It's not just toasty temps and blue skies that welcome a season of alfresco dining. Venues across the city are making sure their gardens, patios and terraces are cosy in winter and sun-drenched in summer. So, without further ado, check out our roundup of outdoor restaurants in Leeds and discover some of the city's finest eats.
Last updated on 16th March 2023
Looking for heated outdoor dining in Leeds? Nestled in the Dock is The Canary Bar, which is sporting a terrace with views across the water. To keep you refreshed, there's an all-day menu of Greek salad, burgers and mezze, topped off by a choice of heady concoctions or local beers.
Thought that The Alchemist was just the destination for bubbling drinks and dry ice? Think again, because this gem also happens to be one of the best outdoor restaurants in Leeds Trinity. Head to the plush terrace for quirky brunches, stylish mains and plenty more.
For its must-try menu of both traditional and re-imagined Thai dishes, Chaophraya has got to be one of the best outdoor restaurants in Leeds city centre. But that's not all... They're fronting an exciting range of cocktails to wash down your meal. Chin chin.
The ultimate alfresco spot, Water Lane Boathouse boasts stunning views of Leeds' Canal Wharf, as well as a mouthwatering menu. Take a window seat or perch on one of the outdoor benches to watch the world float by as you chow down.
From textile mill to beloved watering hole, Headrow House is the historic spot that's now offering you the perfect place for rooftop dining. Topping it off? Their resident kitchen, The Ox Club, comes with the Michelin seal of approval.
Complete with a patio for outdoor dining, Browns is the beautiful brasserie offering up classic British fare, seasonal dishes and daily fish specials. There's even a gorgeous afternoon tea, plus plenty of Champagne and cocktails to enjoy throughout your meal.
After places to eat outside in Leeds city centre? The Botanist is the restaurant for British dishes and grilled grub, complete with a patio for outdoor dining. Topping it off is the lineup of pretty gin-packed cocktails to drink.
Slug and Lettuce is bringing affordable outdoor dining to the city centre, thanks to its Park Row venue. Offering everything from weekday dinners and happy hours to bottomless brunches and lunchtime bites, this restaurant also has an ace alfresco terrace.
One of the best restaurants in Leeds offering outdoor seating, Nation Of Shopkeepers is a real hit. Not only does the Cookridge Street pub offer a crowd-pleasing menu of burgers, chicken and vegan bites, but it's also got great craft beers to sip on.
From its stunning Old Post Office setting to the gorgeous terrace for alfresco dining in Leeds, Restaurant Bar & Grill is coming up trumps for outdoor meals. Not only that, but the menu that mixes British and pan-Asian cuisine is sure to satisfy.
Set up similar to a Leeds street food market, The Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen is a multifaceted space for your drinking, dining and event needs. They're keeping you filled up on hearty eats and comfort grub - oh, and did we mention the rooftop terrace?
Bottomless brunches, gin masterclasses, a handsome cocktail menu... it's all up for grabs at Banyan Leeds. As for outdoor space? Groups of drinkers and diners descend upon the patio in droves, keeping the tables filled morning, noon and night.
Looking to eat your Sunday lunch outside? The Adelphi has just the thing, serving up real ales and artisan spirits alongside piled-high plates of meat, veggies and lashings of gravy. They've also got a double whammy of seating both out front and in their back garden.
A Victorian-themed den with a sun-drenched terrace, The Lost & Found is a top choice for botanical cocktails and European fare. Housed within an impressive building and offering menus suited for vegans, veggies and carnivores alike, this restaurant and bar is an ideal choice.
While also a lively party palace when the sun goes down, Cuckoo is delivering the goods in the food department too. Featuring an intimate rooftop terrace and streetside tables, this top spot is great for weekend bottomless brunches, kooky cocktails and piles of pizza.
Sitting pretty atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, SkyLounge is one of the most glamorous restaurants with outdoor seating in Leeds. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic views and a menu pairing signature cocktails with brunch, afternoon tea and more.
Serving up a collection of pub grub classics and own-brand cask ales, The Midnight Bell is coming up trumps in the Urban Village. Meet your pals in the courtyard and settle down for freshly poured pints, a chilled out lunch or an indulgent Sunday roast.
A one-stop shop of brunch, booze and international fare, Canal Club is the stylish bar featuring waterfront seating for all your alfresco dining needs. Whet your whistle with fun cocktails, before munching on a mouthwatering selection of global tapas dishes.
Any meal at Shears Yard is sure to be a winner, but have you dined in the garden? With shabby-chic wooden tables and a load of leafy foliage, the spotlight is firmly shared between the gorgeous setting and the drool-worthy plates here.
Home to one of the biggest and best beer gardens in Leeds, The Cross Keys is a favourite among local punters all year round. Make your way to the Water Lane pub and restaurant for Sunday lunches, gastro bites and charming service while chilling with your mates.
With an incredible izakaya-style menu and a roof terrace equipped for heated outdoor dining in the cooler months or soaking up the sun come summer, Issho is winning points for style and substance. The perfect place for a special occasion, the restaurant and bar also has a number of signature cocktails available.
The oldest pub in the city, Whitelock's Ale House and The Turks Head has been going since the 1700s. Get down to the charming Briggate watering hole where you'll find the finest pub grub, a fresh catch of the day, craft ales and a spacious beer garden.
It's not hard to see why Angelica is regarded as one of Leeds' best rooftop restaurants. Along with a mouthwatering menu of fine dining dishes, a beautiful sky-high terrace and a stellar selection of cocktails, the Trinity haunt boasts enviable views across the city.
Whether you came for the wide selection of real ales or menu of classic pub grub, chances are that you'll be staying for the outdoor areas. Along with a first floor private terrace, The Lamb and Flag also has a courtyard beer garden clad with pretty fairy lights.
