With Valentine’s Day around the corner, what better excuse is there to indulge in a romantic treat?
But with so many fabulous eateries in York, the choice can be a little overwhelming – like a menu with more pages than Mills & Boon novel.
To help out, OG York has put together a specials board, with five firm favourites chosen by the team.
Food for the love of…
…sharing
What started as a side hustle in Malton has grown to a popular choice for locals in York. Ambiente offers memorable small plates, served with delicious drinks and provides the space for slow conversations as you dine.
In York find three options, Tabanco by Ambiente on Walmgate, and their Fossgate restaurant are the larger choices, and better for access, with a more intimate setting on Goodramgate. Look out for sherry experiences for a night with a difference.
OG choice Albondigas con Tomate – juicy beef & pork meatballs cooked in a smokey chorizo and tomato stew
…burgers
York has its fair share of burger joints, and pubs that do a mean slider; our pick is Fat Hippo. An Independent group born in Newcastle and taking residence on Low Petergate since 2023. It’s motto – Good food. Messy Fingers. Juicy Burgers – sums it up. Not for small appetites, but frankly brilliant burgers that you don’t want to end.
On paper it might not be considered the best choice for anyone with dietary requirements, however the menu is surprisingly comprehensive with their Sloppy Faux winning in the Vegan National Burger Awards 2025.
OG choice Beer battered cheese balls covered in hot honey Buffalo sauce and ranch
…spice
Yemen Heaven on Walmgate are a family run business offering a taste of Yemen, shaped by heritage and guided by craft. The founder moved to York and after sharing tastes of home with friends, the doors opened in 2022 for the first restaurant of its kind in the city.
Slow-cooked stews, spice-layered broths, and hand-stretched breads form the foundation of the menu with ample meat-free options. “The table is a place of peace” reflects the Yemenite view that meals offer moments of connection and harmony. Relax over dishes created using hand selected ingredients, with flavours passed down through generations.
OG choice Oven-baked seabass fillet, marinated in garlic and spices.
…experiential dining
Skosh hit the York eating scene back in 2016 when the owner chef first offered its refined dishes to eat as you go or served in courses for a complete dining experience. Now expanded in its home close to Micklegate Bar, the open concept kitchen delivers elegance and taste with international influences.
It’s name literally mean ‘little dishes’ in Japanese and they’re as beautiful as they are delicious – well deserving of their entry into the Michelin Guide. The menu changes regularly allowing for new discoveries if you’re lucky enough to visit often and the cocktails are a great way to start before a strong choice of fine wines from local suppliers.
OG choice Roast hogget shoulder – pomegranate, mint, red cabbage & spiced lentil
…Insta-posing
With its arched fairy-light entrance, worth pausing for a selfie under, locals return time and again to Ate O’Clock on High Ousegate. Choose from the lounge bar, restaurant or outdoor courtyard – a cosy setting for all seasons. This family run business since 2017 is a welcome surprise beyond the glitter of the lights.
Menu variations suit most dietary requirements adding to its popularity for a group get together. You can even bring the dog. Plan your visit when the set menus are available for the best mix of value and choice or go a la carte for the full selection.
OG choice Beetroot and poached pear risotto with Harrogate blue cheese and toasted flaked almonds