Best Venues

The Top 10 Best Restaurants and Places to Eat in York

York is well known for its rich history, but it would be remiss to think ancient architecture is all that is on offer; this city is also a culinary haven. From intimate bistros to lively restaurants, York has a diverse dining scene that aims to delight. We’ve chosen the pick of the bunch to explore in this guide to the best places to eat in York—dinner is served, let’s dig in.In the heart of the city, in a tucked-away Georgian building, awaits a culinary gem, Pearly Cow. This warm and charming restaurant promising to keep it simple and put nature first, with showcases of locally sourced ingredients across an innovative menu that includes hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and magnificent dinners. If you’re looking for dining with flavour and flair, try Pearly Cow, it excels in both.If you’re coming to York to savour authentic Italian cuisine and culture, and who wouldn’t? Buongiorno is not to be overlooked. With its cosy ambience, this popular restaurant treats diners to a modern Roman-bistro experience. Buongiorno’s traditional pasta dishes, mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas, and warm welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite among York’s local foodies and visitors alike. From Italy to South America, Casa Brazilian Rodizio brings the vibrant flavours of Brazil to the timeless streets of York. On offer here is an endless array of succulent meats, cooked to perfection and served with cheer. The energetic atmosphere and friendly staff ensure every visit is a celebration of Brazilian culinary culture.There’s more meat on offer at the Cut & Craft, an elegant restaurant located in historic St. Sampsons Square, where craft beer lovers find a tantalizing array frothy delights too. Renowned for tender flat iron steaks and innovative brews, this elegant restaurant is perfect for indulging in delightful and sumptuous meals that keep customers coming back for more.Marzano Italian Grill offers another opportunity to experience Italian food in York, praised for its authentic flavours and excellent service. Marzono’s carbonara and pasta dishes are particularly popular, offering a true taste of Italy in a stylish setting.Another taste of Italy comes from Cresci Pizzeria, a paradise for pizza lovers. This York pizza restaurant uses the finest ingredients to craft each pie to perfection. Each one is topped with authentic flavours and served in a friendly vibe that makes Cresci Pizzeria a hit with all looking for mouth-watering pizza.York offers an eclectic food scene, and our next sample sees us hop back over the Atlantic for a taste of the Deep South at Nola. This unique eatery styled in a 1920s Art Deco theme, brings the finest Cajun and Creole cuisine to the heart of York. A vibrant menu excites the tastebuds with dishes like scallops and jambalaya. Live jazz is played in the downstairs bar three times per week with classic cocktails and Nola’s unique flavours making it a must-visit for those with an adventurous heart.You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported from York to New York once you step into Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen, an American bar and kitchen serving weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. Think American-inspired dining experience with a trendy twist and you’re on the right track. From juicy burgers to tender ribs, the menu is hearty and satisfying. The laid-back atmosphere and welcoming staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends.York fell to the Vikings in 866 AD and much of their influence still remains, not least of which is the unique dining adventure of Valhalla York, with its Viking-themed menu of home-cooked food, craft beers, and rock music! The immersive setting transports diners back to the Viking era, for a dining experience like no other in the halls of Valhalla, where the brave will live forever.For the finest Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks, Wagyu, and other great local meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, don’t miss Tomahawk Steakhouse York. This specialist steak restaurant offers a cosy ambience, with well-spaced seating and top-notch service. Time to head east for the Phranakhon Thai Tapas offering a delightful fusion of Thai and tapas. With its vibrant flavours and beautifully presented dishes, Phranakho is a revolutionary dining experience with authentic Thai taste, a fantastic spot for those who love to share and explore a variety of flavours.Our virtual tour of the best places to eat in York is at an end, we hope you’ll agree that the city’s culinary landscape is as rich and varied as its history, and restaurants in York make the perfect party venue. York’s eateries regularly host groups for private dining, birthday parties, anniversaries, Christmas parties, baby showers, and more. Why not book your table today and discover the flavours of York for yourself.For more on York, check out The 10 Best Places to Visit in York and The 10 Best Pubs and Bars in York, then you’re all set for a fantastic visit.

Choose Your Venue

24-02-25

In the heart of the city, in a tucked-away Georgian building, awaits a culinary gem, Pearly Cow. This warm and charming restaurant promising to keep it simple and put nature first, with showcases of locally sourced ingredients across an innovative menu that includes hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and magnificent dinners. If you’re looking for dining with flavour and flair, try Pearly Cow, it excels in both.

If you’re coming to York to savour authentic Italian cuisine and culture, and who wouldn’t? Buongiorno is not to be overlooked. With its cosy ambience, this popular restaurant treats diners to a modern Roman-bistro experience. Buongiorno’s traditional pasta dishes, mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas, and warm welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite among York’s local foodies and visitors alike.

From Italy to South America, Casa Brazilian Rodizio brings the vibrant flavours of Brazil to the timeless streets of York. On offer here is an endless array of succulent meats, cooked to perfection and served with cheer. The energetic atmosphere and friendly staff ensure every visit is a celebration of Brazilian culinary culture.

There’s more meat on offer at the Cut & Craft, an elegant restaurant located in historic St. Sampsons Square, where craft beer lovers find a tantalizing array frothy delights too. Renowned for tender flat iron steaks and innovative brews, this elegant restaurant is perfect for indulging in delightful and sumptuous meals that keep customers coming back for more.

Marzano Italian Grill offers another opportunity to experience Italian food in York, praised for its authentic flavours and excellent service. Marzono’s carbonara and pasta dishes are particularly popular, offering a true taste of Italy in a stylish setting.

Another taste of Italy comes from Cresci Pizzeria, a paradise for pizza lovers. This York pizza restaurant uses the finest ingredients to craft each pie to perfection. Each one is topped with authentic flavours and served in a friendly vibe that makes Cresci Pizzeria a hit with all looking for mouth-watering pizza.

York offers an eclectic food scene, and our next sample sees us hop back over the Atlantic for a taste of the Deep South at Nola. This unique eatery styled in a 1920s Art Deco theme, brings the finest Cajun and Creole cuisine to the heart of York. A vibrant menu excites the tastebuds with dishes like scallops and jambalaya. Live jazz is played in the downstairs bar three times per week with classic cocktails and Nola’s unique flavours making it a must-visit for those with an adventurous heart.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported from York to New York once you step into Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen, an American bar and kitchen serving weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. Think American-inspired dining experience with a trendy twist and you’re on the right track. From juicy burgers to tender ribs, the menu is hearty and satisfying. The laid-back atmosphere and welcoming staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends.

York fell to the Vikings in 866 AD and much of their influence still remains, not least of which is the unique dining adventure of Valhalla York, with its Viking-themed menu of home-cooked food, craft beers, and rock music! The immersive setting transports diners back to the Viking era, for a dining experience like no other in the halls of Valhalla, where the brave will live forever.

For the finest Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks, Wagyu, and other great local meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, don’t miss Tomahawk Steakhouse York. This specialist steak restaurant offers a cosy ambience, with well-spaced seating and top-notch service.

Time to head east for the Phranakhon Thai Tapas offering a delightful fusion of Thai and tapas. With its vibrant flavours and beautifully presented dishes, Phranakho is a revolutionary dining experience with authentic Thai taste, a fantastic spot for those who love to share and explore a variety of flavours.

Our virtual tour of the best places to eat in York is at an end, we hope you’ll agree that the city’s culinary landscape is as rich and varied as its history, and restaurants in York make the perfect party venue. York’s eateries regularly host groups for private dining, birthday parties, anniversaries, Christmas parties, baby showers, and more. Why not book your table today and discover the flavours of York for yourself.

For more on York, check out The 10 Best Places to Visit in York and The 10 Best Pubs and Bars in York, then you’re all set for a fantastic visit.

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A Warm Farewell: What to Look for in a Pub Function Room for a Wake

A pub function room can offer a warm, familiar, and relaxed setting for a wake. It provides a space where people can share stories, connect, and remember in comfort. Many pubs offer private or semi-private rooms suitable for gatherings of all sizes, here’s your guide to choosing the right one for the wake your are planning.What to Look for in a Pub Function Room Privacy and atmosphere matter. Look for pubs with dedicated function rooms away from the main bar area. Comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a calm environment help guests feel at ease. Staff experienced in hosting wakes can support you with arrangements such as music, photo displays, or quiet spaces.Types of Pub Function Rooms There are so many different types of pub venues, from traditional inns with cosy private rooms to modern pubs with spacious function suites. Some are located near crematoria or churches, while others offer a more personal connection—perhaps a favourite local spot. Many pubs provide flexible hire options to suit your needs.Catering and Hospitality Pubs often offer buffet menus, afternoon tea, or light refreshments. Ask about dietary options, bar service, and whether you can bring in your own food. Some pubs offer exclusive-use bars within the function room. Confirm timings to ensure a smooth transition from the funeral service.Location, Parking, and Transport Links Choose a pub with convenient access and parking. Step-free access is important for older guests or those with mobility needs. Many pubs can also advise on local taxi services and public transport.Conclusion A pub function room can provide a warm and welcoming setting for a wake. Consider all the options available in your area on chooseyourvenue.com and choose a venue that feels right for your family and the person you’re remembering.

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How to Guide13-02-26

When Should You Book a Venue for an 80th Birthday Party?

An 80th birthday is a meaningful occasion, often bringing together family, friends, and loved ones. Whether you’re planning a quiet gathering or a larger celebration, starting early helps everything run smoothly. You don’t need to decide every detail straight away, but choosing a date and thinking about the guest list is a good first step. Most people begin planning an 80th birthday party four to six months in advance. If you’re booking a venue or expecting guests to travel, it’s worth starting early. Weekends in spring, summer, and of course, December, can get busy, and early planning gives you time to make adjustments if needed.What’s the best day and time for a party?Afternoon gatherings are popular for 80th birthday celebrations. They’re easy for guests to attend and suit a relaxed format—whether it’s a lunch, garden party, or afternoon tea. Starting around 2–4pm works well, giving people time to arrive and enjoy the event without it running too late.What happens if I need to change something?Planning ahead gives you flexibility. If you need to adjust the date, change the venue, or rethink the format, you’ll have time to do it without stress. Most venues and suppliers are happy to accommodate changes if you give them notice. Leaving things late can make changes harder and limit your options.How can I find the right venue?If you don’t know any suitable venues, ask friends or family for suggestions, or search online with venue-finding sites that let you compare spaces, check availability, and enquire directly. ChooseYourVenue.com is user-friendly and lists options across the UK, from pubs to halls.

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02-07-26 From MOBOs to EURO 2028: Newcastle's rise reflects a shift in event destinations

Newcastle's growing profile as a host destination is helping to attract the attention of corporate event organisers, according to Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter, as a wider regional renaissance sees planners increasingly looking beyond London and traditional conference destinations.Last year, Newcastle and Gateshead welcomed 17.5 million visitors to the city – a 2.8% increase from 2024, with major events and conferences playing a leading role in the year-on-year growth.Newcastle continues to strengthen its position as a destination for major events, with the city preparing to host five UEFA EURO 2028 matches and welcoming the return of the Mercury Prize in October 2026, following its historic debut as the first host city outside London. Newcastle also welcomed the MOBO Awards for the first time last year, with Crowne Plaza Newcastle serving as a key event hub during the accompanying MOBO Fringe Festival.Crowne Plaza Newcastle has experienced this growing interest first-hand, reporting a 36.1% increase in new enquiries, a 10.6% increase in confirmed business, and an overall 9.1% increase in its total sales pipeline over the past year.Together, these developments are helping to raise Newcastle's profile among event organisers and reinforcing its credentials as a destination capable of delivering major events on a national and international scale.Regionally, the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority has recognised the strategic importance of major events and the visitor economy as a key driver for economic growth.North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has backed ambitions to double the value of the visitor economy with £7 million of new investment for Experience North East England. The new regional marketing lead for the visitor economy will inspire and attract even more visitors to North East England by promoting the region’s offer in domestic and global markets.This includes a new regional remit for NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau, which works with local businesses, such as Crowne Plaza, to attract conferences, meetings, and events to the region.For many in the meetings and events sector, the trend reflects a broader shift in how destinations are being evaluated. Rising costs, changing delegate expectations, and a growing focus on destination experience are prompting organisers to look beyond traditional conference hubs. As a result, regional cities with strong infrastructure, distinctive identities, and compelling delegate experiences are increasingly competing for events that may once have defaulted to more established destinations.Luke Balcombe, Director of Commercial at Crowne Plaza Newcastle, believes Newcastle is benefiting from this shift."What's particularly striking is the variety of events choosing Newcastle," said Balcombe. "These events are introducing new audiences to the city and demonstrating its ability to deliver events on a major scale."For the business events sector, visibility matters. When organisers see high-profile events choosing Newcastle and then returning, it builds confidence in the destination. We're also seeing growing interest from organisers who may not previously have considered Newcastle for meetings and conferences. Major events help raise awareness, but they also encourage people to take a fresh look at what the city can offer.""The question is no longer whether Newcastle can host major events," he added. "Recent years have answered that. The opportunity now is to build on that momentum and ensure Newcastle is part of the conversation whenever organisers are considering where to host their next event."

02-07-26 Impact, Innovation and Industry: Lime Venue Portfolio Builds Momentum Following The Meetings Show

2nd July 26, UK: Lime Venue Portfolio (LVP) has continued the momentum generated at The Meetings Show, following a landmark week that saw the UK's largest collection of event venues welcome Martin Rhodes MP and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, to its stand. During the visit, the brand showcased the impact meetings and events have on businesses, communities and destinations, alongside the innovation, sustainability and industry partnerships helping shape the future of the sector.The visit formed part of a wider programme of activity that demonstrates the breadth of Lime Venue Portfolio's role within the UK events sector, from supporting local economies at venue level and championing social impact through its supply chain, to launching new AI-powered tools designed to make venue finding easier for event organisers.Having officially opened The Meetings Show, Martin Rhodes MP joined the Lime Venue Portfolio team following an invitation from Sales Director Jo Austin, who first met the MP through the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events. During his visit, Martin met venue partners and social impact partners including Change Please coffee and Flawsome! Drinks, learning how LVP is embedding social value into its events through initiatives that tackle homelessness, reduce food waste and promote more sustainable, plant-forward catering.The visit also highlighted the wider contribution business events make to communities across the UK. Representing venues in cities, towns and destinations nationwide, many of which are iconic sporting venues and visitor attractions rooted in their local communities, Lime Venue Portfolio helps attract conferences and events to places that benefit from increased visitor spend, employment and wider economic growth.Alongside these conversations, Martin also saw Lime Venue Portfolio's latest investment in innovation. During the show, the business launched The AI Conversation, an open-source industry initiative exploring the practical use of artificial intelligence in events, before launching the new LVP AI Hub, an AI-powered venue sourcing tooldesigned to help organisers find the right venue more quickly and intuitively while complementing the expertise of the brand's award-winning Hub team.Jo Austin, Sales Director, Lime Venue Portfolio, commented, "It was a pleasure to welcome Martin to our stand and share the breadth of what our industry delivers and how our own brand is at the forefront of these trends. Business events create economic value in communities across the UK, but they also have the opportunity to create meaningful social impact through the choices we make every day, whether that's the suppliers we champion, the food we serve or the innovation we're investing in to better support organisers."The Meetings Show gave us the perfect opportunity to bring all of those conversations together, showing how our industry can create commercial success while delivering lasting value for people and places across the UK."For Lime Venue Portfolio, who are proud to be part of The Business of Events, the week reinforced the value of investing in industry events as a place to launch new ideas, strengthen customer relationships and engage with the conversations shaping the future of meetings and events.

01-07-26 Lime Venue Portfolio Launches AI Hub

1st July 2026, UK: Lime Venue Portfolio (LVP) has launched the LVP AI Hub, a new AI-powered venue sourcing tool, found on the brand’s website and designed to help event organisers find the right venue quickly, confidently and effectively.The launch follows on from the brand’s rollout of The AI Conversation, an industry-wide initiative, which brought together leading voices from across events, technology and artificial intelligence to explore how AI can support event professionals in practical and responsible ways.The launch of the LVP AI Hub see’s the group take this learning forward. The technology is built directly into the Lime Venue Portfolio website, allowing organisers to describe their event requirements in natural language, helping them identify suitable venues based on intent, objectives and event needs rather than relying solely on traditional search filters.The development reflects a broader ambition at LVP to continually improve the experience of venue finding and event planning, combining technology with the expertise of its award-winning people-powered central sales team, called the Hub..While venue sourcing has traditionally relied on planners translating complex briefs into a series of categories and search criteria, the AI Hub has been developed to support a more intuitive process. Organisers can describe their event in their own words, allowing the platform to surface venue recommendations that more closely align with the outcomes they are trying to achieve.The launch represents the latest investment in LVP's mission to help event organisers deliver better events through better venue finding. Jenner Carter, Head of Marketing at Lime Venue Portfolio, commented, "This isn't really about AI for AI's sake. It's about creating the very best experience for event organisers. It's about strengthening the reach, speed and value of our Hub and combining our outstanding people with powerful technology."Our central sales Hub team remains at the heart of everything we do. They are the experts who understand the nuances of an event brief, build relationships and helporganisers make the right decisions. The AI Hub simply helps us support those conversations with even more intelligence and insight."As the UK's largest collection of event venues, Lime Venue Portfolio continues to explore how technology can remove friction from the planning process while maintaining the personal service and expertise that organisers value most. The AI Hub is now live and available to event organisers via the Lime Venue Portfolio website.

30-06-26 ARC expands CSR event offering as demand grows for purpose-led team building

Arena Racing Company (ARC) has partnered with experiential events specialist KDM Events to introduce SolarBuddy: The Hour of Power, a purpose-led team-building format reflecting growing demand for experiences that combine engagement with measurable social impact.The collaboration forms part of ARC’s wider focus on developing outdoor and experiential group activities for corporate clients, with SolarBuddy positioned as a flagship CSR-led experience for meetings and events programmes.The move comes amid continued growth in demand for ESG-aligned event content, as organisers look to integrate purpose, learning and legacy into conferences and incentive activity.“The Hour of Power” is a hands-on workshop in which participants assemble solar-powered lights for children living in energy poverty communities, including Cambodia, Tanzania and Papua New Guinea.The activity highlights global energy inequality, with an estimated 770 million people still lacking access to safe, reliable lighting. Each solar light enables children to study after dark, reduces reliance on kerosene and supports improved health and household savings.SolarBuddy data indicates each device can positively impact up to five people over its lifespan, while also reducing carbon emissions.The session begins with a brief introduction to energy poverty, followed by teams collaborating to build the lights and write accompanying messages for the recipients.Danielle Matthews-Brown, Group Event Sales Manager at Arena Racing Company, said: “There is clear demand from clients for experiences that go beyond traditional team building and deliver genuine purpose. SolarBuddy gives teams a shared focus while creating tangible impact, which aligns strongly with how organisations are now approaching meetings and events.”Sarah FitzGerald, Director of Partnerships at KDM Events, said: “Businesses are increasingly seeking event experiences that deliver meaningful outcomes, while leaving participants feeling energised, connected and inspired. This format is designed to integrate CSR more directly into team engagement rather than treating it as a standalone add-on.”Only available through KDM Events, SolarBuddy can be delivered nationally and is now available throughout Arena’s portfolio.