Social — Restaurant in Leeds

The Social is an outpost of the Brudenell Social Club, Leeds's most important music venue and retains something of the atmosphere of its parent establishment. Last time I was there the playlist included tracks by the Modern Lovers, Sonic Youth, and the Velvet Underground. The bar is large and airy, the tables well spaced out and there is a beer garden at the rear. Furnishings and decor are minimalist. Ordering was via an app and drinks were delivered to the table. Along with staples such as lager and cider, Kirkstall Brewery's Virtuous IPA was on tap at a reasonable price and there was a good selection of bottles and cans for those with particular tastes. Personally, I feel more comfortable here than in most bars in the city centre, but I guess it would be easy to feel out of place if you never had any inclinations...

Good little bar, although seating was difficult to find, but we found a spot at the side of the bar. Vast array of drinks to pick from, from your ales and beers to your cocktails. They do allow groups, but you do need to behave yourself. One group was egging someone in their group to down a pint and the barman/security (cant remember which) asked them to keep it down. I'll leave it to you whether or not that's good or bad, but given the place you're in, it's probably not suited for lairy behaviour, go somewhere else if that's how you see...

Dismal afternoon turned sunny:

There's a very comfortable feel here. A warm, genuine, welcome is a great thing in the heart of this Northern city. I had an exceptionally good hot toddy to start. The rest of the drinks were very well put together too.

The hospitality was unrivalled. I freely admit to being a difficult customer, so to leave charmed, is quite special.

The range, quality and service are all...