It should be no surprise that York has quietly become a culinary hotspot over recent years. Exciting flavours from around the world have flourished here since the city’s founding by the Romans 2,000 years ago. Exotic imports found their way here from every corner of the empire. From the Roman markets to medieval feasts to the ‘Chocolate City’ of the 19th century, York’s always been a foodie’s dream.

Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic fine dining experience, a group of friends looking for a lively night out, or a family ready to explore new tastes, York has something special in store. At 10 St Marys, you’re just around the corner from it all. Here’s a flavour of what’s on offer.

Food Tours

If you’re the kind of traveller who loves to combine history with food, York’s food tours are the perfect way to explore the city and keep your belly full. Led by guides who love the city and know its history and culinary acne intimately, you’ll visit some of the city’s top eateries, sample a variety of local dishes, and learn about the historical significance behind them.

This experience is ideal for couples or small groups who appreciate both the story and the flavour behind their meals. Expect to pay around £60 per person, which includes not just the guided tour, but also all the delicious samples along the way. It’s a small price to pay for a memorable, mouth-watering adventure. York on a Fork and Shared 3 Hours are both popular and highly regarded tours.

Roots

For those special occasions when only the best will do, Roots offers a dining experience that’s nothing short of extraordinary. York’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, by chef Tommy Banks, takes the concept of farm-to-table to new heights with a tasting menu that changes with the seasons to showcase the very best of British produce.

Everything is sourced locally, with much of it from Tommy’s farm and garden 20 miles away at Oldstead (where they also have The Black Swan, another Michelin-starred restaurant). The setting is intimate and cosy, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated gathering with close friends.

Choose from two tasting options – the Core Menu at £95pp, or the Signature Menu at £145, with optional paired wine packages.

Skosh

Restraint is required when you eat at Skosh. Once you’ve tried a couple, it’s almost impossible to stop yourself ‘rampaging through the menu like an elephant on heat’, in the words of food critic Jay Rayner in his legendary review. This casual eatery on Micklegate serves contemporary British food with an Asian twist. Think sashimi of red sea bream with elderflower, rhubarb & green peppercorn and salt-aged beef fillet & kimchi toast. 

Skosh’ derives from the Japanese word for ‘a little’ and you choose from a selection of smaller dishes you can mix and match at will. The difficulty is not ordering them all. This is one of the hottest tickets in town, so booking is essential.

SPARK York

OK, enough of the fine dining. If your idea of a great day/night out involves a bit of everything—food, music, shopping, and good vibes—then SPARK York is the place to be. This community-focused venue is a melting pot of global street food vendors, creative retail spaces, and live entertainment, all housed in repurposed shipping containers to create a fabulously funky vibe.

The energy here is infectious, making it a hit with younger crowds and families alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger, vegan delights, or something more exotic, you’ll find it at SPARK.

Brew York Beer Hall

For the beer aficionados, Brew York Beer Hall is your sanctuary. Nestled in the heart of York, this vast Bavarian-style beer hall offers the greatest array of craft beers found in and around York. With over 50 taps, you’re truly spoilt for choice. And whatever you go for, you’ll find something delicious to pair it with from YUZU Street Food, offering a bold selection of Asian cuisines such as Katsu Curry, Bao buns, Wings, and Ramen.

The atmosphere is lively, yet relaxed, making it a great spot for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun and laid-back evening. Weekly brewery tours offer insights into the brewing process (and plenty of samples) while those who aren’t so keen on beer can enjoy a range of cocktails, wines and soft drinks.

York Food Festival

For ten days in late September, the entire city becomes a great marketplace as the scents of freshly cooked food, the hum of lively conversation, and the sounds of local musicians fill the air. The York Food Festival is a celebration that brings together the community, local chefs, and food enthusiasts from far and wide. Follow your nose as you explore all manner of food stalls along Parliament Street. But that’s just part of the experience.

The Taste Trails take you on a culinary journey through the city, discovering over 20 hidden gems and sampling local delicacies along the way. Don’t hang about though, as there are only 100 tickets available each day. For those who love to get hands-on, the Food Factory offers free cooking workshops that cater to all ages, making it a perfect stop for families. And when the sun sets, gather around for live music performances that pair perfectly with the festival’s vibrant street food offerings. 

Whether with your partner, kids, or friends, this festival is an unmissable experience.

Cookery School at The Grand, York

Why limit your foodie experience to your trip to York? A class at the Cookery School at The Grand means you’ll be able to rustle up some delights when you get back home. It’s an experience that’s both educational and indulgent. Set within the luxurious surroundings of The Grand, these hands-on classes are perfect for anyone looking to spice up their cooking skills.

Whether you’re interested in mastering the basics or diving into a specific cuisine, there’s a course for everyone. Learn how to sizzle the perfect steak or bake bread to perfection. Explore anything from classic French Brasserie to vibrant Latin American flavours. There are even parent and child classes where you can make burgers and pastries together. After the lesson, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour in a private dining setting. Prices range from £65 to £150 per person, making it a worthy investment in your culinary journey.

York is not just a city of history and heritage. It’s a city of flavours and experiences that linger long after the last bite. Whether you’re sipping craft beer in a lively hall, exploring food trails in ancient streets, or dining on Michelin-starred cuisine, York offers a feast for everyone.

And at 10 St Marys, you’re right at the heart of it. Accommodation that’s as rich and indulgent as the food served up around York. Check our upcoming availability and book your foodie adventure.