This was NOT a jazz club when we visited (Saturday night); full of 2000s bangers but no jazz and arguably no funk/soul. Nice staff though and decent seating/atmosphere:) Edit: they cut off Feel Good Inc halfway through!!!!!!!! I'm NEVER coming back (I'm joking but my feelings are SO hurt)
A bar of genuine character. And an interesting soundtrack.
Nice atmosphere, but the drinks were a bit disappointing, no garnishing on any of the cocktails, they ran out of jameson whiskey for one drink and had no mint for another. For cocktails priced at £10+ , you'd expect there to be the extra detail.
Happened upon this place and, as a grumpy bunch of men who care deeply about quality of beer and of music, we were blown away by it. Amazing selection of drinks and brilliant soul tunes. Staff were super friendly and helpful too. All round top place.
Such a fun spot! The cocktails were amazing – full of flavor and really well made. The staff were super friendly and kept the energy up all night. Loved the vibe, music, and overall atmosphere. Perfect place to kick off a night out – can’t wait to go back!
We ordered a range of cocktails: negroni, espresso martini, whisky sour, old fashioned. They were prepared quickly and were of a high standard, what's more they were about 9 quid each! You'd pay double this in other places and I have and they haven't been as good. Great atmosphere and varying floors with varying moods to suit your vibe.
Very nice cocktail bar with some smashing tunes and helpful, friendly staff. Fair prices too considering quality. Definitely returning next time I'm in Leeds.
Pricey cocktails about sums this place up. We missed the two for one offer by a minute because of the group that had all ordered doubles of everything in front of us and was they told they could honour it. Oh well…
Probably one of the best niche bars I have ever been to with amazing staff. Pure history, the music, the vibe - it's everything. If you want a nice night out - I'm talking chill jazz, real Southern Motown kinda music. No shortage of Marvin Gaye, Otis Reading and much much more. It has another floor as well for parties they do on Saturdays. Excellent selection of spirits. They stocked my Bermuda rum which I'm proud of. If you find yourself in Leeds and want a nice place to go for a drink (not your typical pub or bar). Come to Smokestack. I will be returning.
I've been in Leeds for a year at this point and Smokestack is still my go-to for atmosphere and drinks. It only loses a point because of their move earlier this year to drop cask beers in favour of cans and bottles. It's a good thing the cocktails are stellar!
Smokestack is located at 159A Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LY, UK
You can contact Smokestack at +44 113 245 2222
You can find directions to Smokestack by following this map link