Location: 11–15 Wharf St, Leeds LS2 7EH

Cuisine: Modern European

Time visited: Dinner

Prices: Starters from £9, mains around £18–£28

Reservations: Required

Outdoor seating: Yes

Private dining: Available

Website: https://www.shearsyard.com

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Tucked away on Wharf Street in the Calls, Shears Yard is the kind of place that makes an impression before you even sit down. Set in an 18th-century warehouse, the industrial interiors — exposed brick, high ceilings, and chunky steel beams — are softened with warm lighting and slick Scandinavian-style woodwork. It’s effortlessly cool, yet totally welcoming.

This isn’t the kind of spot you stumble into. It’s where you book ahead, bring someone you want to impress, and settle in for something a bit special.

THE FOOD

The menu is seasonal and smart, leaning into bold modern European flavours without being fussy. On our visit, the standout starter was ale-braised ox cheek with Jerusalem artichoke and whipped Yorkshire blue — a dish full of depth, richness and contrasting textures.

For mains:

• Butter-poached cod arrived perfectly flaky, resting on fennel fondue with a crisp king prawn beignet and a glossy langoustine butter sauce. Elegant but comforting.

• The dry-aged sirloin was cooked rare, beautifully rested, and plated with charred shallots and a sticky bone marrow jus. The kind of dish you slow down for.

The dessert game is just as serious. The chocolate and stout torte with miso caramel somehow hit every craving in one go — dark, salty, sweet, and rich.

ATMOSPHERE & SERVICE

The vibe? Relaxed sophistication. The space is lively without being loud, ideal for date nights or smart get-togethers. Service was faultless — the team knew the menu inside out and offered great wine pairings without any pushiness.

If you’re into food-led evenings with great lighting, exposed brick walls, and wine that flows without the fuss, Shears Yard is your vibe.

THE VERDICT

Shears Yard is what happens when a restaurant doesn’t just get one thing right — it gets everything right. From the thoughtful menu and seasonal ingredients to the stylish space and slick service, it’s one of Leeds’ best all-rounders for modern dining.

Best for:

• Dinner dates

• Celebrations

• Sunday roasts

• Foodies who appreciate plating as much as flavour

Top dishes to try:

• Ale-braised ox cheek

• Butter-poached cod with king prawn beignet

• Chocolate & stout dessert with miso caramel

• Sunday roast (if you’re lucky enough to nab a table)

Opening hours:

• Monday–Tuesday: Closed

• Wednesday: Open seasonally (check site)

• Thursday–Friday: Dinner from 5:30pm

• Saturday: Lunch & dinner

• Sunday: Lunch only

Book ahead. Bring your appetite. Thank us later.