Say what you want about our friends across the pond, but one thing’s for certain: they know how to eat! And here in Leeds, there are plenty of businesses who are willing to give us a taste of that unbeatable USA dining experience. Whether it’s the décor and atmosphere you’re going for, or just some proper good food, here are some of the top American-style eateries to try out around the city.
Pizza Freak
Rising from the depths of lockdown, this pizzeria has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of their Leeds customers through the delicious Detroit & New York-style pizzas they serve. Prepare to be seduced by heaped toppings of cheese, pepperoni, meatballs and more. These flavour sensations are layered over soft, thick pizza dough that’s been carefully fermented to ensure you get the perfect bite every time. If it sounds like heaven, you wouldn’t be far off. Their restaurant on Kirkstall Road is like a scene straight out of New York, with a stripped-back, authentic vibe, and staff that make you feel right at home. You simply can’t help but feel comfortable when you’re there. So there’s no need to fork out on the plane ticket – Pizza Freak brings that East Coast feel direct to Leeds. If that’s still too far out, they can bring it directly to your door, too, with delivery options available 6 days a week!
Meat: Stack
Focusing on traditional American flavours and quality is Meat: Stack’s whole ethos, and they embody that every day through the burgers they create. Premium produce, fresh ingredients, and a close-knit team of chefs who are dedicated to bringing people together through food – that’s a perfect storm for a good meal if you ask me. And with their new store now open in Leeds, we’ve all been given the opportunity to experience it for ourselves. They’ve got a great variety of options – spicy chicken, plant-based, and Texan BBQ being among them – and considering their premium location right next to the Leeds train station, why not pop in on your lunch break and check them out for yourselves?
Meatliquor Leeds
They may be tucked away next to the Trinity Shopping Centre, but MEATliquor makes a big noise when it comes to their American-style dining experience. Sports, games, drinks, food – they’ve got all of it and more. Admittedly, you might have to forget about calories for the day as you tuck into their deep-friend cheesy chorizo or stacked chicken burger. But once you take that first bite, you won’t even care. The taste is more than worth it! And with burgers that start at £7.50, you can get that all-American flavour without needing to break the bank. So, if you fancy eating your bodyweight in cheesy snacks and chocolatey delights, then get yourself to MEATliquor and discover what it’s like to live like a true American hedonist.
Honest Burgers
Well, the clue’s in the name: these burgers don’t just taste good, but they’re made by a company that strives to do good as well. At Honest Burgers, you can tuck into your delicious meal and know that every bite has been ethically sourced and comes from regenerative farming processes. They’ve got a great selection of chicken, beef and veggie options too, so no one will be going home hungry when they step through the door. With their restaurant located just opposite the Corn Exchange, it’s easy to head down there with a colleague on your lunch break and peruse the many options available on their menu. There’s no better way to bond with a work friend than over a delicious, stacked cheeseburger, after all.
El’s Gourmet:
You know a burger is going to be good when it’s won awards, and so El’s Gourmet is certifiably outstanding. With exclusive secret menus, carefully crafted meals and staff that are always on hand to advise you on the best options to choose, you’ll be in foodie heaven from the moment you arrive. While they are undeniably savants of the savoury, El’s Gourmet also exceeds in the sweet department too. In true American fashion, they have a whole host of creamy milkshakes to slurp down, as well as thick cuts of cheesecake that are guaranteed to make your mouth water. You may be physically sat in Leeds, but you’ll feel as if you’re tucking into food that’s come straight from the USA’s finest all-night diner.
Images- @pizzafreakuk, @meatstacklds, @honestburgers
