Cocktail Bars In Leeds

• Location: 18 Park Row, LS1 5JA
• Why we recommend: the live music is fantastic - be sure to come down for their musical bottomless brunch on Saturdays for a taste of the 1920s

Bootlegger Leeds is a fabulous shout when it comes to drinking dens. Not only does the venue exude 1920s Prohibition vibes throughout, it also whips up the cocktails to match - we're talking a classic old fashioned and other forgotten favourites.

The speakeasy-inspired den hosts a regular lineup of live music and DJ sets, specialising in jazz, blues and soul. That's not all though, as they also offer frequent cocktail masterclasses and bottomless brunches on Saturdays. To celebrate the warmer months, the bar has launched a limited-edition summer menu available for a flat rate of just £9.50 during Sunset Hours, running daily until 11pm. It's the ideal city-centre spot to unwind with colleagues over a sophisticated Honey & Ginger Penicillin balancing Jameson Honey and ginger, or an incredibly refreshing, tropical Malibu Coconut Mojito.

• Location: 38 Call Lane, LS1 6DT
• Why we recommend: who doesn't love to sip tropical drinks in an island-inspired setting? We also love the affordability here

If you fancy something just a bit more tropical, then head upstairs at Call Lane Social to find Tiki Hideaway in pride of place. The South Pacific den is full of colourful Polynesian décor, Hawaiian shirts and fruity concoctions adorned with fire.

Some of our favourites include the Sugarloaf Punch or the booze-heavy Doctor Funk, made with absinthe. You can even nab a two for £15 deal on Island Inspiration cocktails and slushies.

• Location: 159A Lower Briggate, LS1 6LY
• Why we recommend: the US-inspired drinks and live music transport you to America, and their cocktail masterclasses are a great way to expand your mixology knowledge

If you're after one of the best cocktail bars in Leeds city centre, then look no further than Smokestack. Bringing a taste of New Orleans to the North of England, this watering hole plays host to live funk, soul, blues and jazz performances, whilst offering rum and absinthe laced drinks.

The speakeasy-style spot is serving up the likes of Cajun margaritas, a Jamaican old fashioned or the Appletini. They also serve bar snacks if you're peckish, and there are cocktail masterclasses if you fancy getting involved yourself.

• Location: Yorkshire House, Greek Street, LS1 5SH
• Why we recommend: the Instagrammable, theatrical drinks are always fun, and you'll leave with some great photos after every visit

Looking for theatrical cocktails? It's got to be The Alchemist. Known around the country for its bubbling and colour-changing drinks, the Greek Street bar is no exception. For those of you looking for a top date night or birthday party venue, be sure to check out their gorgeous rooftop bar in Leeds Trinity.

Each cocktail offers something different, served in Instagram-worthy containers. There are also tasty international dishes such as panko halloumi or tempura prawn lollipops, and their Icons Brunch promises three drinks and a dish for only £30 per person.

• Location: 31 King Street, LS1 2HL
• Why we recommend: they offer both affordable drinks and a party atmosphere - the perfect recipe for a great night out in the city centre

A guaranteed fun night out, Dirty Martini has made a name for itself as one of the best cocktail bars Leeds has to offer. Party vibes are paired with a cool design, whilst its extensive menu will see you sipping on everything from frozen margaritas to bellinis.

Their fantastic happy hour promises £7 cocktails, running Wednesday to Sunday. Also on the cards? Weekend bottomless brunches, complete with pretty birdcages full of sharing plates and endless drinks.

• Location: 37 Call Lane, LS1 7BT
• Why we recommend: you can nab a cocktail and a pizza for under a tenner - that's pretty much unheard of

Cuckoo has many strings to its bow: vibrant interiors, neon lights and craft beer aplenty. But it's not just the banging tunes that'll attract you to the party spot. It's also up there on the list of cheap cocktail bars in Leeds, serving up signature sips and classics alike from just £9.50.

Look forward to getting your lips around the Bacardi coconut rum-based Pina Koala, and the fruit Turtle-Ey Awesome to name a few. If you're feeling peckish, they serve free pizzas with any drink purchase before 9pm - with toppings ranging from roast chicken to diced pancetta and katsu sauce.

• Location: 3 Albion Place, LS1 6JL
• Why we recommend: you'll find great food and drink in stylish surrounds - the fairy light-covered tree is a great photo backdrop

The Lost & Found at Albion Place and Greek Street mixes a cool and casual atmosphere with a splash of old school adventure. The gorgeous interiors feature an indoor tree covered in fairy lights, high ceilings and a simple white colour scheme.

With a drinks menu inspired by locations around the world, you'll find botanical sips, fruity pours and themed booze aplenty at this swish spot. Our recommendation? The Jerry's Biscoff Shake, paired with plates like baked British camembert or maple-glazed pork chops.

• Location: 19 Boar Lane, LS1 6EA
• Why we recommend: they offer two-for-one cocktails every day, making it one of our favourite choices for a cheap night out

Be At One Leeds is a one-stop shop for carefree nights. Head to the Boar Lane or Greek Street cocktail bar in the evening and you'll be greeted with neon signs, pumping music and a gaggle of dancing mixologists ready to help you let loose 'til the early hours.

On the hunt for 2 for 1 cocktails in Leeds? They offer this from 4.30 to 9pm on weekdays and from 12 on weekends. This includes all the classics, as well as signature sips like the banana-infused Golden Boomerang or a rhubarb-flavoured Blue Planet.

• Location: 67 Boar Lane, LS1 6HW
• Why we recommend: the Instagrammable interiors and botanical cocktails add up to create a charming setting with an affordable price tag

For an affordable, gin-heavy drinks menu in the heart of the city, check out The Botanist. The venue fronts floral decor and pretty interiors, filled with rustic and vintage furnishings, as well as a stunning outdoor terrace. 

Sip botanical blends like the Cherry Blossom Martini or The Plant Pot, made with kiwi and honey syrup. Hungry? They also serve all kinds of international dishes, from crispy chicken burgers and pan-fried sea bass to their famous hanging kebabs.

• Location: 14 Merrion Street, LS1 6PQ
• Why we recommend: their fantastic food and drink deals mean you don't need to spend a lot to have a good time here, and be sure to nab a free pizza when you can

Nestled in Leeds city centre, Mean Eyed Cat takes inspiration from the dive bars of the Deep South, offering chic and quirky decor. Pop by for perfectly prepared pizzas and unique cocktails, such as the PB&J old fashioned or a whiskey-based Pineapple BBQ.

They offer some pretty incredible deals here as well. We're talking a free pizza with every drink from 5 until 9pm, alongside the opportunity to roll a dice and potentially get 25% or 100% off your bill.

• Location: Hirst's Yard, LS1 6NJ
• Why we recommend: you can find everything from bottomless brunches to DJs here, making for an eclectic mix of entertainment with your drinks

Located in the city centre, The End is one of our favourite watering holes. The cocktail joint has a slew of classic concoctions from espresso martinis to brambles and mojitos, as well as afternoon teas-style bottomless brunches every Saturday from 2pm to 4pm.

Expect chic decor, including exposed brick walls, comfortable leather sofas and a dark grey and black colour scheme. Plus, they host some of the very best DJs around on a regular basis.

• Location: The Dockside, LS10 1EG
• Why we recommend: this casual dockside bar is serving twists on classic cocktails, and the happy hour is unmissable

Treat yourself to delicious, bespoke drinks at The Canary, situated in Leeds Dock. The warm, versatile cocktail bar offers two bars across both it's floors with locally brewed beers on the menu too.

Expect £10 cocktails like spicy margaritas and their take on an old fashioned, with a two for £13 happy hour spanning 4pm til' 7pm Sunday to Friday. There's a cracking food menu too, ranging from battered cauliflower tacos to crispy chicken burgers and loaded chips.

• Location: 7 Grand Arcade, LS1 6PG
• Why we recommend: the entertainment is unbeatable here, whether you're in the mood for live jazz or to be serenaded while you sip cocktails

For great drinks and even better entertainment, head to The Domino Club tucked behind The Grand Arcade. They offer a cracking selection of cocktails using their range of premium spirits, with live music on their neon-lit stage five nights a week. 

Some of their top drinks include the tropical Jungle Bird and a strawberry and fennel-infused mezcal negroni. As for the entertainment, think jazz bands, powerful vocalists and much more. 

• Location: 4 The Boulevard, LS10 1PZ
• Why we recommend: this spot is ideal for a few relaxed drinks with friends, and be sure to visit on a Thursday or Friday evening for great deals

Located in Leeds Dock, Fearns is a super cool and contemporary bar and restaurant that doubles up as a slinky cocktail bar. It sports modern decor in the form of a forest green bar, bench seating and golden panelling and is a laidback, creative place to meet up with friends to enjoy some signature sips.

Look forward to getting your lips around the likes of the pear and cranberry-flavoured Strawberry Kiss and spicy mango margarita. They also offer two selected cocktails for £13 from 4 to 7pm on Thursdays and Fridays.

• Location: 39 Call Lane, LS1 7BT
• Why we recommend: nothing beats sunny rooftop drinks, and we can certainly see why they earned a spot in the UK Top 50 Cocktail Bars list

A trendy but welcoming spot on Call Lane, Roland's was awarded a place in the UK Top 50 Cocktail Bars in 2022. They've got a wide selection of classics and signatures to choose from, including a pomegranate cosmo or the sundried tomato martini.

This relaxed space is made up of several different drinking areas, fronting comfy leather booths, exposed brick walls and rustic wooden furnishings - with lots of plants to brighten it up. Plus, there's a beer garden and secret roof terrace for the sunnier months.

• Location: 5 Stainbeck Corner, LS7 3PG
• Why we recommend: this is a charming, rustic cocktail bar with a rooftop terrace that's well worth a visit - particularly good during summer

The Woods in Chapel Allerton is the perfect spot for cocktail lovers. The rustic wooden venue offers a stylish, relaxed atmosphere that complements its carefully curated cocktail menu.

Whether you're enjoying a creative mix on the balcony or savouring a refreshing drink on the rooftop garden bar, the ambience and drink quality combine to make it an ideal destination for cocktail enthusiasts. It's a great choice if you're looking for a place to enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a relaxed yet vibrant environment.

• Location: 117 Albion Street, LS2 8DY
• Why we recommend: you'll get to enjoy quirky entertainment with your drink, and the bold, colourful decor adds a whimsical twist to the destination

One of the quirkiest cocktail bars in the city, Carousel can be found on Albion Street. This whimsical destination is filled with colour, themed around a nostalgic fairground - think warm lighting, circular booth seating and lots of old-school arcade games.

That's not all there is on the entertainment front, as they've also got karaoke rooms, shuffleboard and interactive darts. And the drinks are just as exciting - we recommend the Candy Crush for anyone with a sweet tooth. Nab two-for-one cocktails from Sunday to Friday, paired with scrumptious eats like barbecued jackfruit, katsu chicken or birria beef burgers.

• Location: The Old Post Office, 2 City Square, LS1 2ES
• Why we recommend: they're promising two-for-one cocktails and alfresco drinks, and the historic building combined with vibrant interiors make for a unique setting

Located within the stunning old Post Office building on City Square, Banyan is a laid-back bar that's decked out in plush blue velvet armchairs and pretty lighting. It's one of the few places that you can get two-for-one cocktails all day, every day, and there's even a two-hour bottomless brunch daily.

From the Royal Rose Martini to the Lemon cheesecake, there are lots of great signature serves, alongside the classics. The food menu includes chicken schnitzel, roasted cauliflower curry, mac 'n' cheese and more - or you can opt for a cocktail masterclass for something more interactive. And the best part? There's an outdoor terrace for the summer months.

• Location: 20 Long Row, Horsforth, LS18 5AA
• Why we recommend: this is a top choice for gin lovers, and the beer garden is gorgeous during the warmer months

A rustic bar in Horsforth, Granvilles Beer & Gin House is decked out in wooden decor that creates a warm but sophisticated vibe. They've got a collection of over 90 different gins, which can be sipped as they are or as part of one of their creative cocktails.

They also offer scrumptious bar snacks, from charcuterie boards to mixed nuts and marinated olives. And when the weather is a little warmer? Check out their charming garden, covered with a glass roof and surrounded by greenery.

• Location: 29 East Parade, LS1 5PS
• Why we recommend: there are non-stop party vibes here, with a New York-inspired menu and interior that's full of glamour

A New York-inspired cocktail bar that oozes style and glamour, Manahatta is a fun choice for late-night partying and daytime drinks alike. This sleek spot is filled with plush leather booths and cool neon signs, with golden touches throughout.

They serve all the classics, as well as signatures like the Orchard Apple Spritz. They also specialise in bottomless brunches, with both afternoon and evening bookings available, while the food menu features everything from smoked pancetta beef burgers to mozzarella sticks.

• Location: 5 King St, LS1 2HQ
• Why we recommend: for fine food and fancy drinks in a beautiful 1890s building

Looking to sip on something sophisticated in the heart of the city? The Met has just what you need.

Its drinks list packs in everything from old fashioneds, martinis, negronis and other classic cocktails to signature serves like the Yorkshire Triangle. Need a little something to nibble on? Small plates, sandwiches and glorious grilled creations will soon see to that.

• Location: Criterion Place, Off Sovereign Street, LS1 4AG
• Why we recommend: the venue is a staple of Leeds nightlife, and I'd head here for a sophisticated drink with a side of live music 

This authentic Italian restaurant and bar can be found in the heart of Leeds city centre. Bibis Restaurant brings a lot to the table in the form of striking interiors - think Art Deco accents, emerald greens, and nods to the 1920s. Established in 1974, it's been a long-time favourite and home to 'showtime', aka live music shows every week, ranging from tribute acts to Friday night parties. 

The cocktails, including the syrups and garnishes, are made completely from scratch. Enjoy the likes of a limoncello mojito, an Italian iced tea, a Sorrento sour, and much more. There are also cocktail classes for £40 per person, which include two drinks and nibbles.

• Location: 5 Cross Belgrave Street, LS2 8JP
• Why we recommend: the cool Victorian aesthetics and premium concoctions on offer add a unique element to the night that you won't find just anywhere

Blind Tyger features cosy booths to sink into, cool trinkets to look at and a whole load of Victorian lounge aesthetic. What's not to love? You can also sip on some of the classiest cocktails in Leeds, created using the finest ingredients around.

Tipples include the boozy custard combination Lisbon Tart, the rhubarb and red berry God's Own or a Coffee Cake. Plus, they offer cocktail masterclasses here too.

• Location: 48 Call Lane, LS1 6DT
• Why we recommend: there are non-stop party vibes here, and it's one of our most budget-friendly picks too

You can't talk about cocktail bars in Leeds without mentioning Revolution. The vodka masters are known to throw together a great selection of spirits, wines and beer, handy for keeping you dancing at their regular DJ nights.

Drinks include a Professor Cherry or the pink gin Mean Girl, while their tasty plates range from double smash burgers to truffle mushroom pizzas. Their bottomless brunches come with unlimited cocktails, and if you fancy shaking some up yourself then they hold masterclasses too.

• Location: 1 Call Lane, LS1 7DH
• Why we recommend: this place is great for trying out unique new flavour combinations - our favourite is the Mint X Cacao

A secret to everyone but those in the know, The Maven is a hidden gem in Leeds. This prohibition-style speakeasy offers as much fun as it does delicious drinks, with sultry interiors and unique concoctions making it a great date night bar.

There are some truly unique sips on offer here, each blending two distinct flavours, such as the rum-based Banana X Beetroot or a Mint X Cacao. Can't decide? Try out a cocktail tasting menu, which showcases their very best creations - with hands-on masterclasses available too.

• Location: 68 New Briggate, LS1 6NU
• Why we recommend: you can enjoy award-winning cocktails in a sleek basement bar - the Top 50 placement doesn't lie

A fine dining restaurant upstairs and an award-winning Leeds cocktail bar downstairs, Vice & Virtue are heavyweights in the city's drinking and dining scene. These guys have been named in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars, thanks to their high-quality drinks.

Venture down to the broody boozer where serves such as a Nordic spritz and bittersweet sour await. Hungry? They also serve the likes of burnt cod with salsify and truffle purée or Whitby crab with squid ink emulsion.

• Location: 18 Merrion Street, LS1 6PQ
• Why we recommend: we love the unique, dive bar vibes - and where else can you sip a hard shake infused with whiskey?

Whiskey-infused hard shakes? Loaded burgers? Dive bar feels? These are just a few of the things that make MOJO a top choice of cocktail bar in Leeds. Head to the Merrion Street hangout for date nights, after-work drinks and everything in between.

Having been around since 1996, these guys have got some experience when it comes to drinks. Be sure to try out the Cherry Chapstick, made with black cherry gin, or a Cuban Salted Caramel for something a little more creamy.

• Location: 8 Eastgate, LS2 7JL
• Why we recommend: they serve award-winning drinks in an art deco-inspired space, and we always feel welcome on a visit here

Eastgate venue Tabula Rasa is a cool cocktail bar and cafe that combines European charm with creative decor - founded by Greek mixologist Filippos Filippopoulos. Think 1920s art deco-style interiors, complete with marble tables, green velvet seating and a warm colour scheme.

Coming in at number 27 on the Top 50 Cocktail Bars in the UK list, this place promises a killer drinks list. That's not all though, as you can also find local art and live music here.

• Location: 2 Wharf Approach, LS11 5PS
• Why we recommend: the rooftop views are stunning, you can see the entire city while sipping refined, flavourful cocktails

On the hunt for rooftop cocktail bars in Leeds? Then we've got just the thing for you. Situated in the Temple area, on the 13^th floor of the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, this stylish lounge provides views of the entire city from its large windows and spacious outdoor terrace.

They've got a huge range of classic and signature cocktails, from the Yuzu Drop to an Elderberry Fusion. To top it all off, they're serving up bottomless brunches, afternoon tea and tasty bar food in the evenings - from crispy calamari rings to spicy nduja flatbreads.

• Location: Consort House, 12 South Parade, LS1 5QS
• Why we recommend: you won't find cocktails like this anywhere else, each one of them is truly unique with a lot of thought put into it

If it's a classy affair you're after, then head to Below Stairs in the city centre, where every cocktail tells a story. It has been awarded number 15 in the Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, as well as Sustainable Bar of the Year 2024, among other awards.

Expect dark interiors with lots of cool artwork lining the walls, alongside a quirky menu of signature drinks (alongside all the classics). Our favourite? The Clean Sheets, made with vodka, lavender and chamomile.

• Location: 18 Swinegate, LS1 4AG
• Why we recommend: this is a perfect pick for cocktails and small plates, and we love the unique ingredients found across their drinks menu

A cool independent bar in the heart of the city, Farrands combines elegant sophistication with cosy, modern charm. They've got both a beautiful interior and covered outdoor space, with lots of pretty greenery throughout.

Drinks range from a Guinness-based Black Velvet to the Pea Time, infused with yuzu, ginger and sugar snap peas. If you're hungry, they've also got a small plates menu of truffle honey camembert, charcuterie boards, balsamic onions and more.

• Location: 36 Call Lane, LS1 7BT
• Why we recommend: there's a retro 80s vibe here, with amazing, disco-focused DJ sets and tasty small plates on top of the cocktails

For light bites and legendary cocktails, you can't go wrong with a trip to Power, Corruption & Lies on Call Lane. This cool restaurant bar is filled with sleek, industrial interiors, illuminated by warm lighting and featuring 1980s-themed decor.

You'll also catch DJs spinning disco hits on a regular basis, while you enjoy all sorts of inventive sips. If you're peckish, there are tasty Pan-Asian bites like honey and chilli-glazed pork belly, chicken gyoza and cucumber salad.

• Location: 35 Call Lane, LS1 7BT
• Why we recommend: if you're a fan of Mexican food and drinks, this is the place for you, and the colourful interiors make it extra fun to hang out in

A Mexican bar and restaurant that provides an authentic Latin American experience, Neon Cactus can be found on Call Lane. Expect bright, colourful interiors and a buzzing atmosphere, with an extensive drinks menu that spans from mandarin palomas to the Lychee Like That.

If you're hungry, they also whip up everything from a Guinness pulled pork burrito to spiced butternut squash or honey and chilli-roasted aubergine quesadillas.