11 Best Restaurants in Leek, Staffordshire
LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN LEEK STAFFORDSHIRE? YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE!
The charming village of Leek at the edge of the Peak District is famed for its picture-stamp old English buildings and being surrounded by gorgeous countryside, and one of the best things about this place is its impressive array of culinary spots.
Its small size means the best restaurants, pubs and bars are within walking distance of each other, which is perfect for spending a day sampling the various foods and drinks on offer.
Being a Stokie (resident of Stoke) means Leek is just a short drive away, so I’ve been fortunate to visit the village on several occasions on a quest to experience the top eateries as well as browse the bustling Leek outdoor markets.
If I were to pick my top 3 restaurants right now, they would be:
★ Duck Goose (rustic chic, farm-to-table)
★ Primo Piano Ristorante (upscale Italian, romantic, elegant)
★ The Street Grill (trendy burger joint, casual, comfort food)
This is a curated list of my favourite spots to eat in Leek, Staffordshire, the creme de la creme when it comes to traditional English as well as modern international cuisine (plus a really amazing Thai that always has a queue out the door).
Let’s take a look and explore the finest restaurants Leek has to offer:
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH OUR FAVOURITE RESOURCES
→ Best Accommodation site: Booking.com
→ Book an Activity or a Day Tour here: Viator.com
→ Compare Bus, Coach & Train Prices here: Omio.com
→ Reserve your Rental Car here: DiscoverCars.com
11 Top Restaurants in Leek Staffordshire (by a Local)
My 11 best recommended places to eat in Leek, based on personal experience, price, food quality, service, and excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Google.
Duck Goose (Modern British)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Rustic chic, farm-to-table | Menu: (click here)
Winners of the ‘Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year’ 22-23 and 23-24, Duck Goose is a real gem in this region’s food scene, and hands down one of the best places to eat in Leek, with impressive ratings on both Tripadvisor and Google, this street corner spot serves up some seriously delicious modern British cuisine.
It’s great for a romantic dinner or a special night out with friends. Their signature dish is in the name: The slow-roasted duck breast with cherry sauce – so tender it slides straight off the bone.
→ Good to know: Duck Goose also ranks as one of Leek’s best pubs for real ale.
First time eating here and what a lovely place! Didn’t realise there was a downstairs, fabulous atmosphere! Sunday dinner was beautiful, highly recommend!
kayleigh m, stoke-on-trent, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££ / £20-£30
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.9/5
Opening times: Friday-Saturday 12pm-3pm & 5:30-10:30pm, Sunday 12-6pm, Monday-Wednesday: closed, Thursday 12-3pm & 5:30-10pm
✨ Fancy Dining on a Steam Train in Leek?
Turn a meal into a memorable journey with a dining experience aboard the beautifully restored Churnet Valley Railway – the perfect way to combine stunning Staffordshire scenery with delicious food:
➡️ The Lunch Train – offers a freshly prepared three-course menu on board.
➡️ The Bombay Express – does a special curry meal experience.
➡️ The Cream Tea for Two – a quintessential British afternoon tea complete with scones, clotted cream, jam, and pot of tea.
➡️ And then there is the Murder Mystery Steam Train Dining Experience!
Related post: A Complete Guide to Leek and the Peak District
Three Horseshoes Country Inn & Spa
*AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence 2024*
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Luxury country inn with spa facilities and fine dining
Tucked away in the picturesque Peak District, The Three Horseshoes Country Inn & Spa is an award-winning, 4-star country inn that represents the upper tier of Leek’s dining scene, combining traditional country pub hospitality with luxury spa facilities and boutique accommodation.
The Three Horseshoes offers fine dining in stunning countryside surroundings, making it perfect for special occasions, romantic getaways, or luxury breaks. The combination of good food, comfortable accommodation, and spa treatments sets it apart from traditional pubs in the area.
✨ Upgrade Your Visit: Exclusive Spa Packages
Why not make your visit a truly luxurious escape? Beyond the fantastic food, they offer a range of indulgent spa experiences for the ultimate relaxation:
➡️ Sparkling Hot Tub Spa Break with Dinner & Overnight Stay – complimentary bottle of fizz included for a truly romantic getaway.
➡️ Half-Day Spa with Beach Hut Experience – includes a classic afternoon tea.
➡️ Half Spa Day comes with a 25-minute treatment & two-course lunch.
Fabulous – I cannot lie flat on my stomach and the therapist adapted to my needs. Indian head massage and leg and foot massage. Superb and was very relaxed.
pat g, TRIPADVISOR REVIEW
Price range: ££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.1 | Google Map Rating: ★4.4
Opening times: see website:
✨ Book Your Stay at The Three Horseshoes Inn
Why not book a stay at the Three Horseshoes County inn & Spa? With an 8.7 rating and rave reviews, we think its the perfect base to unwind, recover, refuel and rest after your Peak District adventures.
→ Read also: Best Log Cabins with Hot Tubs Near the Peak District
The Napoli (Authentic Italian)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Family-run, cosy | Menu: (click here)
If you’re craving a slice of Italy in Leek, one of our top recommendations is The Napoli.
Don’t just take our word for it – this family-run trattoria boasts rave reviews that backs up its reputation for truly authentic Italian cuisine. It’s the go-to spot for a casual lunch or a laid-back dinner with friends.
★ Insider Secret: At The Napoli, ask for their off-menu ‘Nonna’s Special’ pizza. It changes weekly based on the freshest ingredients available.
Their wood-fired pizzas are the talk of the town, with crispy thin crusts and generous toppings that’ll transport you straight to Naples.
And.. don’t miss their homemade tiramisu – it’s so good, you might shed a tear of joy. The prices are fair, making it a great option for budget-conscious foodies.
My eleven year old chose pizza whilst we were away for a short break staying in leek. So we went to the napoli. It was excellent. The food was exceptional and the service was too. A slight hiccup when my daughters pizza didn’t appear. But it was dealt with quickly and acceptably.
chris p, farnborough, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday 5-9pm, Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 1-10pm, Sunday 1-9pm, (Closed Mondays)
✦ Related post: Historic Market Towns in Staffordshire
Primo Piano Ristorante (Italian, Mediterranean)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Upscale Italian, romantic | Menu: (click here)
Now we move onto another Italian and I’ll show you why it makes this list. For a taste of la dolce vita, Primo Piano Ristorante is your ticket to culinary bliss.
This upscale Italian eatery is the perfect spot for a special occasion or when you’re in the mood to treat yourself. Honestly, we think it’s one of the best restaurants in Leek town centre.
Their freshly handmade pasta dishes are to die for, but the real showstopper is the seafood risotto – creamy, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavours of the Mediterranean.
★ Budget Hack: Primo Piano offers a fantastic early bird menu Tuesday to Thursday. Go between 5-7pm for a taste of luxury at a fraction of the price!
Another unique aspect of this spot is that it caters to special diets and allergies, and features a broad gluten-free range.
Both the interior and exterior ooze authentic Italian vibes and what’s more, the attentive service will make you feel like royalty. While it’s on the pricier side, the experience is worth every pound. I’d highly advise making a reservation, especially for weekend dinners.
A little Gem , what a fantastic Italian restaurant. Welcoming lovely staff , and the best Italian food I have tasted . Reasonably priced and great wine . Would highly recommend. And most definitely will be eating here again soon.
kelly j, tripadvisor review
Price range: £££ / £15-£30
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday: 6-10pm, Friday-Saturday: 12-2pm & 5:30-10pm, Sunday-Monday (closed)
Good to know: Leek is a short drive from Alton Towers – the UK’s number 1 theme park. Get 50% off your Alton Towers tickets when you book in advance HERE:
More Staffordshire restaurant reviews:
7 Best Places to Eat in Cheadle
15 Incredible Restaurants in Stoke
9 Top Restaurants in Stone
The 10 Best Places to Eat in Newcastle-under-Lyme
11 Must-Try Stafford Restaurants
Chennai Indian Cuisine (Indian)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Contemporary Indian, stylish & aromatic | Menu: (click here)
Chennai Indian Cuisine easily makes the list as one of the best Indian restaurants in Leek and the local region. This place tantalises your taste buds with its aromatic dishes and warm hospitality.
Boasting flawless ambience and fast service, Chennai is ideal for a flavourful dinner that’ll transport you straight to the streets of India.
★ Spice Lover’s Alert: Don’t be afraid to ask for your dish to be made ‘Desi style’ – they’ll amp up the heat and flavours for a more authentic experience!
I must say their butter chicken is legendary – rich, creamy, and packed with enough spice whilst keeping mild to cater to all taste buds.
The contemporary decor and soft lighting create a wonderful vibe for a relaxed evening out. Prices are mid-range, offering excellent value for the quality of food you’re getting.
For something different from the usual, I vouch for trying their chef’s specials – you won’t be disappointed!
Never been here before and went to order a Take Away. What a smashing restaurant! Will go to eat there next time. Staff were so helpful and friendly. The food was AMAZING!
charlotte r, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Sunday-Thursday 5:30-10:30pm, Friday-Saturday 5-11pm
Staying in the area? Leek sits at the edge of the stunning Peak District. Consider staying in one of these lodges with hot tubs and breathtaking views, for a truly memorable experience.
✦ Read more: Top Free Things to Do in The West Midlands
Thai Siam Leek (Thai cuisine)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Authentic Thai, relaxed, exotic flavours | Menu: (click here)
This little slice of Thailand has earned quite a reputation for its authentic dishes, warm vibes and friendly service.
It’s perfect for a leisurely lunch or a flavourful dinner with friends. Their Pad Thai is a crowd-pleaser, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Thai Green Curry – it’s fragrant, spicy, and utterly delicious.
The casual atmosphere makes you feel right at home, and the prices won’t break the bank. I’d recommend saving room for their highly popular mango sticky rice dessert – it’s a sweet ending you won’t forget!
Went here today for lunch , waiting on staff were very attentive who went above and beyond . Lovely food served to a professional standard and value for money for a lunch time treat. Well done to the team,
tracy d, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Wednesday-Thursday 5-10:30pm, Friday-Saturday 5-11pm, Sunday 5-10pm, Monday-Tuesday (closed)
You may also like: 14 Top-Rated Pubs in Stoke
Spice Merchant Restaurant (Indian, seafood)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Modern Indian fusion, chic, innovative | Menu: (click here)
Just outside of town on a quiet road is The Spice Merchant, a modern Indian fusion restaurant that has foodies buzzing with an impressive 5-star rating on TripAdvisor with its innovative takes on classic dishes.
It’s the ideal place for a memorable dinner or a late-night feast with friends. Their tandoori lamb chops are a must-try – tender, smoky, and served with a twist that’ll leave you wanting more.
★ Hidden Gem: Spice Merchant has a secret rooftop terrace – perfect for summer evening drinks. Just ask the staff to show you up!
The chic interior and attentive staff add to the overall experience. While prices are slightly higher than your average curry house, the quality and creativity of the dishes justify the cost – I mean, how many other restaurants boast a perfect 5/5 score on TripAdvisor?
I urge you to try their tasting menu for a full flavour explosion!
Have eaten in the restaurant numberous times and it’s always been delicious and full of flavour. When we heard that they had started to delivery we had to give it a try and it did not disappoint – best curry in leek and staff always very friendly! 🙂
amy s, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.7/5
Opening times: 5-11pm daily
You may also like: 15+ Free Maps of the Peak District (PDF Downloads)
Mill Street Kitchen (English cafe)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Cosy cafe, homemade treats, local ingredients
Looking for a charming spot for brunch or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up? Mill Street Kitchen is your answer.
This adorable cafe has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike, evident from its glowing 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. It’s the perfect place to start your day or refuel during a shopping spree.
Their full English breakfast is a crowd-pleaser, but the real star is their homemade cakes – each bite is pure bliss! The cosy interior and friendly staff make you feel like you’re in your gran’s kitchen.
Another reason this spot makes the list is that the prices are surprisingly wallet-friendly, making it a great option for budget-conscious foodies. And I’d highly recommend grabbing a window seat for a dose of vitamin D as you sip on their excellent coffee.
Brilliant place for anytime of the day! Breakfast amazing and the lunch menu is spot on. I highly recommend a visit here, you won’t be disappointed!
Daryl, leek, tripadvisor review
Price range: £
Tripadvisor Rating: ★5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.7/5
Opening times: Friday-Saturday: 8am-8:30pm, Sunday, Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 8am-2:30pm, Tuesday (closed)
✦ Further reading: Discover Shifnal: Gateway to Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site
Alberto’s Kitchen (Italian, Mediterranean)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Traditional Italian, warm, family-friendly | Menu: (click here)
The last Italian on the list: Alberto’s Kitchen is serving up slices of Italian heaven right here in Leek. This family-run trattoria specialises in authentic Italian thin-crust pizza.
It’s a superb spot for a family dinner or a casual date night. Their homemade lasagna is the stuff of legends – layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese that’ll make you want to kiss your fingers like an Italian chef.
★ Sweet Tooth Tip: Alberto’s Kitchen often has a ‘Dessert of the Day’ that isn’t on the menu. Always ask what’s special before you order!
The warm atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel like we were part of the family. Prices are fairly reasonable, especially for the generous portions you get.
Fantastic authentic Pizza, great staff too, really happy it’s reopened after the revamp. Definitely the Best Pizza in Leek.
neil h, leek, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.7/5
Opening times: Thursday 5-9:30pm, Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 4:30-10pm, (closed Sunday-Wednesday)
The Street Grill (Classic grill, English pub fare)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Trendy burger joint, casual, comfort food | Menu: (click here)
Now The Street Grill, with its quintessential classic grill and English pub food, goes a step further on this list, as it has the double whammy of the perfect 5-star score on both TripAdvisor AND Google Maps!
This joint naturally has burger enthusiasts singing its praises. What makes it special is the steak – which receives rave reviews. It goes without saying that Street Grill offers some of the best pub food in Leek.
★ Veggie Delight: The Street Grill’s plant-based ‘Impossible Burger’ is so good, even die-hard meat lovers are converted. Give it a try!
It’s ideal for a casual lunch with friends or a laid-back dinner date. Their signature “Leek Legend” burger is a towering masterpiece of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese – it’s so good, you might need a moment of silence after your first bite.
The casual vibe and funky decor add to the overall experience. Prices are reasonable, especially considering the generous portions. I vouch for their loaded fries – they’re the perfect sidekick to your burger!
Great food everyone enjoyed everything we had. Small restaurant with a friendly atmosphere and very good value for money.
grande fromage, manchester, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★5/5
Opening times: Friday-Saturday 6-10:30pm (closed Sunday-Thursday)
Angkor Wat (Southeast Asian, Cambodian)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Cambodian-Thai fusion, exotic, intimate | Menu: (click here)
The Angkor Wat delivers not only a taste of Southeast Asian fusion, but a uniquely different option to anything else on this list: Cambodian cuisine.
Located on a residential street just outside of town, this hidden gem has earned quite a reputation for its unique blend of Cambodian and Thai cuisines.
It’s perfect for an intimate dinner or when you’re in the mood to try something totally different. Their Amok curry is a must-try: a fragrant, coconut-based dish that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Siem Reap.
The intimate setting and exotic decor create a lovely atmosphere for a memorable meal. Prices are mid-range, providing great value for such unique flavours.
I truly advise stepping out of your comfort zone and trying one of their Cambodian specialties – after all, this is the second spot on this list to have a perfect 5/5 score on both TripAdvisor and Google Maps!
I stumbled on this little place on an over night trip to Leek. The food was amazing, I honestly have not tasted better takeaway food for a long long time. Highly recommended
jacquelyn g, phuket, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★5/5
Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday 5-10pm (closed Mondays)
✦ Popular post: When Is The Best Time to Visit The West Midlands? (An Insider Guide)
Pabna Restaurant (Bengali, Indian cuisine)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: Traditional Bangladeshi, colourful, aromatic | Menu: (click here)
Last but certainly not least, Pabna Restaurant serves up the most delicious authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.
According to their site, they were awarded England’s Best Chef by English Curry Awards 2017, as well as West Midlands Best Restaurant 2013 and 2014, and from sampling their food it was easy to see why.
★ Curry Connoisseur’s Choice: For a more authentic meal, try the ‘Staff Curry’ – it’s what the chefs eat themselves, and it’s absolutely delicious!
Their signature dish, the Pabna Special, is a fragrant blend of tender meat, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Prices are mid-range, offering excellent value for the quality and portion sizes. For those more sensitive to spicy food I recommend trying their biryanis – they’re a flavour-packed feast in a bowl!
A return visit, there’s numerous other Indian restaurants in Leek but Pabna is our favourite. A delectable menu with both staple dishes but also some chef signature dishes. Tonight’s meal was beautiful and well presented. Thank you team Pabna.
dotty basset, leek, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: 5:30-10:30pm daily
You may also like: Smokin’ Hot Buffet Coventry [Our Review]
Is Leek expensive to live?
Leek is generally considered affordable compared to larger UK cities. Housing costs are reasonable, with a mix of property types available. Daily expenses like groceries and dining out are moderate. However, as with any town, costs can vary depending on lifestyle choices and specific areas within Leek.
Is Leek Staffordshire a nice place to live?
Leek is often praised for its quality of life. It offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, surrounded by beautiful Peak District landscapes. The town boasts good schools, a variety of shops, and a strong sense of community. Its market town atmosphere and proximity to nature make it attractive to many.
More Top Leek Food Recommendations:
Best Indian Restaurants
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Leek
Best Chinese Restaurants & Takeaways
China Garden
Laurel Inn Chinese Restaurant & Takeaway
China Town
Mr Vongs
Cheap Places to Eat in Leek
Flaming Leek (pizza, £)
The Diner (restaurant, £)
Stake Out (pizza, £)
Scorpio Fast Food (takeaway, £)
Turkish Delight (kebab, £)
Conclusion: Best Restaurants in Leek
And to recap the best restaurants in Leek Staffordshire:
- Duck Goose (modern British, rustic chic, farm-to-table )
- The Napoli (authentic Italian, family-run, cosy atmosphere)
- Primo Piano Ristorante (upscale Italian, romantic, elegant)
- Chennai Indian Cuisine (contemporary Indian, stylish, aromatic)
- Thai Siam Leek (authentic Thai, relaxed, exotic flavours)
- The Spice Merchant (modern Indian fusion, chic, innovative)
- Mill Street Kitchen (cosy cafe, homemade treats, local ingredients)
- The Street Grill (trendy burger joint, casual, comfort food)
- Angkor Wat (Cambodian-Thai fusion, exotic, intimate)
- Alberto’s Kitchen (traditional Italian, warm, family-friendly)
- Pabna Restaurant (traditional Bangladeshi, colourful, aromatic)
Remember that it’s always a good idea to check the reviews and ratings online for the most up-to-date information on Leek restaurants, and it may be a good idea to book reservations during the holidays!
