Halifax, International Restaurant Guide

2021 Review: “Fantastic food” (“always plenty of interesting seasonal options, including great vegetarian choices”), that’s “great value” too, ensures the continuing popularity of Janet & Simon Baker’s eclectically decorated stalwart.

“Truly innovative tapas” (from crab and miso chips, to pulled pork gyoza with apple and gochujang mayo) has won a loyal band of followers for Mark Kemp’s “beautiful” converted pub, which, even half a decade on, is “so consistently good” (and excellent value to boot). Even though they’ve extended the opening from Wednesday to Sunday, the venue remains distinctly oversubscribed (“I really shouldn’t be posting this because it‘s always hard to get a table!”).

2021 Review: “Hockneys in view” as you dine are the most famous attraction of this noisy but atmospheric venue: a large, post-industrial space in the UNESCO-listed Salts Mill complex, open from breakfast on for a coffee or fuller meal (Saltburger, Caesar salad, etc).

Attached to the Grand Theatre of Opera North, this brasserie makes for a “very handy new addition to the Leeds dining scene, especially if you’re going to a show at the Grand”. While it was initially dedicated to extended residencies from small food businesses they appear to have changed tack, with former MasterChef: The Professionals semi-finalist Josh Whitehead appointed head chef in May 2023. Here’s hoping that it doesn’t lose its initial momentum.