5 Best Places to Eat During York Restaurant Week 2024

York Restaurant Week 2024 is a foodie’s dream, offering a week of irresistible deals and special menus from some of the city's top eateries. From the historic streets of York, brimming with charm, to the diverse flavours that each restaurant brings to the table, there’s no better way to sample the best of what this culinary gem has to offer. Whether you’re looking for international cuisine or hearty British classics, the options are endless. Here are the five must-visit spots during York Restaurant Week 2024 that are sure to satisfy every craving.

1. The Star Inn The City

If you’re looking to kick off your Restaurant Week experience in style, The Star Inn The City is a perfect choice. Nestled along the River Ouse, this elegant yet relaxed restaurant offers modern British cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Run by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Pern, it’s renowned for bringing the flavours of the countryside to the city.

During York Restaurant Week, expect a set menu that showcases the best of British flavours, often featuring dishes like Yorkshire-reared beef with seasonal vegetables or North Sea fish served with herb-crusted potatoes and a tangy citrus beurre blanc. The desserts are just as divine, with classics such as sticky toffee pudding or Eton mess, given a Star Inn twist. Dining with a view of the river adds to the experience, making it one of York’s most picturesque locations to enjoy a meal.

Deal: 3 Course Set Menu - £25pp

2. 22 Yards

For a more intimate dining experience paired with a wine lover’s paradise, 22 Yards is a standout option. This cozy wine bar, located just off York’s bustling Fossgate, specializes in perfectly curated food and wine pairings. It offers a carefully selected range of wines from across the world, with an emphasis on small producers, and during York Restaurant Week, the focus is on pairing these wines with a special tasting menu.

You can expect a delightful variety of sharing plates, including charcuterie boards, cheeses, and seasonal tapas-style dishes that are ideal for enjoying with friends. Popular dishes include slow-cooked pork belly, beetroot-cured salmon, and goat’s cheese with caramelised onions. The laid-back yet stylish atmosphere, combined with an attentive team ready to guide you through the wine list, makes this a fantastic spot to relax and savour great food and drink during Restaurant Week.

Deal: 2 Dishes & A Glass Of Wine - £20

3. The Whippet Inn

If you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak during York Restaurant Week, The Whippet Inn is the place to go. Known for its meaty menu and cozy, eclectic decor, this quirky steakhouse prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced beef and offers a range of cuts cooked to perfection. The Whippet Inn is beloved by locals for its intimate vibe and exceptional service, and it’s perfect for a hearty meal that won’t disappoint.

During Restaurant Week, the Whippet Inn typically offers a set menu featuring their prime cuts at an unbeatable price. Whether it’s a juicy ribeye, tender fillet, or a succulent flat iron steak, you can expect each bite to be bursting with flavour. Don’t forget to add one of their indulgent sides, like truffle fries or grilled halloumi, and a house-made sauce such as blue cheese or peppercorn. With its cozy atmosphere and retro-inspired decor, The Whippet Inn provides a relaxed, comfortable dining experience for meat lovers.

Deal: Steak & Drink - £15

4. Zaap Thai

For those craving bold, exotic flavours, Zaap Thai brings the vibrant street food of Bangkok to the heart of York. This lively, energetic restaurant on Petergate is known for its authentic Thai dishes, served in a fun, colourful environment. During York Restaurant Week, Zaap typically offers a special menu featuring some of their most popular dishes, making it a great time to explore Thai cuisine if you haven't already.

Expect flavourful dishes like spicy papaya salad, crispy pork belly, and rich, fragrant curries such as green curry with chicken or Massaman beef curry. Zaap’s attention to authenticity extends to their decor, where the dining room is transformed into a bustling Thai street scene, complete with neon signs and tuk-tuks. The vibrant atmosphere and fast-paced service make it a great choice for a fun, casual night out.

Deal: 2 Course Set Menu & A Drink - £15pp

5. Ambiente Tapas

For a Mediterranean escape, look no further than Ambiente Tapas, one of York’s premier destinations for Spanish cuisine. Located near the historic Fossgate area, Ambiente offers a range of authentic tapas dishes perfect for sharing. During York Restaurant Week, their set menu showcases some of the best flavours Spain has to offer, with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes.

From classic patatas bravas to creamy croquetas and grilled chorizo, each plate is designed to be shared among friends, making Ambiente a great option for a relaxed and social meal. Seafood lovers will enjoy their gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), while vegetarians can savour dishes like smoky grilled aubergines or spiced chickpeas. Pair your meal with a glass of Spanish wine or a refreshing sangria to complete the experience. The laid-back, rustic atmosphere and friendly staff make Ambiente a top pick for those looking to indulge in rich, flavourful tapas.

Deal: Any 3 Tapas Dishes - £15

Final Thoughts

York Restaurant Week 2024 is an incredible opportunity to dive into the city’s diverse food scene, and these five spots—The Star Inn The City, 22 Yards, The Whippet Inn, Zaap Thai, and Ambiente Tapas—offer a delicious range of options to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for a refined British meal by the riverside, a casual Thai street food feast, or an indulgent steakhouse experience, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to book in advance, as these popular restaurants are likely to fill up fast during the weeklong celebration of York’s best eats.

With such a variety of cuisines on offer at great prices, York Restaurant Week 2024 is your perfect chance to explore the culinary treasures of the city—so get ready to eat, drink, and enjoy the best that York has to offer!