This spring, Leeds will see the opening of Agni, a new rooftop cocktail bar that promises to ignite the city’s bar scene. Agni, meaning ‘fire’ in Sanskrit and Hindi, will be part of UYARE by Tharavadu, a modern Keralan small plates restaurant set to make a splash in the city.
Agni aims to offer an immersive drinking experience with a cocktail menu inspired by the five elements of life. The menu, created in collaboration with renowned mixologist Filippos Filippopoulos from Tabula Rasa, will begin with the concept of Agni. Each season will introduce a new sensory journey. Filippopoulos, a seasoned bartender from Leeds with over 17 years of experience in the UK and Greece, launched the iconic Tabula Rasa in 2021. This all-day café and cocktail bar transitions from serving coffee and pastries in the morning to offering aperitivo and small plates in the evening, ending with classic cocktails and cheese and cured meats at night.
Drawing inspiration from top establishments in Athens and New York, Filippopoulos aims to bring a dynamic day-to-night service model to Leeds. Like UYARE, Tabula Rasa supports local businesses by sourcing ingredients from Leeds’ Kirkgate Market and collaborating with regional suppliers, including gin distillers.
The inaugural menu at Agni will focus on fire, reflecting both the bar’s name and the passion behind its drinks. Expect theatrical, smoky cocktails with bold, spice-driven flavors that balance heat and intrigue. Early previews hint at a reimagined Gimlet featuring Woodford Reserve. Each element’s menu will include three signature drinks, including a carefully crafted mocktail, ensuring an inclusive and innovative drinking experience.
As the seasons change, so will the menu, showcasing inventive mixology and seasonal ingredients. With stunning views over the city and an atmosphere that shifts between intimate and lively, Agni is set to become Leeds’ most talked-about drinking destination.
Eshaan Kapoor, Drinks Buyer and Operations Director of UYARE by Tharavadu, expressed excitement about the partnership: “Tharavadu is built on friendship—five friends started this journey, and with UYARE, more friends are joining our family. Filippos, who runs one of the top 15 cocktail bars in the country, is the most talented mixologist I have ever met. His expertise will elevate our guests’ drinking experience, with each cocktail telling a unique story.
“The fire element is just the beginning—expect a drinking experience that evolves with the seasons, summer events, and more exciting details to be revealed soon!”
For more information, visit the Tharavadu website: www.tharavadurestaurants.com.