York is a gem of a city, nestled in God’s own county and with something for everyone to enjoy. From its signature walls to the York Minster, and from its ramshackle 15th-century cobbled streets to its newest bars and retail offerings, York oozes history and culture. It’s also home to some of the best cafes in the North of England; here are just four of those cafes, representing the best of the best and fully deserving of a visit the next time you find yourself there.
1. Partisan
Partisan is an independent coffee shop situated on Micklegate, one of York’s most vibrant city streets. Partisan has something for everyone, with an eclectic daytime menu boasting classic brunch dishes and Mediterranean offerings alike – as well as, of course, coffee to die for.
2. The Cat’s Whiskers
The Cat’s Whiskers is a unique entry to the list, but a breath of fresh air by that same virtue. It is another growing national phenomenon known as the ‘cat cafe’, wherein customers get to enjoy their coffee while comingling with cats. The Cat’s Whiskers is a particularly strong example, with no compromise in terms of the quality of their coffee or snack menu.
The Cat’s Whiskers is situated on Goodramgate, surrounded by fantastic restaurants and a short hop from the York train station. Indeed, all of the cafes on this list are easily accessible on foot; booking a train into York can yield a full day of activities with little in the way of further transport required.
3. Wheldrakes
Another excellent venue on Goodramgate can be found in the form of Wheldrakes, a cafe about which you will not find a bad word. Wheldrakes is the number 1 listed cafe on TripAdvisor for the city, rated highly for its incredible menu, in particular its home-bakes and brunch offerings. Come for the Eggs Royale, stay for the unbelievable salted caramel cake. They also cater to a wide variety of dietary requirements, meaning that coeliacs and vegans can comfortably indulge in a sweet treat or three.
4. The Pig and Pastry
The Pig and Pastry is a quaint breakfast and lunch cafe, a little way out from the city center but still remarkably close to the train station – and a stone’s throw from the River Ouse via Rowntree Park. The Pig and Pastry is quintessential cafe fare, with an expansive sandwich menu chock-full of hidden gems. The cafe is a real neighborhood spot, and on your first visit, you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered one of York’s best-kept coffee-spot secrets.
