The Man Behind The Curtain: Avant-Garde Fine Dining in Leeds
An avant-garde fine dining experience in Leeds where culinary art meets theatrical presentation in a bold, graffiti-adorned setting.
The Man Behind The Curtain is a cutting-edge fine dining restaurant in Leeds, renowned for its theatrical presentation and inventive tasting menus crafted by chef Michael O’Hare. Located on Vicar Lane above Flannels, this exclusive venue offers a single multi-course tasting menu that blends bold flavors with artistic plating in a striking, graffiti-adorned space. It is a high-end culinary experience that challenges traditional dining with its imaginative dishes and distinctive atmosphere.
A brief summary to The Man Behind The Curtain
- 68-78 Vicar Lane Lower Ground Floor Flannels, Leeds, LS1 7JH, GB
- +441132432376
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
- Thursday 12:30 pm-2 pm
- Friday 12:30 pm-2 pm
- Saturday 12:30 pm-2 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance and be prepared to pay a £40 deposit to secure your tasting menu reservation.
- Inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions ahead of time to ensure a tailored menu experience.
- Expect a multi-hour dining experience with small, artistically presented courses that emphasize creativity.
- Note the limited soft drink options; the focus is primarily on wine pairings and select artisanal sodas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Man Behind The Curtain location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Man Behind The Curtain
A Culinary Theatre of Innovation
The Man Behind The Curtain is not just a restaurant but a stage for culinary artistry led by the visionary chef Michael O’Hare. Known for his bold, avant-garde approach, the restaurant offers a single, elaborate tasting menu that typically includes around nine courses, with additional snacks served beforehand, creating a total of about thirteen unique dishes per visit. Each plate is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, combining unexpected flavor combinations and striking presentations that often evoke a sense of performance art rather than conventional dining.Atmosphere and Interior Character
Situated on the lower ground floor above the Flannels clothing store on Vicar Lane, the venue embraces an edgy, contemporary aesthetic. The interior walls are decorated with vibrant graffiti and pop art by artist Scoph, lending the space a rebellious, urban gallery feel. The seating is designed for comfort and quiet movement, enhancing the focus on the food and the experience. Staff are uniformly dressed in black, maintaining a sleek and professional ambiance that complements the restaurant’s modern artistic vibe.Distinctive Menu and Dining Experience
The restaurant’s tasting menu is a daring exploration of flavors and textures, featuring dishes such as tuna, hake, pork, and sirloin, alongside more adventurous offerings like mackerel balls and Indian-spiced prawns. The food presentation often challenges diners’ expectations, with some courses served on unconventional items or with theatrical flair. While the portions are small, the meal is designed to be a journey lasting around three hours, allowing guests to savor each course thoughtfully. The experience is highly curated, with a focus on creativity and sensory engagement.Service and Guest Interaction
Service at The Man Behind The Curtain is attentive and polished, though some guests note the challenge in securing staff attention at times. The restaurant requires a £40 deposit to book, reflecting its exclusivity and commitment to a fixed menu experience. Dietary requirements can be accommodated if informed in advance, ensuring a tailored experience for guests. The presentation of cutlery in branded boxes, frequently removed and replaced during the meal, adds a curious and unique ritual to the dining process.Reputation and Culinary Impact
Since opening, The Man Behind The Curtain has earned a reputation as one of Leeds’ most innovative and talked-about fine dining destinations. It has garnered acclaim for pushing boundaries in British gastronomy, though its style-over-substance approach has sparked debate among diners. The restaurant’s bold artistic direction and theatrical service set it apart, making it a must-visit for adventurous food lovers seeking a memorable and unconventional culinary adventure.Location and Accessibility
Located centrally in Leeds city center, the restaurant benefits from an urban setting that blends shopping and dining. Its position above a popular retail store adds to the element of discovery, as guests enter through the shop before ascending to the restaurant. This unique approach enhances the sense of exclusivity and surprise that defines the overall experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holy Trinity Church
0.4 km
Discover Leeds’ elegant 18th-century Holy Trinity Church, a Georgian architectural masterpiece and vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Leeds Minster
0.4 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.
The Talbot Hounds Fountain
0.4 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Leeds War Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn and historic tribute in Leeds city center honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War I soldiers.
Statue of John Harrison
0.6 km
Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Tilly + Enzo
0.7 km
Discover tranquility at Tilly + Enzo, a serene shrine in Leeds offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Civic Hall
0.7 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Temple Works
1.3 km
Discover Temple Works, Leeds’ iconic Egyptian Revival flax mill blending industrial heritage with architectural grandeur and future cultural renewal.
Headingley Rectory
3.3 km
Explore the historical beauty of Headingley Rectory, a serene Gothic Revival church in Leeds, perfect for reflection and appreciation of architecture.
Seven Arts
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant arts and culinary scene at Seven Arts, a premier performing arts theatre in Leeds with live music and delicious food.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
3.3 km
Explore the vibrant Chapel Allerton, Leeds, where local culture, unique shops, and diverse dining converge in a charming community atmosphere.
Chapel Allerton Spaces
3.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Chapel Allerton Spaces, a tranquil retreat in Leeds perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Thwaite Watermill
3.4 km
Explore Thwaite Watermill, a historic museum in Leeds that showcases industrial heritage amidst picturesque gardens and the serene River Aire.
Willow Tree
3.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree in Leeds, where nature meets relaxation, perfect for tourists seeking a serene escape.
AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
3.4 km
Discover the heart of rugby culture at AMT Headingley Stadium, Leeds – where thrilling matches and community spirit unite!
Unmissable attractions to see
County Arcade
0.0 km
Explore County Arcade, a Victorian masterpiece in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, where luxury shopping meets stunning stained-glass artistry and historic grandeur.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
0.1 km
Discover Leeds Kirkgate Market, Europe’s largest indoor market blending historic charm with vibrant global flavors and bustling community spirit.
Queens Arcade
0.2 km
Discover Leeds’ Victorian charm and boutique shopping at Queens Arcade, a historic arcade blending heritage with unique retail experiences.
Grand Arcade Clock, Leeds
0.2 km
Discover Leeds’ historic Grand Arcade, a Victorian gem with a unique animated Potts clock and charming vintage architecture.
City Varieties Music Hall
0.2 km
Britain's longest-running music hall, where Victorian charm meets contemporary entertainment.
Thornton's Arcade
0.2 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.
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Ivanhoe Clock and Victorian elegance in Leeds’ historic Thornton’s Arcade, where art, history, and independent shops converge.
Central Arcade
0.3 km
Leeds' vibrant three-storey shopping arcade: trendy boutiques, unique gifts, sushi spots, and creative workshops in a glass-roofed urban gem.
Leeds Corn Exchange
0.3 km
Discover Leeds’ iconic Victorian Corn Exchange, a vibrant hub of independent shops and historic charm in the city centre.
The Core
0.3 km
A vibrant Leeds city centre shopping destination blending retail, dining, and fitness under one roof.
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.
Time Ball Buildings
0.4 km
Historic Victorian landmark on Leeds’ Briggate, famed for its iconic time ball and architectural elegance.
Janie Marie Swann Memorial Bench
0.4 km
A heartfelt memorial bench in Leeds city centre celebrating Janie Marie Swann’s legacy of community, hope, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Trinity Leeds
0.4 km
Experience vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment beneath Trinity Leeds’ iconic glass dome in the heart of the city.
Jonny's Pitch
0.4 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
The Man Behind The Curtain
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A bold, artistic fine dining experience in Leeds where culinary innovation meets theatrical presentation and urban edge.
The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds
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Elegant British brasserie in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter, blending Art Deco glamour with classic and contemporary cuisine for all-day dining.
The Ivy Asia Leeds
0.1 km
Experience luxurious pan-Asian dining and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Leeds’ stylish Victoria Quarter.
The Cut & Craft Leeds
0.1 km
Historic charm meets premium steakhouse dining in the heart of Leeds with vibrant atmosphere and craft cocktails.
Ox Club
0.1 km
A vibrant modern British grill in Leeds’ historic mill, famed for smoky wood-fired cooking and bold, locally sourced flavors.
Thai a Roy Dee
0.2 km
Authentic Thai flavors and generous portions in a casual Leeds setting with a BYOB policy and unbeatable value.
Casa Leeds
0.2 km
Experience authentic South American gluten-free tapas and vibrant culture in Leeds’ historic Grand Arcade.
Zaap Thai Street Food Leeds
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and buzzing atmosphere of Bangkok street food in Leeds’ Grand Arcade at Zaap Thai Street Food.
Chef Jono at V&V
0.3 km
Experience innovative Modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus crafted by Masterchef finalist Jono Hawthorne in the heart of Leeds.
Eat Your Greens
0.3 km
Organic dining and natural wines in Leeds city centre, blending seasonal creativity with a relaxed, sustainable vibe.
Angelica & Crafthouse
0.3 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining and cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with stunning views and modern British cuisine.
Lost & Found Leeds Club
0.3 km
Step into Victorian grandeur and modern mixology at Lost & Found Leeds Club, a captivating dining and cocktail destination in the city centre.
The Botanist Trinity Leeds
0.3 km
A lush, botanical gastropub beneath Trinity Leeds, serving inventive cocktails, British classics, and live weekend music in a greenhouse-inspired space.
Bill's Leeds Restaurant
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A vibrant British restaurant in Leeds offering diverse, seasonal dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere with a touch of rustic charm.
The Swine That Dines
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Experience cosy, creative modern British cuisine with a warm welcome in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cow Vintage
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Explore ethical vintage fashion in Leeds’ historic County House with Cow Vintage’s curated, sustainable collection and spacious shopping experience.
Anthropologie
0.0 km
Distinctive women’s fashion and homewares in Leeds’ elegant Victoria Gate shopping district.
& Other Stories
0.1 km
Scandinavian-inspired fashion in Leeds' most architecturally celebrated shopping destination.
John Lewis & Partners
0.1 km
Leeds’ largest John Lewis store located in the vibrant Victoria Gate, offering extensive shopping and expert services in a modern, accessible setting.
Intrigue Fashion
0.1 km
Discover stylish ladies' clothing and accessories in the heart of Leeds Kirkgate Market at Intrigue Fashion.
Open Lifestyle Store
0.2 km
Discover stylish, quality men's fashion in the historic charm of Leeds’ Thornton's Arcade at Open Lifestyle Store.
Blue Rinse
0.2 km
Leeds’ oldest vintage shop offering curated, sustainable, and iconic retro fashion across multiple floors at 14 Call Lane.
Montblanc Boutique Leeds
0.2 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Montblanc Boutique Leeds, your premier destination for luxury watches and accessories.
Tomorrow Store
0.2 km
Discover gender-neutral fashion and unique homewares at Leeds’ independent Tomorrow Store in the historic Central Arcade.
Grand Arcade
0.2 km
Discover Leeds’ historic Victorian arcade, a vibrant hub of independent shops, vintage cafes, and iconic clockwork charm.
The Allotment Store
0.2 km
Leeds’ leading boutique for avant-garde designer menswear and exclusive high-end fashion collections.
Yellow Sunrise
0.2 km
Discover Leeds’ vibrant metaphysical shop in Central Arcade, where colorful curiosities and spiritual treasures await every visitor.
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.
Hidden Wardrobe
0.3 km
Discover curated cashmere, jewelry, and alternative fashion in the iconic Leeds Corn Exchange—a hidden gem for unique style and gifts.
BEST
0.3 km
Discover authentic vintage streetwear and sustainable fashion at BEST, a family-run boutique in the heart of Leeds city centre’s vibrant New Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Headrow House
0.1 km
Leeds' multi-floor gem in a historic mill: unpasteurized beers, grilled seasonal feasts, rooftop skyline views, and live music beats.
North Bar
0.2 km
Leeds’ original craft beer pioneer offering an eclectic selection of beers and cocktails in a quirky, cosy setting since 1997.
The Maven
0.2 km
Step into The Maven, Leeds’ stylish 1920s speakeasy bar where expert cocktails and lively late-night parties create unforgettable nights.
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Leeds
0.2 km
Deep South dive bar shrine to Johnny Cash: free pizzas, dice-rolling free drinks, cocktails till 4am in Leeds' party heart.
MOJO
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Leeds' rock 'n' roll dive bar: killer cocktails, guitar anthems, and late-night grit since '96. Arm yourself for unpretentious Northern Quarter revelry.
Whitelock's Ale House
0.3 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.
Jake's Bar & Still Room
0.3 km
Lively Leeds cocktail bar on Call Lane with expert drinks, intimate lighting, and a buzzing late-night atmosphere.
Blind Tyger
0.3 km
Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
Tiki Hideaway
0.3 km
Escape to Leeds’ original tiki bar for tropical cocktails, vibrant vibes, and a 1950s Polynesian island party right in the city centre.
Cuckoo
0.3 km
A colorful, quirky cocktail bar in Leeds city centre with free pizzas, adventurous drinks, and vibrant party vibes until the early hours.
Roland's Leeds
0.3 km
A lively city centre bar with a welcoming rooftop terrace, exceptional craft drinks, and renowned pizzas in the heart of Leeds.
Smokestack
0.4 km
A stylish Leeds cocktail bar and live music venue blending bluesy vibes with expertly crafted drinks and lively nights out.
The Alchemist Trinity
0.4 km
Experience Leeds’ premier cocktail bar blending molecular mixology, stunning rooftop views, and vibrant dining at The Alchemist Trinity.
Be At One - Boar Lane Leeds
0.4 km
Lively Leeds city centre cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, daily happy hours, plush booths, and a spacious outdoor terrace.
The Shed Bar
0.5 km
Leeds’ iconic indie music bar beneath a railway arch, famed for cocktails, rare whiskies, and a vibrant live music scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Wire
0.2 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 Lab Nightclub Leeds
0.2 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The HiFi Club
0.3 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
0.3 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
The Space
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Backroom
0.4 km
A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
The Key Club
0.4 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
0.4 km
Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
Home Nightclub Leeds
0.4 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Quadrophenia Night
0.4 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.
PRYZM
0.5 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
Popworld - Leeds
0.7 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
The Warehouse
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Artistic
- Lively
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Business Friendly
