The hidden gem on the Lower Ground of LUU is Old Bar. Old Bar left a mark on me as soon as I first visited Leeds Uni. I could see myself sat in there doing pub quizzes. And now look at me, it’s Thursday evening, and that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Old Bar is the perfect venue at any time of the day, whether you want to chill between lectures, catch up with mates or even for a date. While of course Old Bar is known for its ‘Real Ale’, my personal highlight of Old Bar has got to be their legendary Potato Stacks. If you haven’t tried these yet, then what are you waiting for?

As a first-year, I feel that I am now a fully-fledged member of Leeds Uni by saying that I have consumed not once but twice, those loaded stacks of heaven; for only £4.50, I could eat this as an entire meal. Choose your potato, toppings, sauce, cheese and voila. Of course, Leeds Uni is home to many budding vegans and vegetarians, so there are plenty of options available if you’re looking for some meat-free munch.

Let’s talk prices. My favourite page on the entire menu is the student savers section. Broke but starving? Live in Headingley or further and can’t be bothered to go home back for lunch? Then this is your answer. The cheesy beans on toast for £3 is surprisingly worthy of the price. Sure, you could cook it at home, but I guarantee when you see someone else walk past with their plate flowing with beans and a mountain of cheese, you will not be able to resist. Well, I couldn’t anyway.

The sandwiches, burgers and hotdogs are also incredibly reasonable, and there are so many options. I tried Old Bar’s hot fish finger sandwich, a classic. It was pretty good, and for only £3.75, I can justify that. All come served with some salad too, so a healthier option than the usual McDonalds lunch.

My friends are huge fans of Old Bar’s curly fries and continue to berate me for not liking curly fries. However, I will never turn them down when the leftovers come my way, even when they’re cold. So, if chips and fries are what you’re after, then Old Bar is a good option. Both their fries and chips are good quality and at low prices too.

If you’re looking for the authentic Yorkshire experience, then Old Bar has it, providing bangers and mash or chicken in a Yorkshire pudding soaked in gravy. I’ve heard great things, and all for just £6.

The atmosphere and vibe of Old Bar are perfect, the menu is varied, and they even offer desserts if you’re looking to treat yourself after a laborious day at the library.

Can I fault Old Bar at all? Well, their service can sometimes mean you get your food at different times to your mates, and on the odd occasions, the food can be slightly cold. Depending on your budget, some of the food is a little pricey, but mostly my problem is that I keep coming back and spending more and more money. 

Old Bar host different events too, such as quiz nights, and it’s also the perfect place to catch the latest football matches. Make sure you keep an eye out for their special events, or just head down there as soon as you can and get the perfect Old Bar experience with potato stacks and a nice cold pint. You’ll thank me later!

Lauren Woodley