A Local’s Guide to York’s Hottest Spots

Whether you’re a resident seeking to rediscover your hometown or a traveller eager to embrace the authentic local experience, you’ve come to the right place.

Not sure where to brunch?

Looking for Instagram-worthy cafes? 

Fancy a night out?

Can’t choose from over 365 pubs to get a pint of beer?

We’ve curated a list of top destinations that answer all of the above questions, so you can go ahead and book yourself a long weekend trip at Safestay York Micklegate.

Let’s jump right in!

Brew & Brownie

An independent cafe specialising in locally sourced fare & house-baked sweets that serves tasty craft coffee and tea drinks Brew & Brownie is a favourite amongst locals. 

The owners pride themselves on the quality of their products by committing to seasonal, mostly local vendors for their menu. 

Photo Credits: Andy Falconer

They’re open everyday from 9:00 – 4:30 PM and do not take reservations – first come, first served. 

Don’t be scared by the size of the queue outside, this just goes to show you how delicious their food is. We recommend their Johnson’s free range scramble eggs served on Haxby Bakehouse sourdough for the ultimate brunch experience. 

You can find them in two locations along Museum Street, just two doors apart. On the way into town from the train station, opposite Museum Gardens and 1 minute from York Minster.

Kiosk: Project Space

Kiosk: Project Space is an interesting little spot on York’s Fossgate. A little way down from old hands Spring Espresso, it’s right next to the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall and is a hybrid: part gallery, part coffee shop and part kitchen, but 100% amazing.

The art/gallery aspect is displayed on the walls and shelves on both sides of Kiosk including ceramics, textiles, fine art, jewellery, and more. 

They’re open every day from 8:30 to 4:00 PM and have only fourteen seats, so be prepared to share your table. Can it be any more cute, and a bit hipster.

Photo Credits: Kiosk Project Space

Just go and try one of their juicy sandwiches, you’ll never be the same. Other usuals include savoury bagels and a wide selection of pastries. 

Kiosk is also famous for its specials that change all the time but are no less worth the try. 

Partisan

‘An elegant lunch spot with good coffee and gorgeous interiors’ – Time Out Magazine

‘Hipsters can enjoy Zen cooking and moreish french toast with basil sugar at Partisan’ – The Sunday Times

These are just some of the not just reviews but raves about Partisan – a cosy, woodsy-chic cafe offering all-day breakfast & lunch staples, plus coffee, tea & baked goods.

Photo Credits: Yorkshire Food Guide

Founded by a foodie herself, Florencia puts all of her love and joy of cooking in the food she serves. Think of a hefty breakfast prepared with ‘compassion, empathy and awareness’ surrounded by various pieces of art and antiques for sale in neo-Victorian rooms. 

Open every day from 9:00 -3:00 PM and you can book a table directly from their website. 

Pivní

Housed within a stunning three-storey, 16th-century building just off the famous Little Shambles, Pivní has been serving up the best in beer since 2007, along with a carefully curated selection of premium cider, wine and spirits from across the globe.

Photo Credits: Dermot Kennedy

Pivní has stood out as an exceptional bar pretty much since it first opened; forging ahead along with the craft beer revolution it has a well-earned reputation as the place to visit for the very best selections of beer, whether it be keg, cask or bottle.

Open every day from 11:30 – 11:00 PM Pivní does not accept reservations, but there is plenty of room for everyone on either of their three floors.

The Falcon Tap

First founded as an ale house in 1715, The Falcon at 94 Micklegate is a unique York pub, defined by its 300 years of history, and transformed for the 21st century by Turning Point Brew Co. into a bright, modern venue which yet still retains its historic charm.

The pub is famous not only for its impressive history but most notably its wide selection of both fresh craft beers & ales from small, independent breweries across the UK & further afield.

Photo Credits: Richard McDougall

The Falcon Tab is a favourite of every Yorker for their events such as their newly introduced Dungeons and Dragons nights as well as beer launches, tastings and festivals and DJ nights.

The pub is open every day from 12:00 PM on the weekends and from 3:00 PM on weekdays until 11:00 PM.

Kuda York

If you’re looking for a proper night out and clubbing make sure to check out Kuda York. 

Conveniently located at 12 Clifford Street, Kuda is one of York’s largest multi-room venues and home to five distinctive bars.

The club is committed to providing entertainment and hosts an array of events throughout. 

On Wednesday they host ‘Wyld Wednesdays’, while Friday’s ‘Shut Down’ is ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-energy experience with entry fees less than £4.00.

The doors usually open at 11 PM and remain so until 3 AM on Wednesday and Friday, with Saturday’s opening earlier at 10 PM. 

Kuda York not only offers a premium nightclub experience but is committed to safety and the highest degree of care available by placing various measures such as entry checks, CCTV, and body cams along with first aid rooms and more. 

Flares York

Another favourite has to be Flares York – a vibrant nightclub with funky pop art design and decade-themed DJ music. 

Open every day until 3 AM the club consistently updates their blog for themed events and special discount offers. They run  3 student nights during term time on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

As we conclude our journey through York’s hottest spots and have curated a perfect day and night out in York  – from charming cafes to trendsetting bars and pulsating nightclubs – we hope you’re inspired to immerse yourself in the vibrant social tapestry of this remarkable city. 

Book your accommodation at Safestay York Micklegate to enjoy a blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Located in the heart of the city, steps away from York’s hottest spots. Sign up for Safestay and get 25% off your stay!