‘We just couldn’t make it work’: Kino restaurant in Leeds to close

Kino in Leeds will close its doors next week after two and a half years of trading.

 

The 100-cover restaurant opened in July 2022 within the Grade II-listed Howard Assembly Room performance venue in partnership with arts organisation Opera North.

 

It initially offered cheese and charcuterie before moving on to host guest chefs and kitchen residences.

 

In February 2023, food critic Jay Rayner praised Kino for its MorMor residency. He wrote in The Observer: “You may not flop back in your seat, your eyes and various other body parts moist with excitement. But you will feel that somebody gave a damn.”

 

In an Instagram post announcing the closure, Kino said: “Some very sad news to share with you. Unfortunately, we’ll be closing our doors on 21 December.

 

“We’ve had a blast the last two and a half years, but sadly just couldn’t make it work. It’s been a really difficult decision. We’re looking at new opportunities to use our big, beautiful space, but for now it’s goodbye.

 

“Huge, huge thank yous to everyone who has worked so hard in the Kino kitchen, and to everyone front of house.”

 

The restaurant said guests who had made bookings beyond 21 December “will be contacted”.