Found on the third floor in Victoria Gate, Uyare offers something a little different from the Leeds dining scene.
Known for its Keralan dishes and elevated rooftop setting, Uyare combines South Indian flavours with a contemporary City Centre experience. With its striking 360 degree bar, panoramic views and sophisticated decor, it has quickly positioned itself as a great destination for both dining and drinks in the heart of the City.
The evening began on a high note, with guests welcomed warmly by attentive staff, who offered a drink in hand. The Spring Social centered around connection – a gathering that sparked conversation – alongside a selection of their Keralan canapes and crafted cocktails, subtly encapsulating exactly what Uyare is all about. The evening was soundtracked by well-chosen music, giving the space a lively feel while still leaving room for conversation amongst the many in attendance.
Some of the standout bites to me included their spiced chicken, cooked to perfection with a balanced heat per bite, as well as the lightly battered cod, crisp on the outside and delicate within. These dishes offered a glimpse of the broader menu, hinting at the variety of choices and flavours available for a full dining experience, with their regular menu spanning a mix of vegetable-based curries, meaty options and an extensive choice of seafood.
The space itself deserves recognition, with its expansive central bar surrounded by sleek finishes that immediately draw attention. The rooftop terrace offers impressive views across the City skyline and suits an evening of food just as easily as a casual drink with friends. The combination of indoor elegance and open air space gives Uyare a versatility that sets it apart from other restaurants in Leeds.
Alongside the food, the drinks menu played a key role in shaping the evening. Uyare’s cocktail list is notably creative, as it leans into flavours that are both fresh and distinctive, adding perfectly to what they already have going on.
I opted for their guava based cocktail, definitely something you don’t often come across, which quickly proved to be another highlight besides the small bites. The evening showcased the bar’s focus on more refined and considered cocktails that go beyond the usual classics. An honourable mention also goes to the avocado-based cocktail: it was rich, thick and creamy, also something entirely different in both texture and flavour. Combined with a wide selection of wines, spirits and craft beers, the bar caters to a broad range of tastes, on top of maintaining a clear sense of identity and individuality.
For distinctive cocktails with a view, or a deeper dive into its flavour-packed menu, Uyare has firmly established itself within the City’s dining scene. After this visit, it’s clear there’s plenty more to discover and I’ll be sure to do so soon.
@uyare.leeds
