FANTASTIC FEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM
How does a wandering wizard refuel his magic? By visiting the many fantastic independent places to eat in York, and below are some of my top picks. Be sure to mention The Wizard Walk of York when visiting!
Follow the Facebook album for even more recommendations, from sweet treats and street food to pub meals and a la carte dining.Â
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TANTALISING TREATS
Parlormade Café and Scone House
Always a taste of magic! Delicious fresh scones a speciality, with a wide range of flavours and preserves. Great tea and coffee too, and friendly service. Take-away or sit in and look out over The Shambles Market. Visit the website
Double Dutch Pancake House
Sheri and Dave offer you a warm welcome and a wide range of sweet and savoury crepe style pancakes, made to an authentic Dutch recipe. As a wizard with a sweet tooth, the Nutella with toasted almonds and vanilla ice-cream is a favourite. Vegan and gluten-free options also available. Visit the website
Brew and Brownie
If you prefer thicker American-style pancakes, this is my go-to spot. Try them with banana and Nutella, or bacon and blueberries, maple syrup and a rich honeycomb butter. As the name suggests, they also do brownies (some of the best in York) and a wide range of cakes and savoury options. The French Toast is fantastic too. Expect to queue, but it’s worth the wait! There’s also the nearby Bakehouse with more seating, or take away and sit in the Museum Gardens. Visit the website
The Cheesecake Guy
New York style cheesecakes baked right on York’s Shambles. Personal favourites include Oreo, Pistachio, Red Velvet, Pumpkin Spice and the classic Vanilla. Sold by the slice, in mini cupcake pots or whole cheesecakes made to order. Visit the website
FLORIAN POIROT
Moments away from the start of The Wizard Walk, here you’ll find the most magical macarons in a myriad of flavours. Plus artisan cakes, fruit tarts, handmade marshmallows and even a chocolate York Minster. Highly recommended. Visit the website
Fudge Kitchen
Traditional fudge handmade in copper pans. Call in for a free sample, and watch the confectionary wizards work their magic making smooth and creamy melt-in-the-mouth fudge. My favourites are Butterscotch, Maple and Walnut, and Raspberry and White Chocolate. A sweet treat and oh so moreish! Visit the website
Loopy Scoops
Visit this colourful ice-cream parlour on Church Street for fun and creative ice-creams, sundaes and milkshakes. A range of flavours plus a rainbow of toppings and sauces, a firm family favourite! For a real taste of magic, you can also order The Wizard of York Special! Visit the website
MAKE A MEAL OF IT
Burgsy’s
Proper patties, homemade sauces, and loaded fries with all kinds of magic on top. Generous portions and fantastic flavours. For a sweet treat after, try the DIY S’mores. Limited tables so book to avoid disappointment! Visit the website
Cresci Pizzeria
Authentic Neapolitan pizza with a whole host of delicious toppings. Sourdough pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven. Room for dessert? Give the Rum Baba a go (grown-ups only!) Custard-filled yeast cake drenched in rum. Visit the website
Mr Chippy
Fish and chips is a winning combination, and Mr Chippy fry up culinary magic on Church Street. Locally farmed potatoes and sustainably sourced fish in a fresh golden batter. Add gravy and scraps for a true Northern treat. Fish and Chip Cruises on the River Ouse also available here. Visit the website
Bruks
Tucked away on Peter Lane, this hidden gem is one of our favourite family-friendly cafes. Toys and games available while you wait, and the staff are great with kids. A varied menu with everything from sandwiches, soups and paninis to full English breakfasts. Yummy cakes and traybakes too plus hot drinks, homemade milkshakes and smoothies. Visit the Facebook page
Fancy Hanks
Inspired by the American deep south, enjoy soulful feel-good food in this Goodramgate diner. From mouthwatering fried chicken and burgers to fried pickles, mac n’ cheese, tacos, pancakes and beignets. Visit the website
Ate O’ Clock
One of our favourite spots for a date night, but also great for a family meal. Steaks, burgers and traditional dishes with a la carte, set menu, lunch menu and kid’s menu options available. Ever-changing seasonal specials, and be sure to save room for dessert. Visit the website
Spark:York
A vibrant community space in converted shipping containers on Piccadilly, Spark:York brings together a diverse mix of street food traders. Ordering via an app, families can sit together and all choose from different vendors. This wizard especially enjoys Clucking Oinks fried chicken, and smashed patties at Baby Boy’s Burgers. Rad Pizza is also popular! Visit the website.
Shambles Market
Mere moments away from the start of the Wizard Walk, Shambles Market features tastes from all over the world! Regular spots for me include The Dark Horse Espresso Bar (try the toasties!), NaNa Noodle Bar for amazing popcorn chicken, and the stunning loaded fries at The Taylor Made Kitchen. Browse the stalls for all manner of magical artefacts, homemade fudge, baked treats, fresh fish, meat, fruit and more. Visit the website.
FANTASTIC FEASTS ALBUM
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