Leeds bars collaborate to reveal plans for city's "largest outdoor drinking area"

A group of Yorkshire hospitality venues have announced plans to create the “largest outdoor drinking area” in Leeds.

Manahatta, MOJO, Verve, Mean Eyed Cat, Roxy Ball Room, Yard & Coop and Liv Bar are taking part in the new venture, which will see a 50m canopy installed over Merrion Street.

The project will launch on 12 April as lockdown measures lift, and was inspired by 2020’s Merrion Street Festival.

The street will have the capacity to seat up to 200 people, with each venue offering a selection of dishes and drinks.

Lisa Morris, co-owner of Yard & Coop, commented: “Merrion street has some of the area’s best party bars and restaurants all now with plenty of outside seating and professional covering, making it one of the largest covered party areas in Leeds.

“Each venue will be showcasing their best drinks, food and good times. This is going to feel like being on holiday in the centre of Leeds - every weekend.”

Martin Wolstencroft from Arc Inspiration, owners of Manhatta, said: “Manahatta is delighted to work with the other bars on Merrion Street to create a unique, fantastic destination for all our customers to come together and celebrate the reopening of the superb hospitality Leeds is famous for.”

Martin Greenhow, managing director of MOJOS, added: “Everyone on Merrion Street is immensely excited to welcome back all our old friends and guests and finally offer some much-needed relief from the house arrest we’ve all had to endure.

“At last, someone else will make you a drink and take care of the cooking!”