York is a city that is full of historic landmarks, quaint cobbled pathways, local shops, nearby countryside walks and incredible culinary experiences. Here, we explore 15 of the best restaurants in York.
From family-run cafes to award-winning gourmet cuisine, when it comes to good food, York has a little something for everyone. The city has a growing reputation amongst Britain’s foodies who seek out its popular street food eats and unique dining experiences. As the birthplace of the Yorkshire Pudding, you can expect to find plenty of traditional fare alongside innovative ideas and an abundance of local ingredients. Here are 15 restaurants in York you need to try.
1. Melton’s
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Meltons restaurant in York was opened by Michael and Lucy Hjort in 1990, since then they have been serving modern British food that is totally raved about. If you want to enjoy high-quality food and a luxurious dining experience, this is a fantastic option. Melton’s features in all major food guides, and has two AA Rosettes. With a focus on sustainability, high-quality produce and tasty food, visit Melton’s next time you’re in York.
Address: 7 Scarcroft Rd, York, YO23 1ND
2. Source
Fancy something vegan? Source is for you, it’s an innovative, independent restaurant in York. They are focused on homemade vegan and vegetarian dishes solely and feature delicious plant-based meat. They work with local producers, beer brewers and amazing gin distillers within York. You have to check Source out if you want great quality, creative, honest, and healthy food.
Address: 1 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RN
3. 31 Castlegate
Dinner by candlelight in the former house of Georgian architect G.T Andrews, what could be better? This Grade II listed building impresses with original fireplaces and period decor. 31 Castlegate serves up delicious contemporary modern European dishes using fresh and seasonal ingredients all locally produced. There is even an entire vegan menu.
Address: 31 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RN
4. Skosh
Considered by many as one of the best restaurants in York, Skosh aims to create a totally unique dining experience which serves refined, high-quality food in a comfortable dining room. The menu packs a selection of beautifully prepared small plates that are great for sharing with friends. Or you can enjoy the course by course dining experience. Check out their wine journal, seasonal cocktails and varied selection of local and international craft beers.
Address: 98 Micklegate, York, YO1 6JX
5. Dean Court
If you are looking for a York restaurant for all of the family, Dean Court is welcoming, friendly, and will even allow your dog to pop in too. It’s against the spectacular backdrop of York Minster and they have lots to offer here whether you fancy a full meal, just a quick bite for lunch or a spectacular afternoon tea.
Address: Duncombe Pl, York, YO1 7EF
6. Madness
This eccentric restaurant offers something a little unique. It is designed to resemble a medieval ale house with taxidermy animals across the walls and Belgian beers on tap. Food is served all day long with bar snacks, authentic Yorkshire ingredients, and craft beer all around. It’s a real casual place where visitors and locals mingle over a good pint and hearty food. Their food is all sourced from the best that Yorkshire has to offer, here you will find true Yorkshire spirit (that means large portions!)
Address: 48 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AS
7. Rustique
Another restaurant in York where the answer is in the name, Rustique is all about rustic French food. The idea here is to provide a typical French dining experience with traditionally cooked fish and meat dishes. If you haven’t done so already, maybe this is the place to try Escargot for the first time. Other French classics include Moules Mariniere. Wash it down with a selection of French and international wines.
Address: 28 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RP
8. The Star Inn the City
Located in an old engine house and conveniently perched along the riverbank, on the edge of the York Museum Gardens is The Star Inn the City. It is an elegant brasserie-style restaurant with good old Yorkshire hospitality. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks on the riverside terrace, this popular restaurant is a great place to go for incredible local food. The menu here changes, following the seasons. It’s a great place to visit again and again.
Address: Lendal Engine House, Museum St, York, YO1 7DR
9. Le Cochon Aveugle
Can’t decide what to eat? Le Cochon Aveugle is an intimate restaurant in York which serves a blind tasting menu. Featuring the very best produce available combined with classic French techniques, this is an experience not to be missed. All you have to do is notify them in advance of any dietary requirements, rock up to your table reservation, and wait for the dishes to arrive. This blind tasting concept has become very popular with diners curious to see what Head Chef Josh Overington and his team will prepare.
Address: 37 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TX
10. The Pig and Pastry
The Pig and Pastry is a real quirky family-run cafe with a typical Yorkshire charm. Breakfast has become a big deal here with many food critics and bloggers keen to share their positive experiences. The family are well known for their outgoing personality and the friendly chit chat that takes place at this popular local eatery. Don’t leave here without a cake!
Address: 35 Bishopthorpe Rd, York, YO23 1NA
11. Los Moros
Take a wander through York’s fabulous market and you will find Los Moros; a North African Kitchen. Their street food stall is open every day in the Shambles Market, 11.30-5 pm. Setting itself apart from the city’s other eateries, this street food restaurant boasts a wide variety of dishes set within a lovely courtyard garden. The homemade hummus and falafel steal the show with mouth-watering flavours. Los Moros also supplies its own pickles and preserves and sources everything else within Yorkshire including beer and tea.
Address: 15-17 Grape Ln, York, YO1 7HU
12. Sotano
For a night of creative cocktails and great sharing dishes, Sotano is the place. The food here is Meditteranean served tapas-style with a selection of grilled fish, meats, veggies, olives, croquettes, and tortillas. High-quality ingredients provide guests with authentic flavours. There are also 27 different gins and 60 beers to choose from, making it a great place to enjoy with friends.
Address: 1 Little Stonegate, York, YO1 8AX
13. Coconut Lagoon
Coconut Lagoon takes Indian food to the next level with its high-quality South Indian cuisine. The chefs at Coconut Lagoon pride themselves on creating authentic tasting dishes in a casual setting. To keep this authenticity, some dishes are prepared and served on a banana leaf. As with most Indian restaurants in the UK, you can expect to find popular curries including Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Biryani. There is also plenty of dosa, seafood, and veggie dishes to choose from.
Address: 56 Clarence St, York, YO31 7EW
14. Partisan
On Micklegate in York, you will find Partisan, an independent coffee shop, licensed restaurant and arts space. They work with established art dealers and regularly host exhibitions for local and national artists. A lot of the objects and furniture you will find here are for sale. They feature a seasonal menu as they have a close relationship with local producers. They serve an all-day breakfast and brunch menu as well as showing off quirky chef’s daily specials. Gluten-free and vegan options are always available. This is a true local gem, particularly popular with those who value a real community vibe.
Address: 112 Micklegate, York, YO1 6JX
15. Allium
This is a choice for the foodies out there! Allium is an intimate culinary concept which is led by top chef Luke Sanderson. The Allium Tasting Menu is an exciting 6-course journey, which is served to only 14 guests at a time. This is more than just delicious food, it’s an experience which will immerse you in flavour and fragrance. You can choose to watch the chefs in the dining room or enjoy your meal in the Wine Room. This is an amazing treat to celebrate something special.
Address: 15 Alma Terrace, York, YO10 4DQ
Were passionate about food, and we love to try new places. Let us know in the comments if you have tried any of these 15 restaurants in York and your experiences.
*Photos were all taken from the restaurant’s respective Facebook accounts.
