March · Seasonal
The case for a proper brew
Why our house blend sits on the counter for exactly four minutes before it gets poured — and why the regulars notice.
Our Story
A quiet fixture
off Briggate.
The Empire Cafe has been pouring coffee and turning out proper breakfasts for as long as most Leeds locals can remember — the sort of place regulars send their visiting friends. We keep things simple: good ingredients, cooked with care, served by people who actually want you to enjoy your meal.
Our menu leans on Yorkshire suppliers wherever we can. Proper Full Englishes all day, a changing lunch board, and specialty coffee from a local roaster. Whether it's a quick flat white or a long Sunday lunch — you're welcome here.
7AMDoors open
YORKS.Suppliers
40Seats inside
Cafe Journal
From the kitchen floor.
Field notes, seasonal specials and the odd recipe. Scroll across for the latest.
February · Kitchen
Anatomy of the Empire Burger
Dry-aged Yorkshire beef, smoked cheddar, and a bacon jam that takes three days. No shortcuts — just timing.
January · Sweet
Sticky toffee, the old way
Dates, black treacle, cold butter. A proper pudding that's been on the board since we opened and isn't going anywhere.
Autumn · Suppliers
Who we buy from
Meet the Yorkshire farmers, bakers and roasters whose names you'll find tucked into our menu every week.
Sunday · Ritual
Our Sunday roast, hour by hour
A look at how the Sunday service comes together — from the 6am oven light to the last Yorkshire pudding.
Gallery
The room, the plates,
the Leeds light.
Come Find Us
Hours & location.
| Monday | 07:30 — 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 07:30 — 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 07:30 — 16:00 |
| Thursday | 07:30 — 21:00 |
| Friday | 07:30 — 21:00 |
| Saturday | 09:00 — 21:00 |
| Sunday | 09:00 — 16:00 |
Reservations
Book your table.
Pop in your details and we'll confirm shortly. Parties of 6 or more, please email us directly.