Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds has quietly emerged as a culinary powerhouse. With its vibrant food culture, the city boasts a plethora of hidden seafood gems that are sure tantalise the taste buds. However, there’s more to Leeds’ love for seafood than meets the eye.
Did you know that our city’s obsession with fish dates back to the 19th century, when freshly caught seafood from England’s coasts made its way to Leeds’s bustling markets? This legacy lives on today, with some of our best chefs pushing the boundaries, and creating innovative seafood dishes that showcase the city’s gastronomic prowess. So, here are some of Leeds’ favourite seafood restaurants that you need to try.
1. Graveleys Fish And Chips
We had to kick things off with one of the best places in Leeds for classic fish and chips. Graveleys Fish And Chips is located in the White Rose Shopping Center on the edges of the city, with an extensive selection of staple dishes on offer. We recommend their fantastic fried haddock, served with their special batter that’s deliciously crispy.
📍The Core, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 6JD, United Kingdom
2. Cardigan Fish Bar
With generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, Cardigan Fish Bar is an adored dining destination in Leeds. Their menu is a paradise for seafood lovers, serving an array of delectable options that are bound to leave a lasting impression. This place is also inclusive, with an incredible array of vegetarian and vegan dishes on offer.
📍234 Cardigan Rd, Burley, Leeds LS6 1QL, United Kingdom
3. Blackhouse
Although not strictly a seafood restaurant, the selection of fish dishes at Blackhouse is unmatched. Expect melt-in-your-mouth options like the Chargrilled Swordfish, served with rosemary vegetables, rocket, cholula oil, and a lemon caper butter. However, we recommend the Grilled Seabrim with its deliciously moreish salsa verde.
📍31-33 E Parade, Leeds, LS1 5PS, United Kingdom
4. Catch Seafood Headingley
As you step inside Catch Seafood Headingley in Leeds, you’ll be magically transported to a coastal oasis. The mesmerizing range of seafood options, like their succulent Prawn Cocktail or expertly-cooked Calimari, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality.
📍9 Weetwood Ln, Headingley, Leeds LS16 5LT, United Kingdom
5. The Skyliner
As one of Leeds’ most famous fish restaurants, The Skyliner is an institutional part of Leeds’ dining scene. Prepare to indulge your senses with an impressive array of marine delicacies. From succulent, behemoth-sized haddock to the Wholetail Scampi, this eatery delivers an unmatched feast every time.
📍11-15 Austhorpe View, Whitkirk, Leeds LS15 8NN, United Kingdom
6. The Restaurant Bar & Grill
We’re obsessed with the fish and shellfish selection on The Restaurant Bar & Grill‘s extensive menu. From delectably seared scallops to exquisitely prepared lobster thermidor, everyone is truly catered for. This must-visit eatery is located in the landmark Old Post Office building in the heart of City Square, so its impressive ambiance and history is worth the visit alone.
📍The Old Post Office, 3 City Square, Leeds LS1 2AN, United Kingdom
7. San Carlo
When it comes to fine dining in Leeds, it doesn’t get much better than the adored Italian restaurant San Carlo. From succulent prawns to exquisitely prepared mussels, every plate is a work of art and beautifully crafted. Plus, because it’s Italian food, if you’re in a group of fussy eaters, you can satisfy your cravings for seafood while everyone else delves into other delicious delicacies.
📍6-7 S Parade, Leeds, LS1 5QX, United Kingdom
8. The Mermaid Fish Restaurant
For high-quality fish from sustainable sources, The Mermaid Fish Restaurant in Leeds is an absolute dream. The restaurant itself exudes cleanliness and an inviting ambiance, providing the ideal setting to savor the mouthwatering fare on offer. Their perfectly crisp chips are considered some of the best in the city!
📍Britannia Rd, Morley, Leeds LS27 0DT, United Kingdom
From traditional fish and chips to avant-garde seafood creations, Leeds offers a remarkable array of restaurants to satisfy every seafood lover’s cravings. So, whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or an adventurous foodie, dive deep into Leeds’s seafood scene and prepare to be swept away by a symphony of flavors. Be sure to keep these hotspots in mind the next time you’re craving fantastic seafood fare.