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    Laynes Espresso

    4.5 (64 reviews)
    InexpensiveCafes
    Closed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Laynes Espresso Photos

    LAYNES ESPRESSO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise

    Recommended Reviews - Laynes Espresso

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    Rick H.

    If you are a coffee drinker and you've not made a daily stop at Laynes Espresso part of your routine, you are missing out. If you are a serious coffee drinker passing through, you must make the short walk around the corner from the train station and stop for a cup. The crew at Laynes aren't just serving up pastries and pouring coffee; they show a genuine understanding of the art and science of coffee brewing. Even more, they happily share their enthusiasm for the craft as well as their knowledge of the bean (check your coaster and learn something about what you're drinking...).

    Merguez (lamb) Sausage Hash. With a side of halloumi. Amazing brunch! Also had an affogato, which I recommend for "dessert."

    Amazing combination. @LaynesEspresso
    Rowena H.

    Picture the situation. You're in town, perhaps just off the train, and you're craving a caffeine fix. It happens, we all know the feeling, right? Long journey, long shopping day, long no-excuse-but-I-love-a-fix day. Well. You could walk on autopilot, as most of us do, mindlessly plodding one foot in front of the other like a brand brainwashed moth towards the *Costa/Starbucks/Nero's light. *Insert identikit icon here. I'm not perfect, I do it too. However, it's little discoveries like this that inspire a tidal wave of action within me, to implore you back to the independents. So, ride that wave right on into Laynes. Fresh from the surf of this encouragement, you'll find a quaint, clean, cool little cafe. Forget the décor for a second. Let your nose lead you to the counter, and just take a breath. Fresh, delicious, aromatic beans of such flavour await you -perhaps don't linger too long. They'll wonder what the hell you're up to. But, take a breath. And let yourself take it all in, let the temptation of the senses begin. Then, order a cappuccino, and my God (wo)man, order the brioche. That life changing combination will have you forever crying tears into your luke-warm-under-done-pithy-weak "coffee" from the inferior cafes. Dried out, day old cake and a milky streak of nothing? I don't think so. Poetry. Coffee as strong as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, as powerful as honesty, and more delicious than nectar. The brioche? I can't even begin to describe. The fantastic chap suggested I dip it into my coffee, and what a winning combination. It was moist, it was gooey, it was bready in the most delightful way- basically, I'm jealous of my past self, since I don't have it right here right now. I want more. More more more. So, I got a bit carried away there. (I've been reading poetry recently.) But, if I'm honest, and frank, the coffee was incredible and the cake was one of the best I've had in Leeds. The chap who runs the place is lovely and welcoming, and would happily advise you on what he offers, should you require a nudge like I did. They offer a range of exciting teas, for those who aren't as bean obsessed, and the space is perfect to sit and take in the world as it wanders by. The cakes are locally sourced, they make their own blend of coffee (as I understand it) and it's utterly worth your pennies. And hey - if it's enough to have me waxing quite so lyrically, here's hoping that's given you the nudge you need to dip in and take a sip. I'm certain you'll be delighted.

    Two flat whites
    Laura F.

    Situated very close to Leeds train station, this is one of the nicest coffee shops i've ever visited. En route to TMBTC for lunch, i stopped by here for a flat white. The coffee shop is very small, but they have the best coffee here. They also have an excellent menu of snacks and sandwiches. Their home-made soups looked and smelled delicious, so next time i'll definitely be trying some of that!!

    A pistachio and raspberry slice that I couldn't resist!
    Huttson L.

    A perfect find to end a day trip Just by the train station, Laynes is the perfect spot to end the day with a fine coffee and a handmade cake. On a grey, misty Autumn day, I had a scrumptious pistachio and raspberry slice alongside my brewed coffee, exactly what I needed to pick me up before jumping on the train again. I can't wait to start my next trip here, with a sandwich or another cake. See you soon, Laynes!

    Latte
    Peter P.

    I can see why there are so many positive reviews for Laynes Espresso. Was quite busy when I got here but was seated and served quite quickly. I had scrambled eggs on organic sourdough with cherry tomatoes, haloumi and bacon. Everything on the plate was superb and the coffee (latte) was very good. Not at all overpriced and the staff were prompt and friendly. Tough to see you having anything but a great experience here.

    Kristine T.

    Being in serious need of a good coffee and breakfast this morning I decided to visit Laynes, as I had already read great things about it. I had a latte, which tasted great and the avocado on sourdough which was amazing! The chilli and lemon seasoning on the avocado gave off great flavour and the perfect level of spicy while the toasted bread complimented the soft avocado brilliantly. On top of that, the atmosphere of the coffee house was great, the staff were friendly and helpful and had smiles on their faces which is always great to start your day with. Overall great place to go and definitely one of those places where you can take a good book or notebook and relax for a few hours.

    Treats right by the front
    Soleil S.

    Within just a few paces from the Leeds train station, you have the perfect start (or end) of your day... a finely crafted coffee whether it be the amazing flat white, pour over, or latte. I came here each morning for a week while in Leeds on business and I could not be happier. I was thinking I would be stuck drinking sludge or the corporate Costa Coffee to kick my day going but with the great yelp reviews, i found this gem. For starters, its so easily located from the station that its damn convenient. It has a decent amount of room so you're never climbing on top of other people to get your drink... all the times I was there, it was never over crowded. They have a fairly quick service considering they were doing precise gram measures of ground beans to water... I also loved how happy to be there and providing a great brew to all patrons. As I mentioned, I had a few cups from here... the pour over is a must do for any coffee lover. I love how they do understand the bean tasting notes and can see if you like it. I did like one particular one over the other and from that next day feedback, they were able to recommend something else I would like. The flat whites are wonderful here... just as good as the ones I had in Sydney Australia. Price wise, this wasn't much more than your usual corner corporate brand... I would definitely take the extra 2 minutes to walk here and grab a perfect brew over the usual suspects of Starbucks, Costa Coffee and others.

    The best coffee in Leeds - superb!
    Mark M.

    Well... reviewing Laynes feels almost pointless; because there is a heck of a lot of love for this place, and it's all totally deserved! Without a doubt the greatest coffee shop in Leeds - hands down. I love the coffee, the look of the place and the impeccable service. Utterly superb!

    Brioche bostok. So good!
    Dominique L.

    Every now and then, I have to venture to Leeds for work. Given that I'm not terribly fond of trains, it's not something that I look forward to. However, ever since I found out about Laynes, and it's proximity to the train station, I've found myself looking forward to my work trips. I'm joking - a little - but I do make the time to go to Laynes every time I have to make this trip, even if the coffee shop is on the other side of the station that I need to get to. So what's good about Laynes? It's certainly one of the best coffee places in Leeds, or so I've been told. I'll be honest and say that I've had better in London. The flat whites I've had here are a little on the milky side for me. Still, they're consistent and the standards are high. Another great thing about this place is that if you're able to get there early in the morning, you can get a bostok - an almond and raspberry brioche - baked by Thierry Dumouchel for a nice, hearty breakfast. I'd tried a number of times to get there early enough to get one and only succeeded last week. Was it worth it? Hell, yeah! I bought a couple more to bring back to London!

    Cake!
    Rebecca D.

    With so many great reviews I think I must just be missing something about Laynes Espresso. Next time I get the chance I'll grab a table (they have extra downstairs), I'll sit in and I'll order some real food. Then I'll update the review. The three stars are for the peanut butter dark chocolate brownie. I mean, obviously that's going to be good - it would be a hard thing to get wrong. Even so, it was somehow better than expected. Even if when I come back I discover that everything else about Laynes Espresso is just fine, I'm sure I'll find myself returning over and over for the brownies. What let them down was the coffee. Rather unfortunate, considering their name. I didn't spot the brand name of the coffee, but I did spot that they were selling bags of the stuff in store so someone must like it. Maybe it was just burnt or something but it was almost undrinkable and I drink a lot of coffee... possibly too much coffee. So, sorry Laynes. Right now, my opinion is that you're "just fine." Hopefully you'll correct me on that next time.

    Brioche and filter coffee :)

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    13 years ago

    Without a doubt the best espresso in Leeds, but there sandwiches and pastries are homemade and well worth a try too.

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    11 years ago

    Not much space, but excellent for espresso drinks and teas, and quite good sandwiches and cakes.

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    Page 2 of 2

    Review Highlights - Laynes Espresso

    Its depth and punch was a perfect contrast to the moist sweetness of the brioche.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

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    Mrs Atha's

    Mrs Atha's

    4.3(36 reviews)
    0.2 miCity Centre, Shopping Quarter
    ££

    Very good restaurant, good food, people quite nice people are working , and food so testread more

    Since moving to Leeds I've been trying to find a good coffee shop to replace my favourite back in…read moreYork. Next stop was Mrs Atha's. Trying to locate Mrs Atha's was not the easiest. The proverbial vulture circling in the sky looking for its prey I eventually located and headed towards. You'd be forgiven for following suite, the outside is painted black to match the shops that surround it. This is a slight downfall from it's location and one I presume they have no control over due the nature of the area. Time to take the plunge, my caffeine levels where dropping rapidly. Upon entering you are greeted with the feeling of entering a cave, dark and sparsely lit. On your right is the coffee station, to your left are the stairs downstairs and in front a selection of eclectic seating. A warm greeting was given and after a short perusal I plumbed for my statuary cappuccino. Now normally it takes about 15 seconds for me to place an order but this never happened. My eyes kept wandering, looking at the delights and my mouth kept watering. I have a weak spot for chocolate and cakes and my knees started to tremble. Laid before was a bevvy of delights for me to try. I had to have a nibble and so I did. Just a quick nibble, a little delight, a chocolate truffle shaped piece of heaven. So I ordered my cappuccino and truffles and was asked to take a seat while my coffee was readied. Unfortunately upstairs was full to the brim so I plumbed for a seat downstairs. That was a shame, upstairs is quaint, quirky and generally original. What a difference to upstairs. Crammed between the entrance to the toilets and a small kitchen area are a few seats/tables, the highlight being an old school desk. Not the atmosphere I thought it would be. While talking to the friendly staff member while she cooked was nice it's not the type of area I really want to sit and enjoy a coffee. I think if I come back I'll make sure I get a seat upstairs. My coffee arrived after about 5 minutes along with my truffles and I sat back to do some work and enjoy my caffeine fix. I know there are people that like a drink as hot at the inside of a volcano and I know there are those that like to tip it down their throats but me, I like to sip on it over a period of 30 minutes to enjoy the full potential of the ground beans. This could not happen with this coffee. By the time 5 minutes had reached my coffee was on the verge of the next Ice Age. Not good. Don't get me wrong, it's a damn fine coffee, not as good as La Bottega/Laynes but damn good non the less. So in a nut shell, the coffee was good (if a little too cold), the downstairs is not good, the truffles AMAZING and the service good indeed. I will return if only to try more chocolaty delights.

    Photos
    Mrs Atha's - If you are in Leeds and into coffee you have to go to Mrs Athas. They have a #slayer and it makes the best coffee in #Yorkshire.

    If you are in Leeds and into coffee you have to go to Mrs Athas. They have a #slayer and it makes the best coffee in #Yorkshire.

    Mrs Atha's - Maple pancakes

    Maple pancakes

    Mrs Atha's - Bliss

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    Bliss

    Art's

    Art's

    4.2(25 reviews)
    0.2 miThe Calls, City Centre, Shopping Quarter
    ££

    Arts is one of the rare places amongst the Calls that is better by day than it is by night…read more As you'd expect from a place namely so, there is always plenty of art on the wall to admire and discuss as if you know what you're talking about as you eat or drink or both. I'd recommend that you just drink as the food is nothing special although it likes to think it is, and because of this, the prices are a little bit steep. The menu is extensive and classy however, and the place is always full of people enjoying a midday light lunch - I just don't really rate the food. Drinking is a different matter - they do real fair trade coffees that never fail to hit the spot, and if you're after something slightly stronger, they have impressive beer and wine menus - the Weston's organic cider is definitely the pick of the bunch...but be warned, it's stronger than you think it is.

    People seem to spell this place in a variety of ways. According to the website title there's an…read moreapostrophe (i.e. it belongs to Art) - Art's café. However, for the rest of the site the apostrophe is dropped (I presume for either convenience or to create a point for discussion such as here). These details are important! :) Whatever the name, this lovely restaurant is a little slice of Paris right in the heart of Leeds. As indicated in my other restaurant reviews it follows in the proud tradition of Leeds having some of its best restaurants in unusual locations. It's certainly the best thing going in that part of town. Where do I start? From the moment you walk in you feel relaxed by the bohemian crowd and inspired by the art work. The food is some of the best in Leeds. On this occasion, I choose the haddock in beer batter and my dining partner had the Sunday roast. We were not disappointed. Whatever the dish, it is usually cooked well with attention to detail and presentation. Art's café is also a great place for a glass of wine or coffee, but it has limited space so don't expect to always get a table. For meals it's best to book. This is not a restaurant for the budget conscious, but neither is it overly extravagant. And anything that transfers me from Leeds to my favourite European city in an instant has to be worth every penny.

    Photos
    Art's
    Art's
    Art's

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    Out of the Woods

    Out of the Woods

    4.7(6 reviews)
    0.2 miHolbeck Urban Village, City Centre
    ££

    Out of the Woods is my local sandwich shop & all round fab independent cafe (yes, I am that lucky!)…read moreand I'm telling you, they do a mean sandwich. They also do lots of other goodness that you're bound to love. I can be a fussy eater. I don't do rocket, I've only just tried brie, I'm a bit strange about chutneys but the salami, goats cheese and mango chutney sandwich is one of the best sandwiches I've had. Even the rocket in it tastes nice. If its breakfast you're looking for, the choice ranges from porridge & granola to pastries and fruit. The breakfast smoothie is one of the best I've ever had. Seriously good. On top of all that, you can even buy Yorkshire Crisps and Lottie Shaw's parkin!! YES! Seriously though, this is a good place, it isn't too pricey and the menu is varied. Plus, they won't judge you. I went in in PJs once when I was unwell & they didn't bat an eyelid! Nice peeps!

    Out Of The Woods is an awesome little coffee shop. I've never visited their original store on Water…read moreLane but the Granary Wharf place is a beauty. Really nice food (I recommend the ginger and cinnamon oatmeal cookies!), very good coffee and a really, really nice atmosphere. The place is decked out perfectly, really rustic yet somehow super modern. Really great place to visit. I'm just hoping they open another store closer to my place of work - hows about it guys? =)

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    Out of the Woods
    Out of the Woods - My favourite Out of the Woods lunch!

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    My favourite Out of the Woods lunch!

    Riveresque

    Riveresque

    3.6(20 reviews)
    0.2 miCity Centre
    £

    I was trying to come up with one thing that I disliked about Riveresque... and I failed miserably…read more A room with a view, friendly staff, a menu as long as The Bible*, and one of the most well-executed chilli-'n'-cheese jacket potatoes I've ever had the misfortune of consuming... all in one place? That spells 'w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l' to me. Considering that one can have all of the above (with jalapeños, no less!) for roughly £5, there's quite simply no room for complaints. --- * Okay, give or take a few thousand pages, but who's counting?

    I confess, I once had a fairly serious Riveresque addiction. After going through cold turkey…read morefollowing a brief move away from Leeds, I now limit myself to weekly visits! In essence, Riveresque is a better class of greasy spoon, the place in the centre of town too be able to order a Full English Breakfast (£5.25) or a Ham and Mushroom Omelette (£3.95). There are healthier options on offer, some gorgeous salads and soups sit alongside the tempting daily specials and an endless range of sandwiches. My particular favourite is the hot Cajun Chicken and Sour Cream wrap (£1.90). It is the ideal place to pick up a tasty and unfussy lunch, without paying excessive prices. Just South of New Briggate, Riveresque is conveniently located whether you are in the city centre, or having a meander around the picturesque canal area - a lovely view to enjoy a sandwich to go.

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    Riveresque
    Riveresque
    Riveresque

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    The 212 Cafe & Bar

    The 212 Cafe & Bar

    4.5(2 reviews)
    0.3 miBrewery Wharf, City Centre
    ££

    All right, calm down. I know I like to doll out the stars, but this. I was so impressed with this…read moreplace! Let's get this in order so you can feel the vibe: Decor: Ultra cool. Love the art work, the graffiti style, the quirky furnishings and so on. You walk in and you know you've come to a place where even the littlest things have been considered -- a great thing. Staff: every person I interacted with was cool and friendly, from the bar to the barbecue (yes -- barbecue; I'll get to that!). Drinks: Although I only had prosecco and a g&t, there's more to explore. I need to get back and try out the cocktails, as this isn't your standard Carling joint. Food: Okay, so I've only eaten here the once, but I love what they're doing. Croissants for breakfast/late brunch snacks was an immediate bonus. And on weekends (Saturdays? Sundays?) if it's sunny, they crack out the barbecue! They've got a fab little outdoor seating bit where they get the grill going on the patio. I was a late comer, so they just about had lamb burgers left, but it was fab. Well cooked and filled with tzatziki. Wish the bun had been fresher, but other than that, it was great. All told, this place seems pretty faultless. An awesomely cool new (ish) bar down Brewery Wharf -- finally and alternative to the blerg of Oracle. Clientele seem miles apart from that place too. Phew!

    Great idea for a place, they literally do everything; breakfast, lunch then turn into a full on bar…read morewith cocktails and all. Outdoor seating that gets the sun on a morning and early afternoon. Good quality food on a limited menu so you know the ingredients are fresh. Even comes with a resident dog who just mooches around saying hi to everyone. Coffee that can compete with all the high quality cafes in Leeds city centre. Unfortunately just not enough staff on so we had to wait a long time for food. If they can get the staff levels right this place could be a 5 star joint.

    Photos
    The 212 Cafe & Bar
    The 212 Cafe & Bar
    The 212 Cafe & Bar

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    Laynes Espresso - cafes - Updated May 2026

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