York – Scottish Girl in Yorkshire

In recent years, the iconic London restaurant The Ivy, has been branching out across the UK, and luckily for us Yorkshire-based folk the county has seen a large portion of the new openings popping up right on our doorstep.

There is now an Ivy restaurant in York, Leeds and Harrogate.

Inside Ivy Harrogate — The Ivy Harrogate

Having previously visited the Ivy in Harrogate last summer, I was absolutely delighted to be invited along for dinner at the Ivy in York as part of the York Literature Festival, a few weeks ago.

Jill Dawson at the Ivy York

Set menu at Ivy York

The Language of Birds

As part of the York Lit Fest, the Ivy York hosted a fabulous night with author Jill Dawson, which included a 3-course meal alongside a Q&A with Jill and a reading from her latest book The Language of Birds.

If Im being honest, the offer of a 3-course meal was which first peaked my interest in the event, but the talk with Jill was truly fascinating too. She provided some very interesting insight into her writing processes and inspiration, and I’m now very much looking forward to getting stuck into her latest novel which is based on the scandalous Lord Lucan mystery – the perfect read if you’re always binging the latest crime docs on Netflix.

The Ivy York Restaurant

Private Dining Room at Ivy York

Private Dining Room at ivy York

Of course, the highlight of the night was the incredible setting of The Ivy and the top-quality food which was on offer.

As well as the Ivy’s menu, the restaurant is famed for its elaborate stylings, with floral decor, intricate patterns and grand furnishings adorning the venue.

I’d previously visited the bar area of York’s Ivy, and this time I was thrilled to get a sneaky peek inside of the restaurant’s private dining room, where the event was held.

The private room would also be the perfect choice for any special birthdays or other celebrations, I’ve already added it to my list for any future party planning!

Food at the Ivy

Having previously dined at the Ivy in Harrogate, and being seriously impressed by the food I was very excited to sample more of the menu.

Tempura prawns at Ivy Harrogate

Crab linguine at Ivy Harrogate

Prior to my first visit to the Ivy I did worry whether the much-hyped restaurant would live up to expectations, and it actually exceeded them. On my first visit to the Ivy I had the tempura prawn starter and the crab linguine pasta, and can highly recommend both.

This time, we were served with a set menu which included some of the Ivy’s most classic dishes:

-Bang bang chicken to start

-Shepherd’s pie main

-Crème brûlée for dessert

Crème brûlée is my favourite dessert so I was already in my happy place as soon as I read the menu.

Bang bang Chicken at Ivy York — Bang bang chicken

Shepherd's pie at The Ivy York — Shepherd’s pie

The highlight of the meal for me though was the bang bang chicken starter, which is a dish I most likely wouldn’t have chosen myself but very much enjoyed. The shepherd’s pie was also delicious – totally hearty and comforting, just as you want from a traditional dish like this.

The other star of the show was the incredible homemade bread which we were served on the side, which was extremely soft and flavourful with just a small hint of salt to enhance the taste.

There is also an impressive cocktail menu – try the strawberry spritz – and the restaurant also serve their very own brand of beer.

If you’re considering dining at one of the Ivy’s new Yorkshire venues, I certainly recommend it for the food, the setting, and just that extra-special experience.

And make sure to keep your eyes peeled for any events too, for something a little bit different!

I lived in York for 365 days exactly, and in that time I drank more than 365 cocktails (that’s normal, right?). So if you’re looking for recommendations on the best places for cocktails in York, I’m here to help.

1.Bora Bora

Bora Bora York — Bora Bora is my top choice of cocktail bars in York

True to its name, Bora Bora feels like being in a tropical paradise come rain or shine. The heated outdoor courtyard is perfect in all seasons, there is a tasty selection of cocktails that are well priced too, and the 00s R&B tunes they play add to the sunshine vibes. My favourite place for a cocktail in York.

Bora Bora, 5 Swinegate Court East

2. Stonegate Yard

Cocktails at Stonegate Yard York — Stonegate Yard has a laidback atmosphere to suit all age groups

A very close contender for the top spot, and one of my go-to cocktail bars while living in York. Whenever I had friends or family visiting we would stop by Stonegate Yard for a cocktail. The atmosphere is relaxed and it appeals to people of all ages, making it a perfect choice if you’re out in a mixed age group. The unique setting is essentially an outdoor courtyard but with a roof – meaning you get all of the advantages of sitting outside without worrying about the rain. Lovely place by day or night.

Stonegate Yard, 8-10 Little Stonegate

3. Cut and Chase

Cocktails at Cut and Chase York — Not just a cocktail but a work of art at Cut and Chase

Cut and Chase opened while I lived in York and it wasn’t long before I stopped by. Not only serving cocktails, it is primarily a restaurant – I’ve also sampled their dinner menu and can attest that it is fabulous too. Their decadent cocktails are not only delicious but also a handcrafted work of art. A little pricier than some of the other bars in York but worth it for 1 or 2 extra special drinks.

Cut and Chase, 39 Goodramgate

4. Pitcher & Piano

Cocktails at Pitcher & Piano York — Night-time view of the river at Pitcher & Piano

Situated by the river, Pitcher & Piano is an idyllic spot for sipping a refreshing cocktail on a summer’s day. When the sun is shining it does get busy, and you need to get there early to nab a good table outside. It’s my preferred choice to its neighbouring Revolution (who do also do fab cocktails) but I find Pitcher & Piano to have a more reserved atmosphere. It’s not only for sunny days as the beautiful indoor area still offers a lovely view of the river which is particularly pretty by night. I remember one wonderful evening near Christmas when my Mum was visiting – we sat inside with a view to the sparkling lights outside, while traditional chilled Christmas songs played over the speaker.

Pitcher & Piano, Ebor Hall, Coney St

5. Bobo Lobo

Cocktails at Bobo Lobo York — Total tropical indulgence at Bobo Lobo

A popular choice for the weekends, when it opens the dancefloor at the back of the bar. The cocktails here are extravagant and tropical, served in pineapples and coconuts with lavish garnishings – perfect if you like your drinks Instagram-worthy.

Bobo Lobo, 5 Little Stonegate

These 5 bars are just my top choices of where to go for cocktails in York. I love a cocktail night in York as the city is filled with fabulous bars, and the best thing is they are all within easy walking distance of each other so you can try them all. If you’re planning a weekend away in York you’re sure to have a wonderful time.

Tag: York

Fine Dining at The Ivy York