The Belgrave

It had only recently come to my attention that a brand spanking new bar had opened in the space formerly occupied by the Leeds pool bar (Rileys?) and having failed to arrive early enough before close the previous week we made sure that we arrived in time this Friday just gone.
The Belgrave is its name and it looks to be a fairly promising venue once it gets into full swing. The large glass window at the front houses a small cut off area, a bit of a fish bowl space with chairs and a table, and on ascending the stairs inside you enter into the large main room with a long bar to the right hand side.
The décor, aside from gleaming with newness, is pretty funky. Along the left wall are leather cushioned booths, with an American feel, leaving the main space open and free with a few two-​seater mini tables along the centre. The light fixtures above the bar have top hats for lamp shades, which is a really nice touch, and the glass work behind the bar lists the extended and dedicated cocktail menu. The vinyl wall paper detail is also pretty cool, with pop-​art esque imagery, reminiscent of Nation and The Hop. It all speaks of good things to me.
Whilst it was late on, and so rather empty, when we arrived it certainly feels like the atmosphere will get going once the bar makes itself known in Leeds. Notably, the staff are excellent. I had a fantastic chat with the doorman, one of the friendliest I’ve met in Leeds, which really makes a difference on first impressions. Further to that the bar staff were all lovely and considerably patient since we were those last annoying stragglers to finish our drinks!
Price wise it seems in line with most in Leeds and in terms of selection, although real ale is missing from the taps (not unusual for a bar, nor am I complaining), there was a good number of exciting bottles to choose from. My memory is sieve-​like at the best of times but I’m certain I spotted Leffe and Früli in the mix which is fabulous and worlds apart from a rainbow of alcopops.
This bar is certainly one to check out and seems set for success. I’m looking forward to my next visit!