Something A Little Different In Leeds

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By Marcus Sanigar Food, Drink & Events Writer, DesignMyNight Food, drink and events writer with a decade of experience covering the UK hospitality scene. Has written for Expedia, Trainline and more. Last updated on 30th April 2026

While we're sure your local is just fine, sometimes you just want something a little different in Leeds. Which is great, because the city is positively brimming with alternative bars, bringing unique concepts, crazy cocktails and even conversation-starting decor. So if you're after quirky bars in Leeds, read our recommended list and have fun.




Sounds Familiar Music Quiz - Leeds

@ Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen on Friday 7th August 2026 and 3 other Fridays

The only music quiz to have played Glasto more times than Bowie, support the boy band 5ive and sold out The Roundhouse, Sounds Familiar is not your normal night out. As you test your music trivia, you'll hear over 100 epic tracks. 

Expect a little of everything from chart classics and power ballads to guilty pleasures and marvellous mash-ups. This place is sure to fill up - secure your spot for just £8 per person.

Soul Bingo Leeds

@ Revolucion de Cuba Leeds on Saturday 16th May 2026

Get on down to Revolucion de Cuba Leeds for a night of exciting prizes and big fun at Soul Bingo. As you groove to the sounds of soul and Motown, you'll frantically wield your dabber in search of a full house.

Expect epic prizes, soulful surprises and hits from the likes of Luther Vandross, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston and many more. Grab your tickets from just £11.

Rita’s Beer Hall & Ballroom, Leeds

🍕 Marg & Marg For £9 🍸 and 1 other offer

Located on Woodhouse Lane in the city centre, Rita's Beer Hall & Ballroom is always throwing a party, hosting live music every single day and DJs playing into the night. Plus, there are a number of leopard print pool tables that are perfect for a little friendly competition.

While you're here, tuck into 24-inch pizzas topped with chargrilled chicken, goat's cheese, portobello mushrooms and more - paired with killer cocktails and £6 tequila slushies.

Escape Hunt Leeds

Take on a thrilling escape room challenge with your mates for a fun bonding experience. You'll have 60 minutes to complete a series of puzzles and challenges in a themed room of your choosing, in order to earn your freedom and gain the glory. 

NQ64 Leeds

With a stash of retro consoles and gaming-themed cocktails, NQ64 Leeds is an excellent spot for dates and nights out with friends, decked out with neon graffiti and vibrant furnishings. They've got a ton of 80s and 90s arcade games, as well as old-school consoles like N64s and PlayStations.

Zaap

Zaap hopes to transport people to the streets of Thailand with upcycled light features, lanterns and Thai street signs, as well as speakers playing a mixture of Thai pop or rock music. Really great for people looking for something different to do in Leeds, they also serve up a delicious array of authentic Thai dishes.

Bulgogi Grill

This Korean restaurant gives a fun, interactive element to Chinese cooking. Delivering locally-sourced BBQ meats and seafood, marinated in traditional Korean seasonings and sauces, you'll get to cook them yourselves on the concave grill on your table.

Outlaws Yacht Club

The Outlaws Yacht Club manages to combine artistry with socialising in one space. This cool bar in Leeds is all laidback sofas, surrounded by artwork from local artists, lending the place a vibrant atmosphere. Couple that with the beer, wine and cocktails, as well as loose teas and local coffees, and you've got a great place to hangout.

Mans Market

New-age Chinese food is king at Mans Market, offering a quirkily decorated restaurant that delivers on flavours. Expect kitsch oriental décor and hanging Chinese lanterns made all the better by a menu of delicious meat boxes and Dim Sum, washed down by Hong Kong-inspired cocktails.

Teppanyaki

It's not just Japanese food at Teppanyaki: it's about theatre too! You'll sit around the hot plate as the friendly chefs cook you up something great (delivering both tasty food and banter), creating a fun, social atmosphere.