The Soap Factory arrives in Leeds

The Soap Factory, Leeds
The Soap Factory, Leeds

A restaurant and cocktail bar, that aims to take inspiration from the area’s history, has opened in Leeds city centre.

The Soap Factory, which is located on Whitehall Quay, aims to take inspiration from the industrial heritage of the area. The original Soap Factory was located just a stone’s throw from Whitehall Quay and the new venue, from décor to menu choices, has been inspired by the Soap Works’ rich history and entrepreneur Joseph Watson, otherwise known as local legend Soapy Joe.

The Soap Factory, Leeds

The Soap Factory, Leeds

The venue, which is open from 8am until 12am daily, is aiming to be a popular location for both coffee and lunch, right through to cocktails on an evening. The menu is featuring delicacies from a range of local suppliers. Ludovic Verzi, general manager at The Soap Factory, said: “In terms of local suppliers, Cryer & Stott is our cheesemonger and they also produce the Grandad John’s Pork Pie which features on our menu.

“Sykes House Farm, our local meat supplier from Wetherby, provides us with Doreen’s black pudding for our Yorkie Egg dish and meat for both of our homemade burgers Soapy Joe and Joe’s Classic. Sykes House Farm also supply beef brisket which is one of the ingredients for our Posh Pot Noodles and Popover Puds dishes.”

The menu is also set to offer visitors a British menu with a twist. The head chef, Richard Banks, has put starters including Pickin’ Lickin’ Chicken Wings, Tempura Prawns and Pulled Ham Bonbons on the menu. Mains include a Steak Bomb with caramelised onions and mustard mayo on a ciabatta, a range of salads and sides including Curried Cowboy Beans and Sweet Potato Fries.

There is also a wide range of beers, hand-picked wines and spirits available to try, as well as a selection of cocktails.

The Soap Factory, Leeds

The Soap Factory, Leeds

Ludovic believes that the atmosphere and décor of the venue offers something that other places in the area don’t. He said: “The atmosphere, décor and inspired menu make it a must-see. The interior has been designed as a chic, minimalist and open environment. The large glass panels make way for an abundance of natural light during the day, whilst in the evening the glowing fire offers a warm and inviting ambience.

“We hope that The Soap Factory becomes the ideal hotspot for locals and those visiting Leeds. We believe it is the perfect place to pop in mid-week and have lunch with colleagues, or somewhere for the local community to come on a Saturday night.

“It’s a trendy, design-led cocktail lounge and eatery, and a unique venue in Whitehall Quay. We want everyone to enjoy the food and drink offerings, as well as the inspired décor.”

The Soap Factory is open from 8am until 12am daily.

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