Yorkshire has always been home to an exciting food scene, with a number of award-winning restaurants under its belt. Now more than ever, there are plenty of delicious spots to try, from quaint cafes and gastro pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants. With access to some of the freshest produce in the country, thanks to the sea-based towns and rural village farms, it isn’t surprising that it is a county renowned for its food.
With so many food spots to choose from across a range of budgets, there’s something for everyone with Yorkshire’s food scene. Not only is it a must-visit for its food spots, but with a stunning mixture of bustling cities and rolling countryside, it’s the perfect place for a staycation. Let’s take a look at some of the must-visit spots for food lovers to visit in Yorkshire.
The Black Swan at Oldstead, Helmsley
Rating: £££
The Black Swan at Oldstead is a Michelin-star restaurant, so if you’re into fine dining, then this is a place you need to visit during your visit to Yorkshire. Chef Tommy Banks was named the youngest Michelin-starred chef at the age of just 24 in 2013, so he sure knows what he’s doing! Diners can expect food of exceptional quality when dining here, and the restaurant looks like a quaint gastropub from the outside but when stepping inside, it is a casual and modern restaurant. With dishes including mallard, smoked eel and fresh dairy produce, it’s a menu not to be missed!
Coffee Culture, York
Rating: £
If you’re hitting the shops in York and want to enjoy a delicious brunch and cup of coffee beforehand, then a visit to Coffee Culture is a must. With plenty of choice, from fresh pastries and delicious homemade cakes, to light bites such as sandwiches and soups made using fresh local produce, you won’t be disappointed. Nestled amongst some of the city’s oldest buildings, you’re also sure to appreciate the quirky interior and exterior during your visit.
Quayside, Whitby
Rating: ££
There’s nothing better than fresh fish and chips and, in Yorkshire, there’s certainly no shortage of fish and chip shops! But, if you want one of the best, then a visit to Quayside in Whitby is highly recommended. As a small family-run chip shop, they really focus on providing the best that Whitby has to offer. As well as amazing fish and chips, you’ll also get to enjoy the pretty seaside town of Whitby, which is steeped in history – be sure to visit Whitby Abbey and discover the many stories of poets and saints, including the famous Dracula.
Shears Yard, Leeds
Rating: ££
Nestled away just off The Calls, Shears Yard is a modern and contemporary restaurant within a beautiful 18th-century building. Although it holds a “fine-dining” description, don’t let this put you off. Shears Yard is a hugely popular restaurant in Leeds and has been for many years thanks to its reasonably priced menu. Using the very best in local and seasonal ingredients, the menu changes regularly throughout the year, allowing you to try a variety of different dishes. No matter the day or occasion for which you’re visiting, it really is one of the culinary delights in Leeds.
If you’re visiting over the weekend, be sure to make the most of the ample overnight parking in Leeds and enjoy a few tipples from the bar with your food before heading to popular bars a short walk away on New York Street, including local favourites Crowd of Favours and Duck & Drake.
Birch Hall Inn, Beck Hole, North York Moors
Rating: £
Next on the list is a classic from North York Moors. This is only a small-sized pub but one of the best located in Yorkshire. This countryside pub was founded in 1860 and is a grade II listed building. It is a great pub to stop by for hikers and tourists. Plus, it isn’t too far away from Whitby.
Birch Hall Inn serves pub classics and has outdoor seating which is dog-friendly. It is the perfect spot for a summer day so if you are nearby to this fantastic countryside pub, it is certainly worth a visit.
Hales Bar, Harrogate
Rating: ££
Up next is Hales Bar which is located in Harrogate. This is one of the best bars available however, it doesn’t offer food. Nevertheless, it is a great drinking hole and is the oldest pub in Harrogate. This iconic bar has features dating back to the Victorian era. With a selection of cask ales, wines & spirits, it is a bar that should be on your list to visit.
Green Dragon Inn, Hardraw, Yorkshire Dales
Rating: £££
Green Dragon is in the Yorkshire Dales and is one of the most historic pubs on this list and it gives you that feeling when you walk inside. It is like a step back into the 13th century. With an open fire, concrete flags, and rustic furniture, you will feel like you’re on set for an episode of The Witcher. This fantastic pub serves your pub classics such as pie chips and peas which is something that everybody loves in Yorkshire.
The Black Horse, Whitby, Yorkshire Coast
Rating: ££
Another historical pub in Whitby is The Black Horse. This marvellous pub is from the 16th and although it doesn’t look great on the outside. It is also believed to be one of the oldest public-serving bars in Europe and is often voted for pub of the year. The selection of real ales and lagers is also fantastic and has a drink for everyone. Plus, there is a fantastic tapas menu there to keep you feeling full as you enjoy the selection of ales.
Fox and Hounds, Goldsborough, North York Moors
Rating: ££
Last but not least, the Fox and Hounds. This traditional pub is located in Yorkshire and with a name like that, you just know it is going to be a British Classic. This pub has a fantastic menu which is perfect for a pub lunch with family and friends. It also serves a Yorkshire classic which is Whitby scampi. Again, this is located in the countryside so if you have a little furry friend you wish to sit outside in the sun with then you can.
Summary
As you can see, Yorkshire is home to many wonderful pubs which serve great grub. All of these pubs are very affordable and are perfect to stop by after a stroll in the countryside. If you are feeling peckish then they can fulfil your needs for that as well. You get the true Yorkshire feeling when you are inside these pubs so make sure you visit one of them whilst you are exploring the countryside.