Cinnamon Kitchen, Leeds – Restaurant Review
By Kirsty Reid, June 2025
It’s a Friday night in Leeds, and the city is alive with that unmistakable pre-bank holiday buzz.
After a few drinks and a sun-soaked catch-up, my friend Vic and I make our way to Cinnamon Kitchen – a stylish new addition to the city’s culinary scene.
Housed within the Grade II-listed Queen’s Hotel, Cinnamon Kitchen is just a stone’s throw from the train station, with bars and shops close by.
“Heart of the grandeur”
Stepping inside, my eyes are immediately drawn to the striking palm tree light fixture above the bar – a statement piece that sets the tone for what’s to come.
We’re greeted with warm smiles and it’s not long before we are shown to our table – a cosy, intimate spot nestled within the main dining room.
The space strikes a balance between opulence and warmth, with dark green walls, towering plants, plush orange seating, and gold accents. At the heart of the grandeur is a showstopping chandelier.
Hoping to spice up Leeds’ dining scene, chef Vivek Singh’s menu is a celebration of regional Indian cuisine paired with seasonal British produce – bringing together the best of both.
Catering for a range of tastes, Cinnamon Kitchen boasts a set lunch menu, high chai, and à la carte menu. We’re here to sample the latter.
“Packs a punch”
Perusing the drinks menu, I’m impressed by the range of spice-infused cocktails and mocktails on offer. As tempting as they are, I settle on a lemonade (£3.80), while Vic has half a Cobra (£3.80).
Our friendly waitress, Harshada, talks us through the menu and kindly offers a few recommendations tailored to our tastes – and how much heat we think we can handle!
I opt for the Hakka paneer stir-fry (£11), which is as fiery in flavour as it is in colour.
Cubes of fried paneer (a mild Indian cheese) are paired with pepper and onion, and sprinkled with sesame seeds. It packs a punch, thanks to the chilli, but the honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
Vic opts for the railway bhel papdi (£6), a light and slightly spicy dish of puffed rice and crushed papdi (crispy wafers) topped with pomegranate seeds – a flavoursome, summery snack.
Both starters are delicious and incredibly moreish. By now, we have high expectations for the mains and they don’t disappoint…
“Creative flavours”
My Old Delhi-style butter chicken (£17) is mild and creamy, with tender chicken that practically falls apart at the touch. It’s topped with fenugreek leaves and served alongside a fragrant pilau rice. The garlic and coriander naan (£4.50) perfectly complements the dish.
Vic’s grilled king prawns Colombo curry (£25), I’m told, is equally delicious. Beautifully presented, the succulent prawns are peeled, delicately stuffed and served with ghee rice. A peshawari naan side (£5.50) completes the main.
When Harshada brings over the dessert menu, I can’t help but be tempted. But I decide to pass and instead try some of Vic’s mango sorbet (£6.50).
The perfect palate cleanser, the icy treat is both light and refreshing.
With bold, creative flavours served in a grand setting, Cinnamon Kitchen has certainly turned up the heat on the city’s food scene. I can’t wait to return to sample more of their tantalising menu.
Cinnamon Kitchen, The Queens Hotel, City Square, Leeds
Cinnamon Kitchen Leeds is the first Northern opening from acclaimed chef Vivek Singh. Known for its bold and creative take on modern Indian cuisine, the new restaurant brings Cinnamon Kitchen’s signature fusion of traditional Indian flavours with contemporary techniques to Leeds for the first time.
cinnamon-kitchen.com
Kirsty has spent nearly 20 years grappling words, first in arts and events, then as a sub-editor for national magazines and newspapers. Now working in communications, she crafts messages that cut through the noise. She satisfies her creative appetite by writing about food, theatre and travel, sometimes accompanied by her trusty whippet, Willow.
