Top 5 Chocolate Spots: Leeds
Hello, Max here! This could be one of the most exciting locations in our visits for the Top 5 Choc Spots. This time we’re heading to the land of the white roses, rolling Yorkshire Dales, and a specialty coffee scene that is not only lifting the quality, but also the impact and sustainability of this industry. We’re in Leeds!
I arrived on Tong Road and was greeted by a smiling Krag, Owner and COO of North Star Coffee Roasters. It was fascinating to hear how such small changes to the processes implemented in the roastey, and the support of local initiatives, had led to such positive impacts on roastery efficiency, as well as sponsorship from the council for equipment upgrades, in particualr, their beautiful Loring roaster.
After a much need needed (and truly deliciously) flat white, made with North Star’s Docks Blend, we were ready to head out into Leeds in Krag’s reliable Mitsubishi Colt. On the list were North Star’s own Docks cafe site and their Kiosk site. But we also drive our to some their top and longest standing customers, including Galleria, Livett’s Wes Anderson-esque kiosk and finally paid a visit to Stu at Bare Coffee, a local legend and all around top bloke.
Galleria - Armley
Located next to the canal in Armley, Galleria’s interiors are as unique and as classy as their offering. Whether squirrelled away in the corner on their large, inviting chairs or gather round one of their central tables tucking into a delicious brunch and hot chocolate with friends. Galleria feels like a place you want to share with your nearest and dearest. For the first stop, we opted for a classic 45% Hot Chocolate, tasting even more delicious when cosied up in the corner.
Drink of choice: 45% Powder Hot Chocolate
Follow @galleria_lds
Livett’s coffee Shop - Leeds
Attached to Leeds’ iconic Wardrobe venue, Livett’s is a grab-and-go spot that could be the most accidentally Wes Anderson cafe that we’ve seen. A perfect place to pause in the morning sun or as a fly by visit to pick up a freeshly baked pastry and Docks blend coffee to go! We were served up a delicious 45% hot chocolate by Ed before moving on.
Drink of choice: 45% Powder Hot Chocolate
Follow @livettscoffeeshop
North Star Coffee Cafe - Leeds Docks
North Stars flagship cafe offers more than exceptional specialty coffee. With a rotating menu and their training Coffee Hub, this is a space for learning, enjoying good food with friends and slowing down your day. Complimented by slick, intentional design and a light box sign anyone would want!
Drink of choice: 65% Dark Chocolate Mocha
Follow @northstarcoffeeshop
north Star Coffee Kiosk
The Kiosk is where you can see North Star’s brand shining through. Everything from the custom powder coated La Marzocco to the green central islands to the pop of colour from their coffee bag wall. We sweetened things up a little with a 55% Milk Hot Chocolate and a bag a pastries to go.
Drink of choice: 55% Milk Hot Chocolate.
Bare Coffee - Headingley
The last stop of the tour, but by no means least was Bare Coffee. The definition of neighbourhood spot, Stu is the smiling, friendly (and loud) face you’d want to see in your local coffee shop — plus you can shop for some of the best organic produce in Leeds.
Drink of choice: 75% Hot Chocolate
Follow @bare_coffee