Best Brunch Spots in Leeds City Centre: Independent Cafes and Restaurants You’ll Love

Updated September 2025

If you’re anything like me and can’t quite stomach an early breakfast, then brunch is probably your go-to first meal of the day. And when it comes to finding the best places for it, you’re spoilt for choice. Leeds city centre is bursting with fantastic independent cafes and restaurants, each serving up delicious brunch dishes well into the afternoon.

From hearty, protein-packed plates to sweet treats that feel like a little indulgence, these top-rated brunch spots in Leeds city centre have something to suit every craving and every kind of morning.

Where To Get Brunch in Leeds City Centre…

The Banksia

Brunch spots in Leeds city centre - the banksia

Hotel Indigo, 2 Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 4AE

Hotel Indigo Leeds’ new restaurant only opened its doors earlier this year, but it’s already making waves as a go-to spot for brunch in Leeds city centre. Blending Mediterranean flavours with a Yorkshire twist, the menu is served in a stylish yet relaxed setting that’s perfect for weekend catch-ups or a midweek treat.

Got a sweet tooth? Their pancake brunch is a must-try: soft, fluffy lemon buttermilk pancakes layered with creamy ricotta, tangy orange compote, and a sprinkle of candied pistachios. A truly delicious way to start your day.

Prefer savoury? You’ll be spoilt for choice. From perfectly poached eggs served as Turkish Eggs, Steak and Eggs, or the classic Benedict, Florentine, and Royale (all elevated with a silky rose harissa hollandaise), every dish comes with runny golden yolks cooked to perfection.

If your appetite leans more towards lunch, the all-day dining menu won’t disappoint. Think generously filled wraps, beautifully presented plates, and standout burgers. The Beef Kofta Burger comes highly recommended.

With award-winning chef Craig Rogan leading the kitchen, it’s no surprise that the food looks as stunning as it tastes. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch date or simply hunting for new brunch spots in Leeds city centre, Hotel Indigo Leeds’ restaurant is one not to miss.

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Farmhouse

Brunch spots in leeds city centre
IMAGE: The Yorkshire Press

20-22 Lands Lane, Leeds LS1 6LB

Farmhouse has long been one of Harrogate’s most loved brunch spots, and in August 2023, the independent favourite opened a second venue right in Leeds city centre. With its spacious, contemporary interiors and a menu that spans breakfast classics, inventive brunch dishes, globally inspired lunches, juicy burgers and crafted cocktails, it’s no surprise this new addition is already earning rave reviews.

There truly is something for everyone at one of the newest brunch spots in Leeds city centre. If you’re in the mood for something light and nourishing, the menu features acai bowls, Japanese rice bowls and superfood salads. For a more indulgent start to the day, you’ll find a hearty Full English, Shakshuka, Eggs Benedict, Smashed Avocado on Toast and plenty more brunch favourites.

A personal highlight is the Farmhouse Benedict. Served on sourdough crumpets, it’s layered with potato rosti, turkey bacon, two perfectly poached eggs, crispy halloumi and a generous drizzle of hollandaise. It’s filling, comforting and absolutely delicious.

Those with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed either. Farmhouse is known for its towering pancake stacks, topped with options like blueberry compote and banana or Lotus biscuits with Lotus spread, chocolate sauce and whipped cream. A treat that’s every bit as indulgent as it sounds.

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Green Room

Brunch spots in Leeds city centre - green room
IMAGE: Green Room

36 Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 2DE

Green Room on Wellington Street has earned its reputation as one of Leeds’ most versatile social spots. The huge roof terrace makes it a sun-soaked favourite during summer, while in colder months it transforms into a covered winter garden with heaters, blankets and plenty of atmosphere. Whether it’s a daytime catch-up or an evening out, the setting always feels inviting.

The food offering has recently had an upgrade, too. Bastards Bistro are now in residence at Green Room, serving a bold and creative menu that brings together brunch favourites, deli classics and comfort food with a twist.

The brunch menu is packed with choice, from focaccia sarnies and flatbreads to the signature McBastards pancake stack with bacon, fried egg and maple butter. Eggs on sourdough can be ordered poached, scrambled or fried, with optional add-ons like smoked salmon or avocado, while heartier dishes include Steak and Eggs with straw fries, Chorizo Roast Pepper Hash with parmesan and spinach, or Turkish Eggs with Aleppo butter and flatbread.

For those stopping by later in the day, the deli and lunch options are just as tempting. Highlights include a prawn and avocado sarnie with coriander and lime mayo, a chicken shawarma loaded with pickles and salad, a crispy Korean pork belly sandwich, and a double smash patty burger with fries. Sharing plates such as truffle mac and cheese, buffalo wings, and salt-and-pepper fries adds even more variety.

With its lively atmosphere, rooftop views and a menu that balances indulgence with creativity, Green Room Leeds has firmly established itself as one of the most exciting places for brunch in Leeds city centre.

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Olive & Rye

Queens Arcade, 18-20 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LF

Tucked away inside the elegant Queens Arcade, with its ornate Victorian features and boutique shops, Olive & Rye is one of Leeds’ most beloved independent cafés. Perfectly situated for a shopping break, this cosy spot serves a daily menu packed with creative takes on breakfast and brunch favourites, alongside hearty sandwiches and fresh, wholesome salads.

Breakfast items such as granola, bagels, and full cooked breakfasts are available until 2 pm, but the true highlight is the all-day brunch menu. With a wide range of options for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.

Plant-based and vegetarian diners can enjoy dishes like Mushroom on Toast with garlic mushrooms, sourdough, walnut pesto, and parmesan, or the ever-popular Avocado on Toast, topped with poached eggs, paprika oil, and pea shoots. Meat-eaters can indulge in hearty plates like the Chorizo Hash, featuring paprika-roasted sweet potatoes, semi-dried tomatoes, red onions, spinach, eggs, and chimichurri, or the indulgent Reuben Benedict, which includes pastrami, caramelised red onion chutney, poached eggs, mustard hollandaise, gherkins, crispy onions, and chives.

Sweet-tooth cravings are easily satisfied with treats such as Peach & Mixed Berry Pancakes with walnut crumb and vanilla custard, American Pancakes with streaky bacon and maple syrup, or Bacon and Fried Egg French Toast for a sweet-savoury twist.

With its central location, relaxed atmosphere, and innovative menu that delivers on flavour, Olive & Rye is a standout choice for brunch in Leeds city centre.

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IF Up North

43 Call Lane, Leeds LS1 7BT

IF Up North now has several venues across Leeds, but the story began on Call Lane, where the original café quickly became a favourite for coffee, cake and brunch lovers. Known for its exceptional coffee and all-day dining menu, IF Call Lane has earned a reputation as one of the best brunch spots in Leeds. Whether you’re after a quick caffeine fix with a slice of cake or a hearty brunch packed with locally sourced ingredients, this iconic café delivers every time.

The menu is a feast for the senses, from thick, fluffy pancakes loaded with summer fruits and Biscoff crumbs to full English breakfasts, burritos and perfectly executed Eggs Benedict. Every dish is beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. Meanwhile, the daily selection of cakes ensures there’s always something sweet to enjoy alongside your coffee.

For those after a boozy weekend brunch, IF Bar, just across the road, serves a brilliant bottomless brunch. It’s the perfect spot to pair daytime dishes with cocktails and soak up the lively Call Lane atmosphere.

With its combination of expertly crafted food, superb coffee and a welcoming vibe, IF Call Lane remains a must-visit destination for brunch in Leeds city centre.

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FINT

Brunch spots in Leeds
IMAGE: FINT

73 Great George Street, Leeds LS1 3BR

Looking for a unique brunch in Leeds city centre? FINT on Great George Street is a Scandinavian-inspired all-day dining venue serving seasonal, organic, and nutritious dishes in a minimalist, relaxed setting. Perfect for brunch dates or weekend catch-ups, FINT offers creative options you won’t find at other Leeds cafes.

Brunch is available from 10 am to 3 pm, with options to suit every taste. Start your day with Bay, Lemon & Cardamom Buckwheat Porridge, Tahini Granola, or Homemade Organic Crumpets. For a heartier option, the FINT Breakfast features apple and tarragon sausage, maple bacon, a poached egg, beans, pickled mushrooms, confit tomato, a Swedish potato pancake, and toast. The FINT Veggie Breakfast offers two vegan sausages with eggs or tofu scramble and the same accompaniments.

Egg dishes are a highlight, with the Eggs Benedict served on crumpets with hollandaise and pink onions, topped with salmon gravlax, wild mushrooms and spinach, or ham hock and kale. Sweet options include Pain Perdu French Toast with Nutella, cinnamon apple butter, tahini vanilla ice cream, and blackberries, or American-style pancakes with Biscoff or Nutella, orange cream, maple, and coffee caramel sauce.

FINT also serves lighter lunch-style dishes such as Nordic gnocchi, seasonal salads, open-faced Smørrebrød sandwiches, and sea bream with hollandaise, hasselback potatoes, and kale salad. Many dishes can be customised with extras like citrus tofu, halloumi, or ham hock.

With its inventive menu, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentation, FINT is one of the best brunch spots in Leeds city centre and a must-visit for food lovers.

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As is the case with all our articles of this nature, we’ll be amending and updating this list as and when we discover or are introduced to new businesses. To make a recommendation or to discuss advertising opportunities, please email business@theyorkshirepress.co.uk

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