has a fantastic diverse range of shops from Hollister and Mango to Urban Outfitters and the highly anticipated Victoria’s Secrets. It has all of the favorite high street names along with a few unique brands, there is something for all ages and styles, so no one will be disappointed.

Victoria Quarter- The Victoria Quarter (VQ) is known as Leeds most prestigious and exclusive shopping arcade. It is in the heart of the City just off the main shopping street and features an array of designer shops and expensive brands. VQ is home to Louis Vuitton, Harvey Nichols and Paul Smith amongst many other high end brands. This is definitely the place if you want something very special and are prepared to spend that little bit more.

Blue Rinse – Blue Rinse is a very unique shop that is situated next to the corn exchange in the city centre. They sell one of kind vintage/ retro pieces that have been salvaged, cleaned and adapted to make beautiful garments. If you have an eye for kitsch old school pieces then blue rinse is perfect for a one off, individual item.

EATING OUT

Reds BBQ – Reds is known by everyone in Leeds as the best place to go for amazing American food.  It has the best ribs, available with any side you can think off, but you have to try the famous, ‘Donut Burger’, which consists of 2 beef burgers with layers of cheese and relish in between 2 sugary glazed donuts, it doesn't sound like it would work but it really really does!

Neon Cactus – The perfect place to go if you’re just feeling a little peckish. Neon Cactus is a Mexican restaurant which a twist, instead of your standard Mexican mains they do Mexican tapas. At 3 tapas dishes for £8 this place is great value for money and has a great lively atmosphere along with the best Mojito’s in town.

Angelica -  This brand new up market restaurant is new to the Leeds dining scene. It opened in March on Level 6 of Trinity Leeds meaning it boasts amazing panoramic views of the city. The food is a little pricey but well worth it, especially the lobster macaroni! This is the perfect place to go for a special occasion or if you just fancy a special treat.

Nightlife

Mooks – This is the one bar in Leeds that I go to at least once a week, its upbeat , fun and full of students, but the best thing about it is that all cocktails are 2-4-1 on weekdays meaning it is the cheapest cocktail joint in the city! I usually visit Mooks as the first stop on a night out but it is also nice during the evening for a few drinks and won’t break the bank.

The Alchemist - This bar is on another level! The recently opened Alchemist in another amazing place at the brand new trinity Leeds. It sells the most imaginative and tantalising cocktails I have ever seen. There’s everything smoking glass teapots to seemingly never ending jugs. Everything about this place is amazing, the only down point is that the queue is usually huge in the evening , so go in the afternoon to avoid waiting forever to get in.

Mint – Mint had just celebrated its 20^th Birthday and is still as popular now as it was back then. Mint primarily plays house music and often has events in which the best house DJ’s from all over Europe come and play at the venue, which is famous within the house music scene. Mint is quite a small venue so it is best to buy tickets as soon as possible for events and nights out.