Domo Opens Sardinian Restaurant at Leeds Tower Works

Key Points

• Award-winning Sardinian restaurant Domo is opening its first location in Leeds at the iconic Tower Works site.
• The new venue occupies a 2,841sq ft canal-side space, providing around 95 indoor covers and outdoor seating for 25.
• Domo was founded in Sheffield in 2019 by husband-and-wife team Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu, with a mission to celebrate traditional Sardinian food culture.
• The Leeds menu will feature rustic and authentic Sardinian flavours, including dishes rarely seen outside Sardinia, all made entirely in-house.
• Additional offerings include a daily lunch menu with takeaway options for local residents and office workers, plus weekend breakfasts, positioning it as an all-day destination in the South Bank neighbourhood.
• Domo Co-Owner Sarah Elliott-Busceddu described the opening as a “huge milestone,” highlighting the couple’s love for Leeds and excitement to join the city’s independent food scene.

Leeds (The Leeds Times) February 6, 2026 – Award-winning Sardinian restaurant Domo is poised to introduce its authentic soul food to Leeds‘ vibrant independent dining landscape with a new opening at the iconic Tower Works. The 2,841sq ft canal-side venue will offer 95 indoor covers and space for 25 outdoors, bringing rare Sardinian dishes to the city’s South Bank. Founded by Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu in Sheffield in 2019, Domo’s expansion underscores its commitment to rustic, in-house prepared flavours that honour the island’s culinary heritage.​

What is Domo’s Background and Founding Story?

Domo emerged in Sheffield in 2019, established by the husband-and-wife duo Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu, driven by a passion to showcase traditional Sardinian food culture. The founders’ mission centred on celebrating the island’s rustic authenticity, a ethos that defined their debut venue and now extends to Leeds. As reported in the original announcement, Domo has earned acclaim as an award-winning establishment, building a loyal following through dishes that evoke Sardinia’s soulful gastronomy.

The couple’s personal connection to Sardinian cuisine stems from Raffaele Busceddu’s heritage, paired with Sarah Elliott-Busceddu’s dedication to preserving its traditions. Their Sheffield restaurant set a benchmark by prioritising in-house preparation, avoiding mass-produced elements to ensure every plate reflects genuine island techniques. This foundation has propelled Domo’s growth, with Leeds marking a pivotal second site after years of success in South Yorkshire.​

Where Exactly is Domo Leeds Opening?

Tower Works, an iconic Leeds landmark, will house Domo’s new outpost in a prime 2,841sq ft canal-side space. This location enhances the venue’s appeal, blending industrial heritage with waterside charm in the bustling South Bank neighbourhood. Indoor seating accommodates around 95 covers, while outdoor areas seat 25, catering to diners year-round.

The site’s selection was deliberate, as the owners identified its potential immediately upon discovery. Tower Works’ prominence positions Domo to integrate seamlessly into Leeds’ independent food scene, drawing locals and visitors alike. Its canal proximity promises atmospheric dining, amplifying the Sardinian escape amid urban surroundings.​

What Menu Highlights Can Diners Expect?

Diners at Domo Leeds will encounter a menu championing rustic Sardinian flavours, featuring dishes seldom found beyond the island, all crafted entirely in-house. Expect hearty, authentic preparations that capture the essence of Sardinian soul food, from pasta to grilled meats infused with regional herbs and techniques. The commitment to in-house production ensures freshness and fidelity to tradition.

Beyond dinner, the venue introduces versatility with a daily lunch menu, including takeaway options tailored for nearby residents and office workers. Weekend breakfasts further solidify its role as an all-day hub, broadening appeal across meal times. This multifaceted approach distinguishes Domo from typical restaurants, fostering daily patronage in South Bank.​

Who are the Key Figures Behind Domo?

Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu form the heart of Domo, as co-owners and visionaries since its 2019 inception in Sheffield. Sarah Elliott-Busceddu, speaking as Domo Co-Owner, shared her enthusiasm:

“Opening our second restaurant feels incredibly special. Domo started as a shared dream, built from years of hard work and a deep love for Sardinian food culture and to be bringing that passion to Leeds is a huge milestone for us and one we’re really proud of.

We both spend a lot of time in Leeds and we absolutely love the city and the people. When we discovered the site at Tower Works, we knew instantly it had to be the home of Domo Leeds. We’re so excited to join the incredible indie food scene here and become part of the local community.”​

Raffaele Busceddu complements his wife’s vision with his Sardinian roots, ensuring culinary authenticity. Together, their partnership has elevated Domo to award-winning status, blending personal passion with professional execution. Their frequent visits to Leeds informed the expansion, reflecting a genuine affinity for the city.

Why is This Opening Significant for Leeds?

Leeds’ independent food scene gains a distinctive addition through Domo, injecting Sardinian authenticity into its diverse culinary tapestry. The South Bank neighbourhood, known for innovation, welcomes this venue as a community anchor, promising all-day appeal via lunches, takeaways, and breakfasts. Tower Works’ prestige elevates the project’s profile, potentially drawing food enthusiasts citywide.

For the owners, the move represents a milestone after Sheffield’s triumphs, affirming Domo’s scalability while staying true to roots. Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu’s love for Leeds underscores the venture’s sincerity, positioning it to thrive amid competitors. This expansion highlights the city’s allure for niche, high-quality dining.

How Does Domo Differentiate Itself?

Domo stands apart by prioritising dishes “rarely seen outside Sardinia,” all made in-house to preserve purity. Unlike chains relying on suppliers, every element from sauces to breads emerges from its kitchens, echoing Sardinian home cooking. This hands-on ethos, core since 2019, ensures an immersive experience.

The all-day model—lunches with takeaways, weekend breakfasts—caters to modern lifestyles, serving office crowds and families. At 95 indoor and 25 outdoor covers, the space balances intimacy with capacity, suiting Leeds’ dynamic pace. Award-winning pedigree from Sheffield signals quality, building anticipation.

What Role Does Tower Works Play?

Tower Works’ iconic status provides an ideal canvas for Domo Leeds, its canal-side setting enhancing the Sardinian theme with serene views. The 2,841sq ft footprint allows generous layout for 95 covers indoors and 25 al fresco, maximising usability. As a heritage site, it aligns with Domo’s rustic narrative, bridging old-world charm and contemporary dining.

Owners Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu’s instant affinity for the location reflects strategic foresight. Integrating into South Bank’s ecosystem, it bolsters the area’s reputation as a foodie haven. Canal proximity invites passersby, amplifying footfall.

When Will Domo Leeds Launch?

While the announcement heralds the opening, specifics on the precise launch date remain tied to final preparations at Tower Works. Given the February 6, 2026, reveal from Leeds (The Leeds Times), developments suggest an imminent debut, aligning with the city’s lively spring calendar. Founders anticipate swift community integration post-launch.​

Monitoring local updates will clarify timelines, but the ethos promises prompt delivery of Sardinian delights. Daily lunch and weekend breakfasts indicate readiness for immediate operation.

Broader Impact on Leeds Food Scene

Domo’s arrival enriches Leeds’ independent sector, introducing underrepresented Sardinian cuisine to discerning palates. South Bank’s evolution as a gastronomic node accelerates, with Domo’s all-day versatility attracting diverse crowds. Award-winning credentials position it as a benchmark for authenticity.

For Sarah Elliott-Busceddu and Raffaele Busceddu, it’s a dream realised, exporting Sheffield success northward. Their statement captures communal excitement: pride in joining “the incredible indie food scene” and embedding in local fabric. This neutral expansion promises cultural enrichment without fanfare.