Welcome to York! City of ghosts, rich with Roman history and, in all honesty, home to some of the best food I’ve ever tasted. When you settle into your new student city everything may feel quite daunting, and I can bet on it that a delicious meal and a few drinks with new friends will ease the process. As a self-proclaimed food blogger and having spent most of my first year eating my way through York, I’m here to save the day and reveal York’s crème de la crème of Food and Drink!
10. The Postern Gate
It would be sacrilegious to not include Spoons on this list, you get what you’d expect – cheap alcohol, cheap pub food and a whole lot of memories. The Postern Gate is one of the two Wetherspoons in York City and by far the superior for students with its lively atmosphere, sticky floors and deafening volumes. Perfect for a night with friends and often used as a pre-drinks location before heading to the club. When thinking of a night out on a budget then this is your best bet, with a pint of Strongbow sitting at a comfortable £2.48 and a refreshing Strawberry Daiquiri being only £4.15. However, if you still want the price range of Wetherspoons but less of the overwhelmingly loud experience then I’d suggest the other York branch – The Punch Bowl – a short evening stroll away.
09. The Shambles Kitchen
Located on the end of the iconic Shambles, this is possibly one of the best sandwiches I’ve had in York. With their bizarre product names – such as Dame Judy Hench – and their juicy, stacked-up fillings, it’s no wonder they are so popular. What more could you want than an incredibly delicious sandwich while walking along the cobbled streets of York? They don’t have indoor seating so it is easier to describe as a food stall, however, it’s only a minute's walk from the Shambles Market which has benches to sit on and relax (although it can get particularly busy on weekends so time your outings around the bustling tourism!). Their sandwiches range from £8-£10 but I promise it’s worth it, so while it’s not the cheapest option out there it is a MUST have at least once in the first year.
08. Charles XII
This pub is a classic for Freshers, particularly those living on the sides of campus near Heslington Hall. It has a beautiful beer garden with heaters and TV screens showing something for most sports fans. If you’re an F1 fan like me you can book ahead and request a booth showing the Sunday Grand Prix, or, more commonly, if you want to save a spot for a football match. If you didn’t think it could get any better, it does. Every week there is a quiz night with teams of students competing to win a £20 bar tab, a great way to bond and then inevitably fall out with new mates!
07. Dusk
Now what is better than a pint and pub grub? In my opinion, it’s pizza and cocktails. Dusk is the perfect location for students who want a chill night that is a bit more elevated than the pub. With mood lighting and fun-themed cocktails, Dusk is worth the trip, for only £4 a big slice and 2-4-1 cocktails during happy hour. I personally love the Graham Norton cocktail. Also, keep in mind, a lot of societies love to go there for socials so if you hear about an event, I’d check it out.
06. Brew York
Tucked away in the city lies Brew York’s beer and food hall. Stunning interior to chill out and grab a pint with friends and just above is their food hall with YUZU street food – honestly so delicious! On the ground floor, they have a boiler room-styled bar with a huge variety of styles of beers, such as their Malicious Mango or a Key Lime Pie Sour. Too much to choose from. The YUZU food hall (found up the stairs of their store) is massive, with booths and high tables, also quick and friendly service. It’s a frequent visit for me and my mates from home due to not only its delicious food but also its affordable price tag. (Moreover, if you find yourself wanting to take up cycling there happens to be a secondhand bike store just next to it.)
05. Shambles Market
The famous Shambles Market is a must-visit when in York, from vegetable stalls, and butchers, to trendy bars and street food. There is something for everyone here. Take your parents, friends, or even new friends. Benches are littered across the market perfect for a social lunch or even just taking in the bustle of York life. A personal favourite recommendation of mine is for the Afternoon Tea lovers out there, Parlormade has incredibly scrumptious scones, white chocolate and raspberry are possibly the best I’ve had – I always remember to take my mum there every time she visits! The market is also a great location for those with dietary restrictions as the staff are considerate and accommodating.
04. SPARK
For any Londoners out there, the best way I can describe Spark is by comparing it to BoxPark, except its open-top summer roof and food give it the edge. From Korean food to juicy burgers this unit has it all, and being on the edge of town closest to the university it’s easily accessible for those who want something casual and easy. One to keep your eye on is Clucking Oinks, their chicken burgers are juicy and tender, possibly the best I’ve had. Additionally, Spark has vegetarian and vegan options so for those wishing to eat somewhere they don’t have to worry about limitations, check this out! In the warmer seasons, they open up the roof, proving there’s nothing better than sipping sangrias in the Yorkshire sun.
03. Dougheyed
THE BEST PIZZA IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. FULL STOP. As someone whose favourite cuisine is Italian food it’s often hard to find such a good pizza anywhere but its country of origin, that was until I tried the legendary Sausage & Fennel pizza with its creamy mushroom base and juicy cheese. I have introduced everyone I know to this pizza restaurant located on the corner of the Shambles Market, and you need to go there as soon as you can if you are a pizza lover. However, new competition has entered town – Rudy’s Pizza – and I can confidently say, having tried both, it doesn’t come close to the quality and creativity behind Dough Eyed’s creations. However, I would try out both to make up your own mind!
02. Brewdog
Although not number one, BrewDog deserves an extremely special mention as possibly the best value for students. 25% off all food and drink with proof of student ID, my mates and I have exploited this deal to the max since discovery. I’m not personally a beer lover so the 25% discount on drinks doesn’t mean too much to me, but if you like your lagers then definitely make use of this. The reason for its number two spot is the value and taste of its food, its buffalo wings are amazing (with vegetarian options available for those who wish to try), and with the student discount, a sharing plate of wings and a drink will only set you back around £15. I’d recommend booking ahead and perhaps following them on Instagram as they host events all the time, such as quizzes and even charity events in partnership with university societies!
01. Las Iguanas
The holy grail of food and alcohol, the perfect beginning to a long night out. Las Iguanas' bottomless brunch and drinks is the bargain of the century with the student deal being only £28 for 1.5 hours of one dish and endless drinks. In all honesty, I cannot remember much from my night there, but I do know I had delicious tacos and a strange mix of cocktails, it was a night worth the consequences the next day. Located in the centre of town it is only a few minutes walk from the clubs and bars. Also, if drinking is not your style their food is delicious with options from many cuisines such as Caribbean or Jamaican food.
