La Bottega Milanese

La Bottega Milanese’ smaller outlet can be found in The Light, an indoor shopping and food centre on Leeds centre’s Headrow. While the shop itself is small, there is overspill seating in the concourse at high benches, which is light and airy if not actually outside.

The house roast, brewed by La Bottega Milanese themselves, is excellent in milky coffees; there is also a decaf option. There is a range of freshly prepared sandwiches and some Italian hot food, as well as a sumptuous array of pastries and cakes, including a giant cannoli to die for. Licensed for alcohol, they also serve espresso corretto and mocha and latte versions with a kick of the stronger stuff. There are toilets in the centre itself, if not actually attached to the venue.

While slightly off the beaten track as a drop-in location, this vibrant little café is nonetheless worth a detour and makes for a great evening spot.