News.
LEEDS FAVOURITE, THE CUT & CRAFT, ANNOUNCES FURTHER EXPANSION PLANS THIS SPRING FOLLOWING MAJOR REFURBISHMENT IN YORK
19th February 2026
THE SOPHISTICATED STEAK & CHAMPAGNE RESTAURANT IS TO EXTEND THE BRAND OFFERING WITH THE CURATION OF A DESTINATION BAR AND ELEVATED PRIVATE DINING SPACES
Stylish all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its existing site in Leeds, investing £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar & lounge, as well as, private spaces, catering to sophisticated private dining experiences.
The Cut & Craft Leeds, which is located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension, celebrates the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley – a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
The Grade II-listed building’s ornate features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar remains, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms. The extension, due for competition in late spring 2026, will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for 370 covers, with the influence of Hartley’s Titanic journey inspiring the interiors.
The Cut & Craft’s reputation for glamour and sophistication will be injected into the space, celebrating the beauty and history of Collinson’s Cafe, formerly two spaces, now as one.
In acknowledgment of the city’s need for premium late-night entertainment experiences, the space will be complete with a dedicated stage, with Hartley’s legacy inspiring a programme of weekly live musicians.
And responding directly to years of customer demand for luxury private dining, the two private spaces, with capacity for 16 and 24 covers (40 combined with a sliding door) now offer stylish experiences with the flexibility to cater for special get-togethers, large party events and corporate bookings.
With premium dining at the forefront of The Cut & Craft experience, the new space also includes training rooms, offices, and a kitchen extension, which enables the brand to continue celebrating great local ingredients with its existing menu, with the addition of elevated bar snacks and exclusive private dining menus.
And in celebration of the venue’s original roots as a tea room, an opulent quintessentially British Afternoon Tea will be served with decadent cakes and scones, baked freshly in house, by head pastry chef, Isabella Tokarski-Pudlo. Guests can expect the likes of giant raspberry macaroons, brownies and cakes, in addition to a variety of Champagne variations and tea.
Decor is decadent, with musical heritage and Belle Époque references throughout, evoking a refined and luxurious atmosphere. Complemented with hallmark features of The Cut & Craft brand, including deep blue furnishing details, premium brushed metalwork and a rich, heritage-infused palette that elevates the guest experience.
Access to the original Collinson’s Cafe balcony, is integrated within the new space, allowing The Cut & Craft to honour and reinterpret musical history into the design.
With a focus on world-class cocktails, opulent Champagne experiences, and premium dining, the extension builds on everything guests love about The Cut & Craft, now with the addition of stylish late night experiences filled with live music and socialising.
The Cut & Craft Leeds will continue to offer affordable luxury dining and drinking experiences within elegant yet timeless settings. Open seven days a week for stylish lunches and memorable dining experiences, Afternoon Tea, drinks, and elevated bar snacks.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Expansion to The Cut & Craft Leeds, which opened in 2022, follows the brand’s Manchester opening in 2025 and major refurbishment to the York venue in 2026. News of expansion into Liverpool with a new site is also on the horizon.