A Hidden Gem on York Place Serving Authentic Thai Flavours in the Heart of Leeds
First Impressions: Authenticity from the First Step Down
As soon as you descend the modest steps into the restaurant, something shifts. A familiar, unmistakable aroma hits, lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, something sweet, something spicy. You’re greeted not just with a smile but with the melodic warmth of a traditional Thai accent. It’s more than service, it feels like a welcome.
The décor is simple yet characterful: dark wood accents, golden Thai artefacts, and cosy, dim lighting that feels intimate but not cramped. With seating for just a handful of tables, the space exudes a boutique feel that instantly sets the stage for something special.
A Family Meal with Sophisticated Flavours
We visited on a Saturday evening at 7pm. The space was quiet on arrival, with couples and small groups beginning to filter in by the hour. Our group included our 11-year-old daughter, a budding foodie with a dislike for heavy spice, and every dish pleased her palate without compromise.
What We Ate – Flavour-Packed and Perfectly Executed
Thai Sample Platter
A sharing starter that sings, vegetable spring rolls, Thai fish cakes, pork dumplings, corn cakes, and chicken satay. Each bite was packed with bold, clean flavours. The satay was smoky, the dumplings tender and juicy, and the fish cakes had real bounce.
Pad Nam Prik Pao Beef
Beef strips stir-fried in roasted chilli paste, deep, savoury, and moreish. Not overly spicy, just intensely flavoured. An ideal match with sticky jasmine rice.
Chicken Massaman Curry
Nutty, sweet, and comforting, a creamy coconut base with gentle warmth. Packed with tender chicken and crunchy peanuts. This dish is unforgettable.
Crispy Duck with Tamarind Sauce
The star of the evening. Perfectly crisped skin, succulent meat, and a tangy-sweet tamarind sauce that brought balance and brightness. Absolutely divine.
Service That Matches the Food
The waiting staff are not only attentive but impressively knowledgeable, so much so that we handed over the reins and let them choose our dishes for us. After asking a few thoughtful questions about our preferences and spice tolerance, they curated a selection that suited us perfectly. Their ability to explain dishes, ingredients, and flavour profiles with ease made the experience feel bespoke. Service was swift yet unhurried, and as the evening grew busier, the calm, welcoming atmosphere never wavered.
Style vs Substance – And Why This Place Wins
Forget the Instagrammable chains and polished cocktail menus. My Thai is about substance. Real Thai cooking, real hospitality, and incredible value. It’s not flashy, but it’s fabulous where it counts.
Why It Works for You
- A romantic date night spot with atmosphere
- A quiet pre-theatre dinner location
- A family-friendly space for adventurous young diners
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Authentic Thai flavours, not too spicy | Small – booking advised for weekends |
| Excellent value for money | Limited accessibility (below street level) |
| Warm, helpful service |
A Thai Secret Worth Sharing
So here it is: my not-so-secret anymore secret. My Thai at The Old Steps might just be the best Thai in Leeds. It’s not trying to be trendy. It’s just trying to be good. And it succeeds on every level, taste, authenticity, and value.
If you love Thai food, and you love uncovering gems before everyone else does, make a booking, and don’t skip the duck.
If You Go…
📍 Address: 26 York Place, Leeds, LS1 2EY
🕖 Best Time to Visit: Early evening or weekday dinners
📞 Booking: Highly recommended
💳 Payment: Cash & Card Accepted
🍽 Must Try: Tamarind duck, Massaman curry, sample platter