A romantic mini break to York wouldn’t be complete without at least one candlelit dinner for two.
With its charming cobbled streets, riverside walks and treasure trove of shopping and sightseeing gems, there is no shortage of romantic things to do in York. However, this small but beautifully formed city really comes into its own in the evenings with its fantastic choice of charming restaurants. Whether you’re wooing a new love, celebrating a special anniversary or even planning to pop the question, the romantic restaurants in York will provide the perfect backdrop to your perfect night out.
Little Italy
When you visit Little Italy it’s easy to see why it’s loved by locals and tourists alike. A stone’s throw from York Minster and Monk Bar, this small but perfectly formed restaurant is the ideal spot to book a table for two and relax in the cosy, traditional surroundings. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the food is not only authentic, it’s proper gourmet fare. Add to that a mouth-watering wine list and you’ve got all the ingredients you need for romance.
The Star Inn in the City
This popular restaurant, located in the old Engine House next to York’s Museum Gardens, has a gorgeous conservatory-style dining room and also boasts fabulous views over the River Ouse. What’s more, the locally inspired cooking more than matches the stunning location, thanks to the talented team in the kitchen. The Star Inn in the City is open all day from breakfast onwards - so you can enjoy Yorkshire cooking at its best followed by a romantic riverside stroll at breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea time - as well as for dinner.
Melton’s Restaurant
If you’re looking for fine dining without sky high prices to match, Melton’s Restaurant is a wonderful option for an excellent value special treat for you and your significant other. Modern British is the theme, and although delicious fish and meat-based concoctions dominate the menu, vegetarians are well catered for too. The stylish interior is dominated by an eye-catching mural, and even though the food and wine list are serious, the ambience is stylish and informal, making it the perfect setting for a relaxed evening of top notch food, drink and conversation.
Khao San Road
Perfect for those who prefer their romance on the spicy side, this lovely Thai favourite winningly combines the flavours of the East with the cosy, bistro-style candlelit atmosphere that York is known and loved for. Its Walmgate location makes it an ideal place to relax after a day’s sightseeing, and the authentic Thai cuisine is among the best you’ll find in the UK. And even better, it’s the perfect choice for a romantic evening that won’t break the bank.
Café no8 Bistro
Bistros are ten a penny in York but this small, cosy eatery is a firm favourite with locals, and is always full to the brim with couples enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and excellent, frequently-changing menu that uses locally sourced, seasonal ingredients as inspiration. Nestled among the shops and restaurants of bustling Gillygate, Café no8 Bistro’s charming garden room and hidden garden is the perfect oasis in the city. The local art work displayed on the walls is available for diners to buy, and would make a lovely gift or memento of a special occasion.
Rustique
When you’re in the mood for a romantic meal for two, sometimes only French fine dining will do. Rustique on Castlegate, or in the newly-opened location in the former York Antique Centre, is the perfect place to add a bit of Gallic flair to your special evening out in York. Again, offering the informal bistro atmosphere that York does so well, this is the place to enjoy beautifully prepared rustic French favourites like moules marinieres, steak frites, confit de canard and more, all washed down with a glass or two of really good French wine.
