Leeds has its fair share of hyped up restaurants – you know the type, a long list of burgers and oh so Instagrammable interiors, but behind these are a host of restaurants loved by locals, who do food seriously well. Avoid the usual haunts and get these on your list of places to eat:

For Japanese: Fuji Hiro

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What: A no frills, unpretentious Japanese restaurant that can be easy to miss from the outside. Don’t be put off by its traditional canteen style interior, this place has some of the best Asian food Leeds has to offer. A true hidden gem, it lets the food do the talking and keeps people returning time after time.

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Why: Fuji Hiro do seriously good (and extremely reasonably priced – think around £8 a dish) Japanese food including all favourites such as katsu curry, gyoza and a variety of noodle dishes. With speedy service, it’s a great option for grabbing a quick bite after work.

Where: 45 Wade Lane, Leeds, LS2 8NJ

For Italian: Livin Italy

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What: Situated a 5 minute walk from the city centre, you’re unlikely to stumble across this Italian eatery by accident but it is most definitely worth the trip.  Serving up a mixture of Italian classics and dishes with a twist, a setting in the atmospheric railway arches and true Italian passion make this a great place to eat for any occasion.

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Why: They serve burrata, a rare delicacy when it comes to Leeds. You can’t go wrong with their interesting range of pizzas, and when you leave make sure you check their well stocked deli for any meat and cheese you might want to take away.

Where: Granary Wharf, Little Neville St, Leeds LS1 4BR

For Brunch: LS6 Café

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What: If you’re in Leeds for the weekend and are looking for the city’s best brunch, it’s definitely worth escaping the city centre and heading to LS6 Café.  A café with a home from home feel, it’s a great place to wile away a few spare hours.

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Why: There’s no better way to start a weekend than with a big pile of beautifully presented food, and LS6’s huevos rancheros ticks every single box, from the spiced chorizo to the creamy avocado. Prefer something a bit more traditional? Their range of benedicts has something for everyone and never disappoints.

Where:  16 Headingley Ln, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS6 2AS

For Indian Cuisine: Prashad

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What: The parent behind the food at city centre favourite Bundobust, Prashad sits on the Leeds/Bradford border and serves up first class vegetarian Indian food that will make your local takeaway pale in comparison.

Prashad

Why: Vegetarian or meat eater, the flavor packed food at Prashad will wow anyone. Whilst the range of main meals are fantastic without any complaints, the starters are where Prashad really shine, so start with a tasting platter to try the very best in Indian snacks. The chaat is not to be missed, and anything involving paneer is always good shout.

Where: 137 Whitehall Road Drighlington, BD11 1AT

For Cocoa: Roast and Conch

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What: When it comes to a special meal out, you might not be aware that Leeds is home to Roast and Conch, specialist cocoa restaurant by the one and only Hotel Chocolat. Great if you have something to celebrate, or just fancy a bit of indulgence.

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Why: Sample the many ways Roast and Conch manage incorporate cocoa into their dishes, from the incredible white chocolate mash to the mac ‘n’ cheese pie, cleverly created with cocoa nib pastry. Make the most of their innovative dishes, but make sure you save room for dessert – sweet things are what they’re known for after all!

Where: 55 Boar Ln, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 5EL