Bowery Visual Arts — Restaurant in Leeds

Wow, where do I even start? I see this will be your 200th review therefore this is my mission to give you your best review so far!

So I discovered the Bowery during lockdown, a family run cafe with lovely staff. It has a hidden gallery upstairs, along with a nice little sitting area outside. Their coffee is lovely, All Press coffee and also a range of syrups to spice things up (I love their chilli blend especially). They stock a good range of Tony’s Chocolonely anti slavery chocolate from the Netherlands, if you fancy a change from their caramel or dark chocolate bars stocked in local supermarkets. They sell artwork, including by graduates, they put on workshops. Here’s a thing! So there weren’t many events happening in November, but I booked a coffee training course with my best friend for fun and to try something new. Not only was it informative, well priced (some places charge £100 per ticket), but it also landed me my first permanent full time job at another coffee house. So I have a lot to thank the Bowery for. It is absolutely worth that bit extra money and that tiny extra walk past Costa and Neros, a true investment! Support local artists and local businesses ☕️ my only wish is that sometimes you stayed open a little later so that I saw a little...

Stopped by this coffee shop while in the area, as it looked like a nice spot to take a quick break. It was pretty busy when we arrived, which is usually a good sign, but unfortunately the service was quite slow—took around 10 minutes just to be acknowledged, and it didn’t feel like there was much urgency from the staff.

I asked for a specific drink, and while they didn’t have it, the staff member kindly suggested something similar. I appreciated the recommendation, but when the drink arrived (after another 15 minutes), it really wasn’t close to what I was expecting. Bit of a letdown, and there was no apology or explanation for the long wait either.

The atmosphere inside was cozy enough, though there was a slightly musky smell hanging in the air—not sure if that was just because of the rainy weather outside or something else.

All in all, it might’ve just been an off day, but between the slow service and mix-up with the drink, the visit didn’t quite hit the mark for us. Hopefully better...

We are so lucky to have an independent coffee shop frequented by all ages, locals, parents, students, regulars, newcomers, all together. The great coffee keeps people coming back, but there is so much more than that. There is a lovely atmosphere of positivity and creativity, there is great care taken with all the food and drink which is exceptionally good, and there are always wonderful gifts and art to look at. The little garden is an absolute hidden gem and a peaceful sanctuary on the bustling Otley Road, and inside there are workspaces and cosy corners. All the sandwiches and sweet treats are incredible but the carrot cake and almond croissants are heavenly. Ged and Sandra have clearly worked so hard to create this amazing place that really captures the eclectic spirit...