Stone Green Social, Leeds: The cozy Yorkshire neighbourhood bar which stands out from the crowd
Recent figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), showing that 161 pubs had closed in the first three months of this year across England, Scotland and Wales, make for sobering reading.
These worrying numbers reflect the many well-documented challenges facing the hospitality sector in the UK, but it’s not all doom and gloom.
Bars and pubs are woven into the fabric of our way of life and when they’re rooted in their local community, like Stone Green Social, they can engender a loyal following.
This cozy neighbourhood bar in Meanwood, a popular Leeds suburb, opened last year against this turbulent backdrop, and whenever I’ve popped in for a drink there’s always been a warm welcome and usually a lively atmosphere – the last time I was here on a midweek lunchtime they were doing a brisk trade, which is always a good sign.
I’m a big fan of Meanwood, as regular readers will no doubt be aware.
I admire the independent spirit that characterises the bars, cafes and restaurants here – like Stone Green Social.
From the plastic roof covering the outside decking to the metal stools and wooden benches, there’s an unpretentious, DIY feel to the outside space, which is mirrored inside where the utilitarian approach continues.
Beer fans are well catered for, with an impressive range on draught and tap, including the likes of Northern Monk’s Great Northern Lager, A Little Faith (a fruity hazy session IPA) and Beyond (a new world-style IPA with a bit of welly).
There are other intriguing choices including Bosun’s Down the Hatch blonde ale and Iford’s Wild Juice cider, alongside a good selection of bottles and cans, and a decent-looking wine list.
The suitably indie-inspired playlists sit well and what also makes this place stand out from the crowd is the attractive basement, complete with free-to-use pool table, darts and board games.
Not only is it a great way of bringing people together when the weather’s bobbins, it taps into our collective nostalgia and reminds us why our pubs really do still matter.
Welcome 5/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Drinks choice 4/5
Prices 4/5
Stone Green Social, 3 Stonegate Road, Meanwood, Leeds. LS6 4HZ.