Lil Dix

Lil is one of Leeds’ most well-known food and lifestyle bloggers, writing as ‘Whip Until Fluffy’. She is also a director of Leeds Indie Food, a citywide festival celebrating the incredible independent food and drink scene in the city.

If you want the lowdown on where to get the best grub in Leeds, Lil is your girl.

I moved to Leeds because my husband (then boyfriend) was studying here. I’d finished uni in London and didn’t know what I wanted to do with my career. I took the leap and moved up, knowing what a vibrant place it was. I’ve been here for six years now and I’m pretty sure I’m never leaving.

Meanwood is the new foodie hub. Alfred Bar is repping great drinks, and real culinary treasures are popping up all over – everything from HanaMatsuri (sushi) to Zucco (Italian small plates), the Hungry Bear and now Tandem, serving coffee and light bites.

Not to toot my own horn but the first ever Leeds Indie Food festival in 2015 was pretty mega for me. There’s so much talent in the city and to see everyone come together and celebrate the food and drink scene with creative, collaborative events was awesome – and now it happens every year!

1. Manjit’s Kitchen in Kirkgate Market – I’ve been a fan of Manjit’s food for years and now she has a permanent home. If you haven’t had her Chilli Paneer Wrap, you haven’t lived!
2. Turks Head – a ‘hidden’ bar in an alley of Briggate. Interesting cocktails, chilled atmosphere and lovely staff.
3. Colours May Vary – a little shop in Munro House filled with little gems. Everything from weird magazines to ceramics and jewellery.
4. The Reliance – my vote for best food in the city.
5. Leeds Print Workshop – a cool printing cooperative who run workshops and offer their space up to members to get creative in.

Delicious. Vibrant. Surprising.

I can’t! It’s totally unique, the people here are like no others.

There’s always something new to do, see or taste, and it’s always within reach. The city centre is compact, and there’s cool stuff going on in the suburbs too. Quick train rides will take you to beautiful spots like Saltaire and Otley, and there are so many talented people working really hard and creating amazing, unique stuff.

Brunch at Ox Club on Saturday morning, I’ll have the Korean Fried Chicken. A little shopping in Thorntons Arcade (OK Comics, Tall Boys, Stitch Up) followed by a Flat White at Laynes Espresso. After that it’s a whizz around Leeds City Museum with my kids, then I’m off out for dinner – okra fries and a Vada Pav at Bundobust, washed down with a Mumbai Mule. A drink or two at Turks Head, before heading to the roof terrace at Headrow House. Sunday is a big lunch at The Reliance with a sticky toffee pudding and a strong mug of tea. The afternoon is spent at Hyde Park Picture House for a double feature.