Seven Arts

Although most of Leeds’ key places for nights out are city centre venues, every once in a while a suburban spot will find its place on the map. Seven Arts in Chapel Allerton is not only an independent arts venue, with the bar doubling up as a gallery, but is also a contemporary performance space famed for its gigs, fine wine, and impressive menu. The upmarket town isn’t short of quality places to drink and dine, but Seven turns an evening into a sophisticated, self-contained package of entertainment with a constant calendar of jazz, folk, blues, rock, spoken word, and comedy acts.

The bar staff have been accused of being tetchy with pernickety customers, the venue isn’t very child-friendly (despite a dedicated menu), and the service could be faster, but it provides a largely welcoming experience with a solid range of dishes and wines. Alongside the basic but wholesome options of soup, sandwiches, burgers and jacket potatoes, diners can choose from a range of mains that includes grilled haddock, mushroom risotto, quinoa with feta, and a good choice of mezze plates that are perfect for pre-show nibbling – all priced at around £10 (£11 for three small dishes). Sunday brunch is served from 10.30am to 3.30pm, and includes mainly light breakfasts and salads, all for under £10.

A modest bar serves a well-chosen range of wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks that can be taken through to the candlelit tables of the performance space. Each season sees a different listing of acclaimed films, both modern and classic, shown as part of Screen Seven, an intimate, alternative cinema experience for a very reasonable £6 (£4.50 concessions) on Monday evenings. A shining example of social enterprise success, Seven Arts ploughs its profits into supporting its stage and provides a unique space for the vibrant community.