Leeds is full of so many incredible independent businesses and people, yet some of us are still unfamiliar with who they are and what they do. Some have been residents in Leeds for years while others are fairly new and became a part of the city when we were all locked away in 2021/21. So it’s time to get to know some of the people in Leeds and everything you need to know about their business. Introducing Wapentake…
Wapentake is a cosy cafe and bar that’s nestled away on the oldest street in Leeds, Kirkgate, and dedicated to their love of Yorkshire. Finally the area is full of life and getting the recognition it deserves. Originally starting up five years ago, Wapentake was taken over by current owners Lily and Connor in November 2020, who have been building the place back up after lockdown.
They’re more well known for their brunch and coffee during the day, as well as their notorious roast dinners served every Sunday. Their menu is as local as it gets, sourcing ingredients from their neighbours in Kirkgate Market, and also aim to have a vegan alternative for every meat option on their menu. They also have an extensive variety of drinks on cask, on keg and in the fridges which includes a lot of interesting beers and ales from local micro breweries.
When it comes to bestsellers, their Yorkshire breakfast takes the top spot as it includes sausage, bacon, black pudding, tomato, hash browns, poached egg, toast and beans all for a reasonable price. You can even buy a Viking breakfast as well which is double the size. Wapentake has a vegan and gluten free version of almost everything on the menu which are very popular. Some of their bestsellers in the evening are the Kirkstall pale ale of their Wapentake lager.
Wapentake is all about supporting locals by using local suppliers wherever they can as it’s part of their whole concept as a business. They buy most of their produce from Kirkgate Market and Nells Urban Greens, and support an endless list of local breweries including Northern Monk, Nomadic Beers, Vocation Brewery, Kirkstall Brewery, Piglove Brewing Co, Wakefield Gin, Libations Rum and lots more.
And what’s even better is that they’re dog friendly! You can find lots of adorable pups inside Wapentake and enjoy a cosy few hours with your fluffy pals.
