Where to eat and drink in York: a guide to the city’s food scene

Wondering where to eat and drink in York? As a food lover and a big fan of the city, I’ve put together my list of must-visit spots, from classic British dishes and afternoon tea to international street food, craft beer and wine. These were my favourites when I visited. Independent places and menus change, so it’s worth checking they’re open before you go.

Staying over? Read my Principal York Hotel review, or see my tips for a budget weekend in York.

Where to drink in York

Brew York Beer Hall

Brew York is a microbrewery and taproom a short walk from York station, with an extensive range of beers on tap, from classic IPAs to experimental sours. It has a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, and the staff are happy to make recommendations and let you try before you buy.

If you’re peckish, there’s a Korean BBQ street food kitchen on site, YUZU. Its fried chicken is amazingly good and washes down very nicely with a pint.

Pairings Wine Bar: York’s best wine and charcuterie

For something more refined, head to Pairings Wine Bar in the heart of York. This intimate bar has an impressive selection of wines from around the world, and a small but perfectly formed menu of seasonal dishes. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are always happy to suggest pairings, making it great for a date night or special occasion.

I thoroughly recommend a sharing board. The cheese board in particular has a spectacular mix of cheeses, crackers, chutneys and crudités, and it tastes as good as it looks.

Where to eat in York

Refectory Kitchen and Terrace

Inside the Principal York hotel, the Refectory has a contemporary, stylish interior and a menu focused on modern British food with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner, there are plenty of delicious options, and in summer the terrace is a lovely spot to eat al fresco.

Shambles Street Food Market

For a taste of international food in the centre of York, head to the Shambles Street Food Market, with vendors serving everything from Spanish tapas to Thai street food. These were my favourite stalls:

• Thai Season: a popular choice for dishes like pad Thai and green curry.
• Los Moros: a must-visit for delicious Moroccan-inspired wraps and bowls.
• Krep: if you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the crêpes.

With its lively atmosphere and huge variety, the market is a great place for a quick, tasty meal.

Spark York

Spark York is a unique creative hub built from recycled shipping containers, home to independent food and drink vendors, artisan shops and even a hair salon.

Meat lovers shouldn’t miss Clucking Oinks, with the most incredible buttermilk fried chicken, plus succulent slow-cooked pork belly and ribs cooked over an open flame for a smoky flavour. The portions are generous, and the homemade barbecue sauce is the perfect partner.

Bettys Tea Rooms

Still got room for dessert? No visit to York is complete without Bettys Tea Rooms. This iconic institution has been serving traditional afternoon tea in York since 1937 (the first Bettys opened in Harrogate in 1919). The menu includes scones with clotted cream and jam, plus dainty sandwiches and cakes, and with its charming Art Deco décor and attentive service, it’s a really special place to treat yourself.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re after a craft beer near the station, a glass of wine and a cheese board, street food at the Shambles or afternoon tea at Bettys, York’s food scene has you covered. Come hungry. If you have longer, you could carry on to the North Yorkshire coast for fish and chips.

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