York is one of my favourite places to visit in the north of England for so many reasons. I was lucky enough to have lived there some years ago and love going back regularly to enjoy the thriving city. York is easily accessible by train from many destinations, so perfect for a day out. There is also plenty to do so a top choice for a mini break.
With so much to do in and around the city, it is important to plan ahead and make the most of your time there. Whether you are seeking culture from the museums, galleries and theatres, a leisurely meander around the many independent shops in the historic city centre, or food and drink in one (or a few!) of the wonderful restaurants. York is the city that really can please everyone. Let’s focus on the fabulous food in York.
Betty’s
You can’t really visit York without taking a trip to Betty’s. Serving in their stunning surroundings since 1936, Betty’s is the ultimate in decadence and classic luxury. Start your day here with one of their delicious brunch dishes, or take their iconic afternoon tea. Whatever you have, be sure to pick up some of their wonderful cakes to take home. Don’t forget the famous Yorkshire fat rascals!
Chocolate Tour

York is a city of chocolate, being proudly home to Nestle Rowntree and Terry’s. You are able to take an interactive chocolate tour ,get involved in a bean to bar learning, or take one of the many chocolate making classes on offer. I recently loved the chocolate bar making workshop and enjoyed tasting my efforts on the train ride home.
Roots

Roots York is the latest venture from talented chef Tommy Banks (of the family run and Michelin starred restaurant The Black Swan) who has put Yorkshire food well and truly on the map. This is a great addition to the quality restaurants in York city centre. Tasting plates of delicious food with a menu that changes around the seasons. There is a cosy upstairs bar to have a drink before you begin your meal, and the small plates menu allows for plenty of sociable sharing.
The cooking is inventive, imaginative and extremely skilful and the feast menu (chef’s choice of tasting dishes for you to try) is extremely generous. Yorkshire food at it best and most definitely one of the best (or the best) restaurants in York city centre.
Star in the City

The Star in the City in York is the second venue for Andrew Pern, the original being the Michelin-starred Star Inn at Harome . Overlooking the museum gardens, the location is stunning. The restaurant, although large, gives a sense of calm and cosiness. Above all though, the food is really great! The menu has a wide variety of choice, so has something to please all diners. Produce is local where possible and portions are generous. They also have tasty cocktails on offer. A really great place to hang out and watch the world go by in style.
With so many places to eat in York the difficult part is choosing which ones to visit. Whichever you decide to try, be sure to book in advance as they are all busy and popular for very good reason. We hope that you have a wonderful food filled trip to beautiful York.
This wonderful article is a guest post from Melanie Varey, writer at https://bestthingstodoincambridge.co.uk/ and https://twoplusdogs.co.uk/ make sure you check her out!
You might also like:

