Published 29th Jul 2023, 02:00 BST

It was the kind of place you drove through on your way to get somewhere else.

Meanwood Tavern is among a growing number of independent bars, cafes and ale houses that now sit along this stretch of Meanwood Road.

Run by the team behind Whitelock’s, Leeds’s oldest pub, this spacious, glass-fronted corner spot has the feel of a modern community pub combined with an American diner from the 1950s that reminds me of Edward Hopper’s famous Nighthawks painting.

There’s a wide range of beers on draught as well as an intriguing selection of bottles and cans. It’s good to see local breweries, including Northern Monk and Kirkstall Brewery, well represented, and anywhere that has Timothy Taylor’s Landlord on cask gets a thumbs up from me.

The wine list is short, but interesting, and whisky drinkers are well catered for. There’s also a decent selection of non and low alcoholic drinks.

Where they’ve created a real point of difference is with their kitchen which is run by local indie firm Well Oiled, who specialise in Detroit-style pizzas. Using a soft, focaccia-like dough they’re served by the slice or as full pizzas (if your waistline can take it). Either way they’re delicious and perfect when washed down with a cold beer.

There’s a relaxed atmosphere here and you’re as likely to find locals and dog walkers as you are posh supermarket shoppers with their ‘essential’ houmous and avocados. And that’s no bad thing. Variety is the spice of life after all.

Meanwood Tavern, Meanwood, Leeds. LS6 4HQ. Meanwood Tavern

Ratings

Welcome: 3/5

Food: 4/5

Drinks choice: 5/5

Prices: 5/5

Meanwood Tavern, Leeds: Variety is the spice of life for the Yorkshire pub where everyone is welcome