The Cat's Pyjamas: A Vibrant Indian Culinary Gem in Headingley
Experience vibrant pan-Indian street food in a cosy, lively setting at The Cat's Pyjamas in Headingley, Leeds.
The Cat's Pyjamas is a popular Indian restaurant located at 53 Otley Road in Headingley, Leeds. Known for its pan-Indian street food style, it offers a blend of traditional and modern dishes crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. The venue combines a cosy, lively atmosphere with attentive service, making it a favourite for locals and students alike. It serves generous portions with a focus on quality ingredients and a diverse menu that includes unique regional specialties.
A brief summary to The Cat's Pyjamas
- 53 Otley Rd, Leeds, Headingley, LS6 3AB, GB
- +441132742618
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 5 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Try sharing a variety of small plates to sample the diverse flavours of the menu.
- Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is popular with locals and students.
- Ask the staff for recommendations or to adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter dining experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cat's Pyjamas location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Cat's Pyjamas
A Culinary Fusion Inspired by Indian Street Food
The Cat's Pyjamas brings a fresh take on Indian cuisine to the vibrant neighbourhood of Headingley in Leeds. The restaurant specializes in pan-Indian street food, offering a variety of small plates and mains that showcase flavours from across the Indian subcontinent. Its menu is the creation of Alfred Prasad, a chef with Michelin-star experience, ensuring a high standard of culinary craftsmanship. Dishes range from smoky tandoori chicken to crispy fried okra, with some unique offerings like Kerala beef fry that reflect regional Indian cooking traditions rarely seen in typical Indian restaurants in the UK.Atmosphere and Service in a Cosy Setting
Set in a welcoming and intimate space, The Cat's Pyjamas is designed to appeal to Headingley’s youthful and diverse crowd, including students and local residents. The interior exudes a casual yet stylish vibe, making it a perfect spot for relaxed dining or social gatherings. Service is generally attentive and friendly, with staff often going the extra mile to accommodate dietary preferences and special requests, creating a personalised dining experience.Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
The restaurant encourages sharing plates, which is in keeping with the street food ethos. Signature dishes include the chicken masala, praised for its balance of spices and tender meat, and the okra fries, which are crispy and well-seasoned. The menu also features refreshing drinks such as mango lassi to complement the spices. While some diners note the absence of desserts, the generous portions and rich flavours often leave guests satisfied without needing a sweet finish.Community and Location Appeal
Located on Otley Road, The Cat's Pyjamas is embedded in the lively Headingley district, known for its student population and vibrant nightlife. The restaurant adds a distinctive flavour to the local dining scene, standing out with its focus on quality Indian street food and craft beer options. It has quickly become a go-to spot for those seeking a blend of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes in a convivial environment.Challenges and Customer Experience
While the restaurant enjoys a strong reputation, some guests have reported inconsistencies such as timing of food service and occasional dryness in certain dishes. However, the management’s responsiveness and willingness to remake meals to suit customer preferences often mitigate these issues. Overall, The Cat's Pyjamas balances quality food with a friendly atmosphere, making it a notable destination for Indian cuisine in Leeds.Expanding Presence and Future Outlook
Following its success in Headingley, The Cat's Pyjamas expanded with a second location in Leeds city centre, reflecting its growing popularity. This growth underscores its role in redefining Indian dining in the region, blending street food culture with elevated culinary techniques. The restaurant continues to attract a diverse clientele, from families to groups of friends, maintaining its reputation as a vibrant and innovative dining venue.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Leeds War Memorial
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Statue of John Harrison
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Holy Trinity Church
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The Talbot Hounds Fountain
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Leeds Minster
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Royal Armouries Museum
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Rodley Nature Reserve
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Leeds Dock
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Original Oak
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Headingley Rectory
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Discover Headingley Rectory, a charming historic church nestled in the vibrant Leeds suburb of Headingley, blending heritage with community spirit.
Headingley Carnegie Pavilion
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Sparrow Park
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Hinsley Hall
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Woodhouse Ridge View point
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A serene urban woodland viewpoint offering sweeping vistas over Leeds and the Meanwood Valley’s natural beauty.
AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
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Historic rugby league stadium in Leeds, home to Leeds Rhinos, blending tradition with modern stands and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Headingley Bear Pit
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Explore the turreted, castle-like Headingley Bear Pit, a rare Victorian relic from Leeds’ historic zoological gardens.
Beckett Park
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Woodhouse Moor
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Elephant Rock
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Queen Victoria's Statue
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The Hollies
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Abbey House Museum Gardens
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Kirkstall Abbey
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Essential places to dine
The Cat's Pyjamas
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Experience vibrant pan-Indian street food in a cosy, lively setting at The Cat's Pyjamas in Headingley, Leeds.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Holton Apparel
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
