Working 9-5 is a tough way to make a living (just ask Dolly Parton) and studies show we’re making it even harder by eating lunch at our desks. In the olden days, going out for long lunches was quite often a given, and we think it’s time to bring it back. While we’re not advocating downing a bottle of wine with your starter, (but we won’t judge if you do) we do think it’s time to start some mid-day indulging. So we’ve put together a list of the best places to eat lunch in Leeds. Just don’t fall asleep at your desk and blame us, ok?
MEATliquor
cuisinesBurger Joint, American
places to eat lunch in leeds

Meat and liquor? We promise we’re not building your dreams just to watch them shatter. MEATliquor serves up amazing dishes like the Green Chilli burger served with spicy chilli butter, red onions and pickles, and the Tower Block Burger which comes with hash brown (really), jalapenos, and Russian dressing. If you’re out with the meat-free gang, this unlikely spot has a great vegan and veggie menu, with halloumi burgers and black bean chilli fries, sure to keep everyone happy.

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This venue is currently not accepting online reservations through Dish Cult. 

If you’re looking for somewhere a bit more rhinestone and glitter than scuffed jeans and cowboy boots, Chaophraya might just be for you. Perfect if you’re entertaining work colleagues, or just fancy having a “fancy Friday”, this Thai restaurant will hit the right spots. Their Pad Thai is to die for and the ResDiary team is huge fans of their traditional Thai green curry. If you’re pushing the boat out, Chaophraya has a great cocktail and mockail menu, making it a great place to eat lunch in Leeds.

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This venue is currently not accepting online reservations through Dish Cult. 

All of these restaurants sounding a bit much for you? Don’t worry, Ambiente Tapas lets you choose exactly how much you want to order with their tasty small plate-based menus. With dishes from just £3.50, it’s a great place to head for some lunch in Leeds. The Wheel of Pintxos comes highly recommended, with a selection of fish, cheese, and ham, with bread and olives giving you a little taste of everything. If you’re pushing the boat out, there’s a full tapas menu with your favourites like calamari, patatas bravas, and croquettes to keep you full all day. Go on, that spreadsheet can wait til tomorrow.

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Indian Tiffin Room
cuisinesIndian, Vegetarian Friendly
places to eat lunch in leeds

Is the guy who sits next to you driving you up the wall? Head down to Indian Tiffin Room and make sure his afternoon is filled with the aroma of chili, garlic, and amazing spices; way better payback than muttering under your breath. If you’re looking for places to eat lunch in Leeds, it doesn’t come much tastier than this Indian restaurant. They serve a range of curries from the classic masala or exotic Dal Makhani (black lentils and kidney beans in a creamy sauce), which you can wash down with their authentic lassis, chais, or even a tasty Asian beer.

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If you’re looking for something a bit more “lunchey”, then can we suggest Art’s Cafe? With their dedicated lunch menu, you can choose from lighter dishes or more hearty mains. The “lunch plates” section lets you choose from a veggie, vegan, fish, or Yorkshire plate which has a local pork pie, Yorkshire blue cheese, pickles, and chutney. Much more than just a great eatery though, these guys also have art exhibitions running on a six-week cycle, letting you check out the local talent (art talent, guys!) on the walls.

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This venue is currently not accepting online reservations through Dish Cult. 

Yes, there’s two Thai restaurants on our list of best places to eat lunch in Leeds. We might just be a little bit Thai obsessed, we admit it. But you’ll see why when you head to Thai Edge. Like Chaophraya, these guys are pretty upmarket, with a stunning, colourful dining room, and innovative dishes that will get your mouth watering. They serve a premium business lunch and an express lunch menu where two courses are just £9.50. And it’s no short menu with just a couple of choices on it, you can have a choice of curries, stir fries, or noodles, and there’s over 10 starters to pore over.

missing
This venue is currently not accepting online reservations through Dish Cult. 
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