MOJO Leeds: The Iconic Rock ’n’ Roll Cocktail Bar
MOJO Leeds: Legendary cocktails, rock ’n’ roll vibes, and late-night energy in the heart of the city.
MOJO Leeds, located at 18 Merrion Street, is a vibrant cocktail bar renowned for its unique blend of New York dive bar style, eclectic rock ’n’ roll soundtrack, and expertly crafted cocktails. Since opening in 1996, MOJO has become a cornerstone of Leeds’ nightlife, offering a lively atmosphere with late-night hours, a dedicated Rhum Room, and a menu featuring both classic and modern drinks alongside bar snacks.
A brief summary to MOJO
- 18 Merrion St, Leeds, LS1 6PQ, GB
- +441133604810
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-4 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-4 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-4 am
- Thursday 5 pm-4 am
- Friday 5 pm-5 am
- Saturday 1 pm-5 am
- Sunday 5 pm-4 am
Local tips
- Visit early evening for a laid-back atmosphere with great music before it transforms into a lively nightspot.
- Try the signature cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, especially in the dedicated Rhum Room.
- Book private hire spaces for celebrations or hen parties to enjoy a personalized experience.
- Expect a vibrant crowd on weekends; arrive early to secure a spot in this popular bar.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
MOJO location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about MOJO
A Legacy of Rock and Cocktails
MOJO Leeds has been a trailblazer in the city’s independent bar scene since its inception in 1996. It captures the essence of a New York dive bar with a gritty yet welcoming ambiance that feels both intimate and energetic. The bar’s walls are adorned with limited-edition Rock ’n’ Roll artwork, celebrating music legends from the last five decades. This dedication to music is not just decorative; MOJO’s soundtrack spans from classic rock icons like Hendrix and Harrison to modern classics, creating an immersive auditory experience.Atmosphere and Vibe
MOJO transforms as the night progresses—from a laid-back, cozy retreat early in the evening to a bustling, lively venue where dancing on tables is embraced. The decor is described as “clean but dirty,” evoking the feel of a long-forgotten blues riff that is both nostalgic and fresh. The bar’s compact layout ensures that the bar is always close by, fostering a personable and sociable environment. Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, offering expert advice and engaging banter.Drinks and Dining Experience
The bar specializes in a vast range of cocktails and rare liquors, crafted by specially trained mixologists who dazzle patrons with their skill. While the beer selection is limited and does not focus on craft or local ales, this is more than compensated by the diverse and reasonably priced cocktails and shooters. Recently, MOJO has introduced bar snacks such as chicken wings and sliders, complementing the drinks and catering to late-night appetites.Venue and Events
Located in Leeds City Centre, MOJO offers spaces for private hire, including a semi-private area accommodating up to 25 seated guests and 40 standing. The venue is equipped with a PA system and music speakers, allowing for personalized music during events. It is a popular choice for celebrations, hen parties, and work dos, with an emphasis on creating memorable nights where the drinks keep flowing and the music never stops.Community and Cultural Impact
MOJO has played a significant role in shaping the nightlife culture around Merrion Street and the Northern Quarter. It stands alongside other like-minded venues, contributing to a vibrant, music-infused social scene. The bar’s motto, “Music For The People,” reflects its commitment to inclusivity and good times, making it a beloved spot for a diverse clientele who appreciate great music, cocktails, and atmosphere.Practical Details and Accessibility
MOJO operates late into the night, opening from 5pm to 4am Sunday through Thursday, extending to 5am on Fridays and Saturdays, with earlier opening at 1pm on Saturdays. Its central location makes it accessible for locals and visitors alike. The venue offers a lively yet intimate setting that suits both casual drinks and special occasions, supported by friendly staff and a strong sense of community.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leeds War Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Holy Trinity Church
0.5 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Tilly + Enzo
0.6 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Civic Hall
0.6 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
0.6 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Leeds Minster
0.6 km
Discover Leeds Minster, a magnificent neo-Gothic church with over 1,400 years of history, musical heritage, and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
Statue of John Harrison
0.7 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Temple Works
1.4 km
Discover Temple Works, Leeds’ iconic Egyptian Revival flax mill blending industrial heritage with architectural grandeur and future cultural renewal.
Sparrow Park
3.1 km
Discover tranquility at Sparrow Park in Headingley, a picturesque green space perfect for relaxation, picnics, and community events in Leeds.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant Chapel Allerton, Leeds, where local culture, unique shops, and diverse dining converge in a charming community atmosphere.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
3.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Chapel Allerton Spaces, a tranquil retreat in Leeds perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Willow Tree
3.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree in Leeds, where nature meets relaxation, perfect for tourists seeking a serene escape.
AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
3.3 km
Discover the heart of rugby culture at AMT Headingley Stadium, Leeds – where thrilling matches and community spirit unite!
Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre
3.3 km
Discover a vibrant community hub at Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre, where art, culture, and collaboration come together in Leeds.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
3.3 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Varieties Music Hall
0.2 km
Britain's longest-running music hall, where Victorian charm meets contemporary entertainment.
County Arcade
0.2 km
Explore County Arcade, a Victorian masterpiece in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, where luxury shopping meets stunning stained-glass artistry and historic grandeur.
Dortmund Square
0.3 km
A bustling urban square in Leeds city centre, famed for the iconic Barrel Man statue and its cultural link to Dortmund.
Thornton's Arcade
0.3 km
Discover Leeds’ oldest covered shopping arcade, a Victorian architectural gem blending history, culture, and unique independent shops under one elegant glass roof.
Ivanhoe Clock Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds.
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting Ivanhoe Clock and Victorian elegance in Leeds’ historic Thornton’s Arcade, where art, history, and independent shops converge.
Victoria Leeds
0.3 km
Victoria Leeds blends historic elegance with modern luxury, offering premier shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Leeds city centre.
The Merrion Centre
0.3 km
Leeds' enduring retail landmark blending major brands with independent character.
Queens Arcade
0.3 km
Discover Leeds’ Victorian charm and boutique shopping at Queens Arcade, a historic arcade blending heritage with unique retail experiences.
The Core
0.3 km
A vibrant Leeds city centre shopping destination blending retail, dining, and fitness under one roof.
The Light the Headrow
0.4 km
A vibrant city-centre complex in Leeds combining shopping, dining, bowling, cinema, nightlife, and a hotel in one dynamic destination.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
0.4 km
Discover Leeds Kirkgate Market, Europe’s largest indoor market blending historic charm with vibrant global flavors and bustling community spirit.
Leeds Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover Leeds Cathedral’s unique Arts & Crafts beauty and serene spiritual atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Leeds City Museum
0.5 km
Discover Leeds’ rich heritage and natural wonders in a historic museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions for all ages.
Central Arcade
0.5 km
Leeds' vibrant three-storey shopping arcade: trendy boutiques, unique gifts, sushi spots, and creative workshops in a glass-roofed urban gem.
Jonny's Pitch
0.5 km
Jonny's Pitch in Leeds: A vibrant hub honoring the legacy of a passionate busker and the spirit of street performance.
Essential places to dine
Chef Jono at V&V
0.0 km
Experience innovative Modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus crafted by Masterchef finalist Jono Hawthorne in the heart of Leeds.
Casa Leeds
0.0 km
Experience authentic South American gluten-free tapas and vibrant culture in Leeds’ historic Grand Arcade.
Zaap Thai Street Food Leeds
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and buzzing atmosphere of Bangkok street food in Leeds’ Grand Arcade at Zaap Thai Street Food.
Thai a Roy Dee
0.1 km
Authentic Thai flavors and generous portions in a casual Leeds setting with a BYOB policy and unbeatable value.
The Swine That Dines
0.2 km
Experience cosy, creative modern British cuisine with a warm welcome in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Ox Club
0.2 km
A vibrant modern British grill in Leeds’ historic mill, famed for smoky wood-fired cooking and bold, locally sourced flavors.
Three's A Crowd | Leeds
0.2 km
Rustic-chic gastropub in Leeds offering creative British dishes, generous portions, and a warm, lively atmosphere with attentive service.
The Man Behind The Curtain
0.2 km
A bold, artistic fine dining experience in Leeds where culinary innovation meets theatrical presentation and urban edge.
The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, blending Art Deco glamour with classic and contemporary cuisine for all-day dining.
The Cut & Craft Leeds
0.3 km
Historic charm meets premium steakhouse dining in the heart of Leeds with vibrant atmosphere and craft cocktails.
The Ivy Asia Leeds
0.3 km
Experience luxurious pan-Asian dining and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Leeds’ stylish Victoria Quarter.
Turtle Bay Leeds
0.3 km
Experience bold Caribbean flavours, vibrant cocktails, and lively vibes at Turtle Bay Leeds in the heart of the city centre.
Fleur Restaurant and Bar Leeds
0.4 km
A vibrant fusion of British, Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors set in a stunning floral-themed Leeds city centre restaurant.
Miller & Carter Leeds Light
0.4 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Leeds Light, a city centre hotspot for steak lovers.
Lost & Found Leeds Club
0.4 km
Step into Victorian grandeur and modern mixology at Lost & Found Leeds Club, a captivating dining and cocktail destination in the city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grand Arcade
0.0 km
Discover Leeds’ historic Victorian arcade, a vibrant hub of independent shops, vintage cafes, and iconic clockwork charm.
Cow Vintage
0.2 km
Explore ethical vintage fashion in Leeds’ historic County House with Cow Vintage’s curated, sustainable collection and spacious shopping experience.
The Works
0.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Leeds’ Merrion Shopping Centre, inspiring creativity for all ages.
Gems Leeds
0.2 km
Trendy ladies' boutique in Leeds' St Johns Centre, famed for chic sets and coordinated fashion finds in a lively city shopping hub.
Open Lifestyle Store
0.3 km
Discover stylish, quality men's fashion in the historic charm of Leeds’ Thornton's Arcade at Open Lifestyle Store.
Anthropologie
0.3 km
Distinctive women’s fashion and homewares in Leeds’ elegant Victoria Gate shopping district.
Pop Boutique
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique retro treasures at Pop Boutique, Leeds’ beloved destination for curated vintage style from the 50s to 90s.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
Scandinavian-inspired fashion in Leeds' most architecturally celebrated shopping destination.
John Lewis & Partners
0.3 km
Leeds’ largest John Lewis store located in the vibrant Victoria Gate, offering extensive shopping and expert services in a modern, accessible setting.
Montblanc Boutique Leeds
0.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Montblanc Boutique Leeds, your premier destination for luxury watches and accessories.
Intrigue Fashion
0.4 km
Discover stylish ladies' clothing and accessories in the heart of Leeds Kirkgate Market at Intrigue Fashion.
Yellow Sunrise
0.4 km
Discover Leeds’ vibrant metaphysical shop in Central Arcade, where colorful curiosities and spiritual treasures await every visitor.
Blue Rinse
0.5 km
Leeds’ oldest vintage shop offering curated, sustainable, and iconic retro fashion across multiple floors at 14 Call Lane.
Tomorrow Store
0.5 km
Discover gender-neutral fashion and unique homewares at Leeds’ independent Tomorrow Store in the historic Central Arcade.
The Allotment Store
0.5 km
Leeds’ leading boutique for avant-garde designer menswear and exclusive high-end fashion collections.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
MOJO
0.0 km
Leeds' rock 'n' roll dive bar: killer cocktails, guitar anthems, and late-night grit since '96. Arm yourself for unpretentious Northern Quarter revelry.
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Leeds
0.0 km
Deep South dive bar shrine to Johnny Cash: free pizzas, dice-rolling free drinks, cocktails till 4am in Leeds' party heart.
Blind Tyger
0.1 km
Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
North Bar
0.1 km
Leeds’ original craft beer pioneer offering an eclectic selection of beers and cocktails in a quirky, cosy setting since 1997.
Headrow House
0.2 km
Leeds' multi-floor gem in a historic mill: unpasteurized beers, grilled seasonal feasts, rooftop skyline views, and live music beats.
Whitelock's Ale House
0.4 km
Leeds' oldest ale house since 1715: Grade II*-listed Victorian splendor, real ales from Yorkshire taps, and hearty local grub in a hidden city yard.
The Maven
0.5 km
Step into The Maven, Leeds’ stylish 1920s speakeasy bar where expert cocktails and lively late-night parties create unforgettable nights.
Be At One - Greek Street Leeds
0.5 km
Lively Leeds cocktail bar with 100+ expertly crafted drinks, buzzing nights, and unbeatable happy hour deals on vibrant Greek Street.
Jake's Bar & Still Room
0.5 km
Lively Leeds cocktail bar on Call Lane with expert drinks, intimate lighting, and a buzzing late-night atmosphere.
The Alchemist Trinity
0.6 km
Experience Leeds’ premier cocktail bar blending molecular mixology, stunning rooftop views, and vibrant dining at The Alchemist Trinity.
Below Stairs
0.6 km
A moody, speakeasy-style cocktail bar beneath South Parade — small tables, considered cocktails and an intimate basement vibe.
Tiki Hideaway
0.6 km
Escape to Leeds’ original tiki bar for tropical cocktails, vibrant vibes, and a 1950s Polynesian island party right in the city centre.
Lost & Found Leeds
0.6 km
Eclectic cocktails, global cuisine, and vibrant vibes converge at The Lost & Found, a stylish bar and restaurant in Leeds city centre.
Smokestack
0.6 km
A stylish Leeds cocktail bar and live music venue blending bluesy vibes with expertly crafted drinks and lively nights out.
Cuckoo
0.6 km
A colorful, quirky cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with free pizzas, adventurous drinks, and vibrant party vibes until the early hours.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
0.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
0.1 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Key Club
0.2 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
0.3 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
Home Nightclub Leeds
0.3 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Wire
0.5 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
The HiFi Club
0.5 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
Popworld - Leeds
0.5 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
The Space
0.5 km
Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
ULTRA
0.5 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
0.5 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
Quadrophenia Night
0.6 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Backroom
0.6 km
A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
0.6 km
Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
Arabian Night Lounge
0.8 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nightlife
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly