Leeds Beer QuestReviewing every last watering hole in Leeds city centre

Rum & Reason

Reviewed by Emily on 17 Mar 2016

Closed
Sadly, this bar has now closed down.
Need a reason to try this place? How about the rum?
Need a reason to try this place? How about the rum?

So apparently it Bar wasn’t so it after all, as they’ve closed down and re-opened under new ownership and a new identity, Rum & Reason. The place has got a fresh coat of paint and a new style, and it’s very attractive without feeling sterile. Whilst the previous bar had a greasy spoon vibe about it, this place is definitely aiming for classy cocktail bar.

Cocktails! Says so right on the wall. In lights.
Cocktails! Says so right on the wall. In lights.

They don’t totally ignore the beers, however, stocking the fridge with two Camdens, two BrewDogs, Hobgoblin, Brooklyn, Leffe, Sierra Nevada, Flying Dog and Anchor. The taps are not much to shout about, but Blue Moon and Estrella are always nice to see. As you might guess from the name, rum is the real raison d’etre here, with a well-stocked shelf ready for cocktails to order.

A new bar, with a sleek and trendy feel.
A new bar, with a sleek and trendy feel.

There are still plenty of traces of the previous occupiers, including the menu, but the bartender says this will change as they transition into the new space. For now you’ll be treated to filthy burgers and hot dogs with a heavy American influence.

The staff are very friendly and we felt right at home here, so it will feature in our rotation from this part of town. We’re looking forward to seeing how it develops once it settles in to the space a bit more.