The Union Coffee House — Restaurant in Leeds

Tasked with taking me on a date in Leeds, my boyfriend knew he had to factor in the Union Coffee House. Having accidentally stumbled across it one day, he'd known immediately it would be my sort of place. And boy, did he earn brownie points as a result.

There is a plague of coffee shops descending on the UK; but not all are created equal. The ability to create the perfect flat white is an excellent starting point (and happily that is no problem here), but for me it's not the be-all and end-all. I want a coffee shop with character, personality, warmth, comfortable seating, and if it's got an ever-changing decor then so much the better. Yup, the Union Coffee Shop scores on every single point.

I didn't know anything about this place when I walked in the door but was immediately drawn to the books lining the entire length of the bar area. The owner (I presume) explained that it had been inspired by a Danish cafe his wife had seen online; but since everything in the shop is for sale, they'd started selling the books too, and over a hundred had gone since they installed it. Everything is for sale?!? Yes, everything! Even the furniture! And all for very reasonable prices. In fact, my boyfriend said that in the very few intervening weeks between his initial visit and this one, all of the chairs had changed. I'd dearly like to see somebody walk in for a cappuccino and walk out with chaise longue under their arm, but perhaps they offer a delivery service... I'm not sure! I do know that I saw a very pretty inlaid stool for just £20 but knowing that we had several subsequent destinations on the date, I didn't feel I could really buy it at that precise moment. I do wonder how many people spot items they'd love to own but are unable to make an impulse purchase because they're en route somewhere else.

Add to this the interesting history of the shop - it used to be a tailors, and the fabric remnants abound in various upcycled pieces - plus the great friendliness of the talented baristas, and the free wifi, and it's definitely a place to return on a regular basis.

I'll certainly be back; both for the coffee, and to see if that lovely little stool is still...

I really enjoyed being here - sadly I could only spare half an hour and told the staff member this - he didn't mind. Everything was most timely, most friendly, the crusty baguette, crisps, salad, hot chocolate were all delicious and came as a sort of "meal deal". Would I come here again ... sadly I live in Lincoln so it is unlikely. Would I like to come again - oh yes. Big smiles, warm welcome, friendly conversation, prompt service, lots of other customers who added to the very positive atmosphere. Looking round, there wasn't anyone there I wouldn't like to know better. I'm used to being stared at (well I do dress strangely) and it was lovely to be somewhere where one was a welcome customer. Also this is the only place I every been where there is bunting in the toilets! The décor is great, whopping great banana plants (I guess they are fake) and retro cups, plates etc - nothing matching - much from 50s to 70s so (as I'm getting ancient) it was interesting to see patterns that had belonged to my grandmother and various people who have now gone the way of all flesh. Thank you Union Coffee House - you made a difficult and unpleasant day memorable for all the...

I came across the Union Cafe on my way to the hospital this morning and I made the decision to go back and have lunch there. The cafe is away from the hustle and bustle of the centre, but still within easy walking distance of the shops and the station. It is perfectly located for dining near to the hospital, art gallery, town hall and library. It’s a gorgeous cafe, full of vintage furniture and shelves stuffed with books. It has a homely feel, with a ‘secret garden’ for days filled with sunshine. The food was absolutely delicious. I had a three bean chilli soup with grilled cheese toasties on the side. The soup was vegan, and I had the option of having vegan cheese too. In fact, their vegan selection was fantastic. I finished off my lunch with an Earl Grey tea and the most scrumptious giant peanut butter and chocolate cookie. The staff were so friendly and chatty. I was eating alone and I felt very welcome. I mentioned going back with my children and they were extremely welcoming about the idea. Forget the chain cafes in the centre, and walk 5 mins to this one and enjoy a truly unique experience at this...