My top cafes in York

First on my list is the York staple, Cresci Pizzeria, which usually requires you to book at a minimum 24 hours in advance if you want a chance to eat there.

Despite the hindrance to spontaneity, if anyone asks what my favourite restaurant in York is, this is the answer. I order the same thing almost every time.

Bufala pizza, similar to the classic Margarita, but with buffalo mozzarella instead. It’s the perfect answer to a pizza craving.

This is the most recent addition to my York top five. Tucked away in the Shambles Market, it can be easily missed if not for the queue of people that are always waiting outside. It took me multiple tries to get my hands on their most popular scone, Lemon and Blueberry, but I can happily report that it was well worth the wait.

If my timing isn’t so fortuitous, and I miss the last of these scones, I have found any other pairs perfectly with clotted cream and raspberry preserves.

A potentially controversial take, but in my opinion this is the best brunch spot in the city.

Serving many classics, and many originals, I choose the same thing every single time. Turkish figs and melted goats cheese on sourdough toast. One of the best dishes I have ever eaten in my entire life.

Also pictured is rhubarb french toast, one of their delicious ever changing specials.

If you, like me, are looking for a more relaxed spot, and to avoid waiting in a line, try the Brew and Brownie Bakehouse, situated a few doors down from the busier main cafe. The selection of cakes and pastries changes daily, so it’s near impossible to pick a go-to choice. However, the toastie options are usually consistent, and I always find myself gravitating towards the bacon and cheese toastie with tomato chutney. As this cafe offers takeaway, and is situated very close to the Museum Gardens, if the weather is good I like to sit and people watch while I enjoy my toastie.

This is the only entry on my list at which I truly do not have a go to choice. The best part of a meal at Spark is being able to choose from a wide range of options, and having no obligation to eat a cuisine even remotely similar to the person next to you. As a self-proclaimed huge fan of food courts, this spot has been a favourite since my very first visit, and is perfect for a group of friends who can never agree on what to eat. Pictured is beef tacos, two types of loaded fries, and a chicken burger.