York’s restaurants and pubs certainly offer a wide choice and here are some of the best places to dine. Renowned chef Tommy Banks and his family-run restaurant rated the finest in the world according to TripAdvisor – the Black Swan at Oldstead. Confirming his position as one of Britain’s chefs to watch, Neil Bentinck saw his Micklegate restaurant Skosh awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide in 2017. Skosh is based around the concept of snacks and small plates – its name comes from the Japanese word Sukoshi, meaning a small amount. Mr P’s Curious Tavern is found on Low Petergate. Mr P is Andrew Pern, the man behind both the Star Inn The City and its rural forerunner, the Star at Harome. Mr P’s is a quirky, 80-cover restaurant, also serving small plates alongside a unique wine list.
Vaqueiros brought a new concept to York – the Brazilian rodizio. For a set price, a selection of meat or fish is cooked on large skewers and carved at your table. You can keep the food coming by displaying a green disk, or to pause you display a red disk. Vaqueiros is found at the city end of Micklegate. Michelin-starred chef Adam Jackson runs his restaurant, The Park, at Marmadukes Hotel in St Peter’s Grove. You are recommended to linger over the four-course menu which has won rave reviews.
If it’s something that bit more central you’re looking for, the area south of York Minster is teeming with places to eat and drink. Directly in the shadow of the cathedral is the Dean Court Hotel. Its two AA Rosette DCH restaurant serves up a menu of lamb, fish and steak dishes. If you’re an Italian fan, Lucia Wine Bar & Grill is worth seeking out. Tucked away in a corner of Swinegate, this relaxed, family-run venue offers everything from pizza and pasta to simple nibbles.
Our picks
Roots York
Roots York can be found in a converted riverside pub on Marygate. Dishes are created around seasonal produce, much of it grown by the team themselves. There are tasting and sharing menus, and they also serve a mean cocktail. Visit website
The Rise at The Grand, York
The Rise is the restaurant at York’s only five-star hotel, The Grand. Inspired by the Edwardian former railway headquarters which houses the hotel, it has dark oak panelling and a pressed tin ceiling. The Rise serves English cuisine given a modern twist, classic afternoon tea and cocktails like the rum-laden Ghosts Of York. Visit website
Walmgate Ale House
The award-winning Walmgate Ale House is run by York’s food festival director, and its Chopping Block restaurant celebrates seasonal food with special events focusing on game, asparagus and lobster. Visit website
Caesars Pizzeria and Ristorante
27-29 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LS
Caesars Pizzeria and Ristorante has been a highly popular fixture for years. Found on the corner where Goodramgate bends away from the Minster, its informal atmosphere and trustworthy Italian menu makes it a favoured venue for everything from a family night out to a workplace celebration. Visit website
Brew & Brownie
Brew & Brownie sits in a cosy spot on Museum Street offering sandwiches, snacks, light meals – and the two things mentioned in its name of course. Enjoy locally-sourced fare and house-baked sweets are served with craft coffee and tea drinks. Visit website
