Best Specialty Coffee in Leeds
Country: United Kingdom (13 cafés)
Updated February 2026
Leeds offers a variety of specialty coffee options for those exploring the city centre and surrounding areas. You can find quality brews at spots like Laynes Espresso, North Star Coffee Kiosk, and Kapow Thorntons Arcade, or visit CoffeeSynthesis and La Bottega Milanese for a different pace.
Many cafes here are tucked into historic arcades or located near the university districts, reflecting the city's industrial past and modern growth. Locals often grab a quick cup during busy workdays, though you will find plenty of comfortable seating if you prefer to stay for a while.
Cafés
Of 13 cafés, 5 serve filter coffee and 5 have vegan options.
Top rated North Star Coffee Kiosk
Sovereign St, LS1 4BJ Leeds, United Kingdom
North Star Coffee Kiosk is located by the canal near the Leeds train station. This spot serves coffee roasted at their own facility, allowing for a regular rotation of beans. Visitors often mention the friendly staff and the quality of the flat whites and lattes. You can also pick up pastries, sandwiches, and brewing equipment while collecting stamps on a loyalty card. The kiosk has limited outdoor seating available during the summer months.
Fika North Coffee
94 Otley Road, LS6 4BA Leeds, United Kingdom
Fika North is a neighbourhood coffee shop located on Otley Road in Far Headingley. The cafe serves a variety of speciality coffees alongside a menu of toasted bagels and daily pastries. Regulars often praise the quality of the bagels and the friendly service provided by the staff. The space features a Scandinavian-inspired interior with wooden seating, though it can fill up quickly on weekends. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the shop remains open late to offer a selection of cocktails, wine, and beer.
Kapow Thorntons Arcade
15 Thorntons Arcade, LS1 6LQ Leeds, United Kingdom
Kapow is located in Thorntons Arcade and offers a relaxed, homely atmosphere. Visitors often praise the friendly staff and the quality of the coffee, including their batch brew and flat whites. The shop features quirky decor and provides seating across two levels. Please note that there is a no laptops policy in place. The cafe is dog friendly and offers vegan options.
RAW Coffee Roasters
10 Mill Hill, LS1 5DQ Leeds, United Kingdom
RAW Coffee Roasters is a specialty shop near Leeds Train Station featuring in-house roasted beans. The space has a minimalist interior and offers both espresso and filter brewing methods. Visitors often mention the staff is knowledgeable and happy to explain the origin and tasting notes of different beans. The menu includes a variety of pastries and sandwiches, with vegan options available. The cafe is also dog-friendly.
Stage Espresso & Brewbar
41 Great George Street, LS1 3BB Leeds, United Kingdom
Stage Espresso and Brewbar is located on Great George Street in Leeds. The shop serves a rotating selection of single origin beans from roasters such as Echelon, Maude, and Round Hill. Visitors often mention the friendly staff and the variety of pastries available. The space features seating across two levels, including a basement area. It is a dog friendly spot that offers wifi for those looking to work.
Coffee on the crescent
2 The Crescent, LS6 2NW Leeds, United Kingdom
Coffee on the Crescent is a small cafe located in the Headingley area of Leeds. Visitors often mention the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of vegan and gluten-free food options. The menu includes pastries, cakes, and brunch items like smashed avocado. Note that the shop does not allow the use of laptops for work. It is a popular spot that can get busy, so seating may be limited.
Kapow on the Calls
46 The Calls, LS2 7EY Leeds, United Kingdom
Kapow on the Calls is a relaxed coffee shop located in Leeds. They serve coffee roasted locally by Chipp Coffee Co and offer a variety of sandwiches and cakes. The space is laptop friendly and features comfortable sofa seating by the window. Visitors often mention the staff is friendly and welcoming to both people and dogs. You can find both espresso and filter options along with vegan treats.
House Of Koko
Harrogate Road 62, LS74LA Leeds, United Kingdom
House of Koko is a brunch spot located on Central Road in Leeds. The menu features Middle Eastern inspired dishes alongside classic breakfast options like Turkish eggs and steak with potatoes. Regulars often praise the quality of the coffee and the friendly nature of the staff. The space features modern decor with bare brick walls and high ceilings. It is a popular destination that can get quite busy during the day.
La Bottega Milanese
Bond Court 2, LS1 2JZ Leeds, United Kingdom
La Bottega Milanese is a coffee shop located on Bond Court near Leeds station. The cafe serves espresso using beans from Dark Woods and offers a rotating selection of guest roasters. Visitors frequently praise the pastries, focaccia sandwiches, and desserts like tiramisu. The space features a large communal table and outdoor seating, though it can become quite busy and loud during weekends. Staff are consistently described as friendly and welcoming.
Sociable Folk
10 Wellington Place, LS1 4JP Leeds, United Kingdom
Sociable Folk is located at 10 Wellington Place in Leeds. The cafe serves North Star coffee and offers a variety of food including wraps, salads, and cakes. Visitors often mention that the staff is friendly and the menu includes several vegetarian options. The space is popular with local office workers and can get busy during the day.
200 Degrees
31 Bond Street, LS1 5BQ Leeds, United Kingdom
200 Degrees is located on Bond Street in Leeds city centre. The cafe serves espresso-based drinks using their signature Brazilian Love Affair blend. Visitors often mention the friendly staff and the variety of pastries available, including vegan options. The space offers plenty of seating and remains open later than many other local coffee shops.
Laynes Espresso
16 New Station Street, LS1 5DL Leeds, United Kingdom
Laynes Espresso is located on New Station Street, a short walk from Leeds City Station. The shop serves Square Mile coffee alongside a selection of pour-over filter options. Visitors often praise the breakfast menu and the variety of baked goods available throughout the day. The space features seating across two levels, though it fills up quickly during morning hours. Staff are frequently described as friendly and welcoming.
CoffeeSynthesis
Armouries Dr, LS10 1LE Leeds, United Kingdom
CoffeeSynthesis is a converted horsebox serving coffee near the Royal Armouries in Leeds. The owner, Vinny, prepares espresso, filter, and Aeropress coffee for visitors along the canal. Regulars often praise the flat white and the hot chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows. The menu includes vegan options and various baked goods.
Frequently asked questions
Are there good places to get coffee near the train station?
Yes, Laynes Espresso is located just around the corner from Leeds Station and is a common stop for commuters.
Do cafes in Leeds stay open late?
Finding specialty coffee after 5pm can be difficult in the United Kingdom, though some locations like Laynes Espresso do maintain extended hours on weekdays.
Where can I find a quiet spot to relax with a coffee?
North Star Coffee Kiosk offers a tranquil setting by the water at Leeds Dock, away from the immediate city centre buzz.
Can I find vegan milk options in Leeds coffee shops?
Many independent cafes in the city offer non-dairy milk alternatives, though availability and pricing for these options vary by location.
Are there cafes that serve food alongside coffee?
Many shops in our directory, such as House Of Koko or La Bottega Milanese, offer a selection of sweet and savory food items to accompany your drink.
Should I expect to pay with cash or card?
Most specialty coffee shops in Leeds now prefer or exclusively accept card and contactless payments.