Latest reviews for Bars & Pubs in York, United Kingdom

Oscar's Wine Bar - Oscar's is moving... by oogywawa

oogywawa — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:51:13 +0000

Review by oogywawa

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 01904 652002

Tags: friendly, relaxed, beer garden

There's been a lot of legal goings on behind the scenes at Oscars and from what my well-placed sources tell me it all got a bit frayed around the edges.

Anyway - the owner of the property has decided he wants the place to himself as he's obviously decided it's a goldmine (not a halogen lightbulb if it's taken him this long) and has not renewed the lease / put the rent up to such an extent that it was not viable for Oscar's owners.

Oscar's is moving into the building that Biltmore occupies and both bars will sit side by side.

So - will Oscar's be the same... no I think not - it will still have the name but not the environment that made it so popular. There will be many arguably that would not want to wish the premises that will be renamed (that will be the former Oscars) "all the best", as the owners of Biltmore had built Oscars up from nothing to what it is now and in effect have been ousted.

All's fair in love and war? - you decide what is acceptable, but whatever happens from 1st Feb 2009 Oscars in Little Stonegate will be history...

There's been a lot of legal goings on behind the scenes at Oscars and from what my well-placed sources tell me it all got a bit frayed around the edges.

Anyway - the owner of the property has decided he wants the place to himself as he's obviously decided it's a goldmine (not a halogen lightbulb if it's taken him this long) and has not renewed the lease / put the rent up to such an extent that it was not viable for Oscar's owners.

Oscar's is moving into the building that Biltmore occupies and both bars will sit side by side.

So - will Oscar's be the same... no I think not - it will still have the name but not the environment that made it so popular. There will be many arguably that would not want to wish the premises that will be renamed (that will be the former Oscars) "all the best", as the owners of Biltmore had built Oscars up from nothing to what it is now and in effect have been ousted.

All's fair in love and war? - you decide what is acceptable, but whatever happens from 1st Feb 2009 Oscars in Little Stonegate will be history...

Golden Fleece - Fleeced at the Fleece!! by oogywawa

oogywawa — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 18:20:28 +0000

Review by oogywawa

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 01904 625171

Tags: traditional pub, beer garden, relaxed

This was the first time in a long while that I had a pint of beer that was totally undrinkable. The yukka plant in the rear garden received virtually the whole contents of my glass such was my disgust at the dishwater that passed for Timothy Taylors Landlord.

Alright it was a quiet Sunday night & I know that TTL is a pale shadow of it's former self, which is a crime in itself, but to then serve a warm, cloudy, acetyl mess of a pint is unforgivable.

The Golden Fleece is now run like many pubs, on the basis that food will pay the bills. My own view is the lazy licensee should get his finger out and clean his beer lines because all of his draught beers were the same hazy mess. He obviously works on the premise that there are enough tourists in the world that he doesn't need return visits and this was backed up by the fact that there were no regulars visible anywhere.

I went around the corner to The Blue Bell and got the complete opposite - a crystal clear, well kept, cool pint of TTL that was very acceptable - ON A SUNDAY !!!

2 pubs seperated by 100 yds in distance and a million miles in quality...This was the first time in a long while that I had a pint of beer that was totally undrinkable. The yukka plant in the rear garden received virtually the whole contents of my glass such was my disgust at the dishwater that passed for Timothy Taylors Landlord.

Alright it was a quiet Sunday night & I know that TTL is a pale shadow of it's former self, which is a crime in itself, but to then serve a warm, cloudy, acetyl mess of a pint is unforgivable.

The Golden Fleece is now run like many pubs, on the basis that food will pay the bills. My own view is the lazy licensee should get his finger out and clean his beer lines because all of his draught beers were the same hazy mess. He obviously works on the premise that there are enough tourists in the world that he doesn't need return visits and this was backed up by the fact that there were no regulars visible anywhere.

I went around the corner to The Blue Bell and got the complete opposite - a crystal clear, well kept, cool pint of TTL that was very acceptable - ON A SUNDAY !!!

2 pubs seperated by 100 yds in distance and a million miles in quality...

Waggon & Horses - Mike Higham by MikeHigham

MikeHigham — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 19:01:39 +0000

Review by MikeHigham

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01904 637478

Website: http://www.uniquepubs.com

Tags: relaxed, friendly, traditional pub

This is a cracker! Eight splendid real ales and exceptionally well kept too. This is the northern outpost of the Batemans estate with the brewery based in Wainfleet, Lincolnshire.

There were four Batemans ales and four guests. From the six I tried I was well watered and well looked after by Paul and Mandy and their welcoming staff.

If you like great ales and good food this is well worth a visit - probably leading to further visits.

There are six well appointed bedrooms and a gated car park for secure parking overnight.This is a cracker! Eight splendid real ales and exceptionally well kept too. This is the northern outpost of the Batemans estate with the brewery based in Wainfleet, Lincolnshire.

There were four Batemans ales and four guests. From the six I tried I was well watered and well looked after by Paul and Mandy and their welcoming staff.

If you like great ales and good food this is well worth a visit - probably leading to further visits.

There are six well appointed bedrooms and a gated car park for secure parking overnight.

Fox & Hounds - Award Winning Country Artist Carolyn Foy by carolynfoy

carolynfoy — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:36:45 +0000

Review by carolynfoy

Rating: 5.00Award Winning Country Arist Carolyn Foy will be appearing here on Thursday October 2nd 8.30 pmAward Winning Country Arist Carolyn Foy will be appearing here on Thursday October 2nd 8.30 pm

Kennedy's - reviewed again by mazphd

mazphd — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 08:26:24 +0000

Review by mazphd

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 01904 620222

Website: http://www.kennedyscafebar.co.uk

Tags: live music, cool, relaxed

I felt compelled to re-review kennedy's for the third time, as despite my last glowing words something has gone terribly wrong.

Kennedy's may be new styled, but on my last visit (yesterday) staff were rude and inept, glasses were unclean, our order was wrong (twice) and no apologies were made.

First i had to wait over fifteen minutes to get served at the upstairs bar empty of other customers and with four members of staff 'mucking about' at the back and far more concerned with flirting with one another than taking a simple drinks order.

After being prompted by myself, twice, to, 'please could someone take my drink order please', this was delivered wrong. twice. They also saw fit to overcharge me, and make no apology. Our glasses were dirty and had to be sent back.

In the ladies toilets, i can't speak for the men's, but the ladies was a shocker. water everywhere on the floor. doors off their hinges, loo paper sopping on the floor. the only saving grace was the lack of light, which meant i probably missed the other hygeine related flouting of regulations. in short. yuk.I felt compelled to re-review kennedy's for the third time, as despite my last glowing words something has gone terribly wrong.

Kennedy's may be new styled, but on my last visit (yesterday) staff were rude and inept, glasses were unclean, our order was wrong (twice) and no apologies were made.

First i had to wait over fifteen minutes to get served at the upstairs bar empty of other customers and with four members of staff 'mucking about' at the back and far more concerned with flirting with one another than taking a simple drinks order.

After being prompted by myself, twice, to, 'please could someone take my drink order please', this was delivered wrong. twice. They also saw fit to overcharge me, and make no apology. Our glasses were dirty and had to be sent back.

In the ladies toilets, i can't speak for the men's, but the ladies was a shocker. water everywhere on the floor. doors off their hinges, loo paper sopping on the floor. the only saving grace was the lack of light, which meant i probably missed the other hygeine related flouting of regulations. in short. yuk.

Three Cups Inn - Good food, any time. by cmmort

cmmort — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:49:41 +0000

Review by cmmort

Rating: 4.00

Tags: relaxed, beer garden, friendly

The Vintage Inn chain provides good reliable food all day. There are a couple in York, but we favour the Three Cups Inn at Stamford Bridge for its location and welcoming interior.

I would generally avoid pub chains, but Vintage Inns tend to be a cut above the rest providing a wide range of good food and a suprisingly decent wine list (we're loving their Zinfadel at the moment). The Three Cups Inn at Stamford Bridge has a lovely warm interior with open fires and even a glass-covered well! There are also some tables outside.

On our most recent visit I went for the lamb curry (delicious!) and my other half had the bacon burger. The open chicken pie is another favourite! Service is friendly even at busy times and the manageress pops round to check everything's ok. Price is very reasonable (Â£25ish for two with wine).

This place is perfect if you're heading out and about, but don't want to be tied to pub lunchtimes. After 2pm and still in search of your Sunday roast, then the Three Cups Inn is the answer!The Vintage Inn chain provides good reliable food all day. There are a couple in York, but we favour the Three Cups Inn at Stamford Bridge for its location and welcoming interior.

I would generally avoid pub chains, but Vintage Inns tend to be a cut above the rest providing a wide range of good food and a suprisingly decent wine list (we're loving their Zinfadel at the moment). The Three Cups Inn at Stamford Bridge has a lovely warm interior with open fires and even a glass-covered well! There are also some tables outside.

On our most recent visit I went for the lamb curry (delicious!) and my other half had the bacon burger. The open chicken pie is another favourite! Service is friendly even at busy times and the manageress pops round to check everything's ok. Price is very reasonable (Â£25ish for two with wine).

This place is perfect if you're heading out and about, but don't want to be tied to pub lunchtimes. After 2pm and still in search of your Sunday roast, then the Three Cups Inn is the answer!

The Lamb & Lion - Still Lamb, waiting for the Lion's ROAR by mazphd

mazphd — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:52:18 +0000

Review by mazphd

Rating: 3.00

Tags: standard pub food, mature, relaxed

Well I was misled into thinking that I would be the first to review this 'new' publican house. But it seems that York's worst kept secret is out, with the opening of the Lamb & Lion only a couple of weeks ago three other York reviewers have beaten me to it.

Well things have improved from Oggywawa's evening spent with only ghosts for company, and both Sbrumpton's and Kjhannah's 'disappointment'.

So to my own take. And to start, the bad: well the menu's still not up to scratch. There's only the usual (supposedly 'posh') pub fare grub, with (until this w/e) no vegetarian option. Now vegetarian's do have the option of 'vegetable with dips'. Hmm for what used to be (by all accounts) a reasonable restaurant, the menu and kitchen could do better. Much better.

If sausage and mash is your thing, then you won't be disappointed. And you'll be rewarded with lashings of gravey too.

Over the w/e it was gloriously sunny, and where the sun shines, so too does the L&L. At the back of the pub is a lovely walled garden, with views of the Minster (and sounds of the bells), as well as part of the York Wall. Well worth taking a pew, and listening to the tourists tottle round the Walls. Especially with claims of 'ooo look at that pub garden, how do we get down there', and the inevitable 'Don't fall off the Wall mother! Careful!' I bet the viking's didn't worry about their mother falling off the battlements.

Another plus is that the wine menu for by the glass is reasonably good. I'm disappointed that you can't get a Sancerre, or decent New Zealand Pinot Noir by the glass, but there is a good Rioja and South African Chenin Blanc.

For bar chatter, the French manager is a lively fellow, and more than happy to twist your arm for a Gin&T, rather than just a tonic. Which is what you want in a landlord.

So get the menu together chaps, then the patrons will come. For now, the L&L is quiet, not worthy of vegetarians, but has a lovely garden. Lets hope the sun keep shining.

Oh and I haven't seen any ghosts. Yet.Well I was misled into thinking that I would be the first to review this 'new' publican house. But it seems that York's worst kept secret is out, with the opening of the Lamb & Lion only a couple of weeks ago three other York reviewers have beaten me to it.

Well things have improved from Oggywawa's evening spent with only ghosts for company, and both Sbrumpton's and Kjhannah's 'disappointment'.

So to my own take. And to start, the bad: well the menu's still not up to scratch. There's only the usual (supposedly 'posh') pub fare grub, with (until this w/e) no vegetarian option. Now vegetarian's do have the option of 'vegetable with dips'. Hmm for what used to be (by all accounts) a reasonable restaurant, the menu and kitchen could do better. Much better.

If sausage and mash is your thing, then you won't be disappointed. And you'll be rewarded with lashings of gravey too.

Over the w/e it was gloriously sunny, and where the sun shines, so too does the L&L. At the back of the pub is a lovely walled garden, with views of the Minster (and sounds of the bells), as well as part of the York Wall. Well worth taking a pew, and listening to the tourists tottle round the Walls. Especially with claims of 'ooo look at that pub garden, how do we get down there', and the inevitable 'Don't fall off the Wall mother! Careful!' I bet the viking's didn't worry about their mother falling off the battlements.

Another plus is that the wine menu for by the glass is reasonably good. I'm disappointed that you can't get a Sancerre, or decent New Zealand Pinot Noir by the glass, but there is a good Rioja and South African Chenin Blanc.

For bar chatter, the French manager is a lively fellow, and more than happy to twist your arm for a Gin&T, rather than just a tonic. Which is what you want in a landlord.

So get the menu together chaps, then the patrons will come. For now, the L&L is quiet, not worthy of vegetarians, but has a lovely garden. Lets hope the sun keep shining.

Oh and I haven't seen any ghosts. Yet.

Pivo Cafe Bar - Very Poor by mojojojo

mojojojo — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:12:34 +0000

Review by mojojojo

Rating: 1.00

Tags: relaxed, trendy, friendly

I'm not going to dispute the general feeling of it being a good choice for interesting beers (though it's nothing compared to York's Ackhorne or Evil Eye) and having a generally nice atmosphere, but the customer service in this place is indefensible.

I've been in a couple of times in the past and quite enjoyed it (pray for the lack of space to sit down). I did however, notice that when the bar staff get the impression that you are drunk, they rip you off. When buying a half pint, for example, i noticed about an inch missing off the top (with a lot of head).

I wouldn't have cared, but last week, it became very obvious that the excuse for a manager was actually persuading his staff to rip off customers. We ordered a whisky and coke - they had no coke in the fridge so had to go upstairs to get some - and then 20 minutes later ordered the same drink. Only this time, they couldn't be bothered to go upstairs, so gave us a whisky and tonic. We brought it up to the girl who ordered it and she went to complain, saying that they had asked for it with coke. The fat-ass behind the bar called the manager over, who lied and said he was right next to us when the order was made (we know this to be a lie because we were stood right next to a wall at the time and we were talking to the random guy standing next to us - and besides, has anyone in the history of bars ever ordered a whisky and tonic?!?!?!?!). He said we could get the whisky and coke if we paid for it again.

Now, I'm not a fan of devout customer services, all smile etc. but when the manager of a local pub rips off customers just to save a bit of cash for himself, I take it very personally. Let me assure you, I will never go back there and I suggest nobody else does either, but if you do, I'd go so far as to say check your change and bring a measuring jug just to make sure you get the right measurement.

What reminded me to write this review was walking past it today, someone had put one of their windows through, too right. I only hope whoever did it didn't pay for it, just a way at getting back at a shit excuse for a small pub.

Go to York's many other interesting beer pubs before you so much as think of coming here.I'm not going to dispute the general feeling of it being a good choice for interesting beers (though it's nothing compared to York's Ackhorne or Evil Eye) and having a generally nice atmosphere, but the customer service in this place is indefensible.

I've been in a couple of times in the past and quite enjoyed it (pray for the lack of space to sit down). I did however, notice that when the bar staff get the impression that you are drunk, they rip you off. When buying a half pint, for example, i noticed about an inch missing off the top (with a lot of head).

I wouldn't have cared, but last week, it became very obvious that the excuse for a manager was actually persuading his staff to rip off customers. We ordered a whisky and coke - they had no coke in the fridge so had to go upstairs to get some - and then 20 minutes later ordered the same drink. Only this time, they couldn't be bothered to go upstairs, so gave us a whisky and tonic. We brought it up to the girl who ordered it and she went to complain, saying that they had asked for it with coke. The fat-ass behind the bar called the manager over, who lied and said he was right next to us when the order was made (we know this to be a lie because we were stood right next to a wall at the time and we were talking to the random guy standing next to us - and besides, has anyone in the history of bars ever ordered a whisky and tonic?!?!?!?!). He said we could get the whisky and coke if we paid for it again.

Now, I'm not a fan of devout customer services, all smile etc. but when the manager of a local pub rips off customers just to save a bit of cash for himself, I take it very personally. Let me assure you, I will never go back there and I suggest nobody else does either, but if you do, I'd go so far as to say check your change and bring a measuring jug just to make sure you get the right measurement.

What reminded me to write this review was walking past it today, someone had put one of their windows through, too right. I only hope whoever did it didn't pay for it, just a way at getting back at a shit excuse for a small pub.

Go to York's many other interesting beer pubs before you so much as think of coming here.

The Old White Swan - Poor old swan! by cmmort

cmmort — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:57:27 +0000

Review by cmmort

Rating: 2.00

Tags: pub chain, standard pub food, pretentious

Sad to say I can only add a solitary spark of upbeat encouragement and great deal of nodding to the previous reviews of The Old White Swan.

I generally wouldn't dream of going for a drink in this pub (nevermind eating) - despite the recent refurb it still (or already) smells of pub faves urine and vomit, always seems overcrowded, and as mentioned by others the overcrowding is mostly loud drunk people watching big screen sports.

HOWEVER, the one glimmer of hope on the otherwise 'avoid at all costs' horizon is Big Ian's Music Quiz on a Wednesday night. He's great! You can get a decent glass of shiraz for Â£2.50 and a table if you turn up at 8ish. Surround yourself with a goodly supply of wise friends and bob's your uncle - how to have a good night out at The Old White Swan!Sad to say I can only add a solitary spark of upbeat encouragement and great deal of nodding to the previous reviews of The Old White Swan.

I generally wouldn't dream of going for a drink in this pub (nevermind eating) - despite the recent refurb it still (or already) smells of pub faves urine and vomit, always seems overcrowded, and as mentioned by others the overcrowding is mostly loud drunk people watching big screen sports.

HOWEVER, the one glimmer of hope on the otherwise 'avoid at all costs' horizon is Big Ian's Music Quiz on a Wednesday night. He's great! You can get a decent glass of shiraz for Â£2.50 and a table if you turn up at 8ish. Surround yourself with a goodly supply of wise friends and bob's your uncle - how to have a good night out at The Old White Swan!

Ye Olde Starre Inn - by leanneovenden

leanneovenden — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:51:15 +0000

Review by leanneovenden

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01904 623063

Tags: relaxed, friendly, food

I like the Starre. The beer garden is large with lots of seating and tables and you can't miss the sign hanging over Stonegate! The food is also lovely and not badly priced. The pub itself has lots of character and history, with a friendly, cosy atmosphere. The pub is in a prime position, not far from the Minister, market and shops. The price of the drinks is about average for York, and it's lovely sipping an ice-cold pint in the beer garden after a hard day's shopping! The pub is also family friendly and the staff are also pleasant. Definitely worth a visit.I like the Starre. The beer garden is large with lots of seating and tables and you can't miss the sign hanging over Stonegate! The food is also lovely and not badly priced. The pub itself has lots of character and history, with a friendly, cosy atmosphere. The pub is in a prime position, not far from the Minister, market and shops. The price of the drinks is about average for York, and it's lovely sipping an ice-cold pint in the beer garden after a hard day's shopping! The pub is also family friendly and the staff are also pleasant. Definitely worth a visit.

The Punch Bowl - by leanneovenden

leanneovenden — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:47:32 +0000

Review by leanneovenden

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01904 615491

Tags: live music, traditional english, food

I love The Punch Bowl! I first visited this lovely littel pub a couple of years back and had such a good experience, that I now visit every time I'm in York. The pub is gorgeous - very old and with a fantastic history, which you can read all about inside the pub. Although it looks small, the venue is deceptively large, with ample seating for diners. The menu is up outside, which makes you feel unrushed about deciding where to eat. The food is fantastic - the Chicken, Leek & Wiltshire Ham pie is to die for. The menu is big with lots of choice, and the meals that my friends have ordered from The Punch Bowl have all been delicious too. The price of the drinks is not excessive and the place has a wonderful atmosphere. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly too - top marks!I love The Punch Bowl! I first visited this lovely littel pub a couple of years back and had such a good experience, that I now visit every time I'm in York. The pub is gorgeous - very old and with a fantastic history, which you can read all about inside the pub. Although it looks small, the venue is deceptively large, with ample seating for diners. The menu is up outside, which makes you feel unrushed about deciding where to eat. The food is fantastic - the Chicken, Leek & Wiltshire Ham pie is to die for. The menu is big with lots of choice, and the meals that my friends have ordered from The Punch Bowl have all been delicious too. The price of the drinks is not excessive and the place has a wonderful atmosphere. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly too - top marks!

Blackwell Ox - blackwell ox by jillycat

jillycat — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:16:06 +0000

Review by jillycat

Rating: 5.00

Tags: brasserie, family & home feel, good value

We have being going to this family run pub and restaurant for several years. The quality of the food is superb. The food is sourced from local farms and producers, They will tell which farm the beef fro the Sunday roast has come from. There is a cheese board in which you can make your selection from several local cheeses with accompanying homemade biscuits.
We had initially gone to this restaurant as a couple but no go there as a family. The highchairs are clean and the staff are very considerate with the children and in our case provided some pea puree for out little to have. He had like the taste of mine that had gone with my scallops.We have being going to this family run pub and restaurant for several years. The quality of the food is superb. The food is sourced from local farms and producers, They will tell which farm the beef fro the Sunday roast has come from. There is a cheese board in which you can make your selection from several local cheeses with accompanying homemade biscuits.
We had initially gone to this restaurant as a couple but no go there as a family. The highchairs are clean and the staff are very considerate with the children and in our case provided some pea puree for out little to have. He had like the taste of mine that had gone with my scallops.

The Blue Bell - Lovely! by anaisby

anaisby — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:44:20 +0000

Review by anaisby

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01904 654904

Tags: relaxed, friendly, independent pub

Cracking little pub, overlooked by many thank goodness. Great beer, great atmosphere, mostly locals. Very reasonable price for a bottle of champagne for you girlies so something for everyone. Small and cosy, but well worth a visit. Just up from the river. Oh I so miss York! Cant wait to move back.Cracking little pub, overlooked by many thank goodness. Great beer, great atmosphere, mostly locals. Very reasonable price for a bottle of champagne for you girlies so something for everyone. Small and cosy, but well worth a visit. Just up from the river. Oh I so miss York! Cant wait to move back.

The Biltmore - The old style over content debate! by cmmort

cmmort — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:34:44 +0000

Review by cmmort

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01904 6100 75

Website: http://www.thebiltmorebarandgrill.com/

Tags: cool & smart, posh, glamorous

The Biltmore Bar and Grill has certainly bought a much-needed element of what can only be described as 'swank' to Yorkâ¬"s nightlife. While olde-worldy pubs, towny chain bars and kooky artsy/studenty bars are plentiful, The Biltmore has filled a hole that we definitely felt needed to be filled.

The interior of the bar looks stunning, I particularly like the upstairs glass fronted wall showing shelves and shelves of champagne and wine bottles. There are comfortable booths along both sides of the main space downstairs, with small tables and high stools dotted around the central bar (which also provides perching opportunities). There is also a small external terrace. Upstairs there is a small lounge/bar area and then a restaurant on a balcony.

The Biltmore has an extensive wine and cocktail list, and foodwise offers an excellent grill menu at the tables to the right of the bar downstairs, with a full restaurant menu served upstairs. On anything but the quietest of weeknights, it is advisable to book to eat. I've only eaten from the grill menu served downstairs, but I can thoroughly recommend the food - my favourite is the Chicken and Chorizo pasta, one of the nicest I've had. And the food prices are very reasonable too (about Â£15-Â£20 a head with wine too).

My top tip for The Biltmore is the Champagne 60 offer. At certain hours each day they have huge discounts on 60 items on the wine/drink list and menu. A bottle of wine for well under a tenner! You can become a Champagne 60 member, which extends the times the discounts are valid and has certain constant offers. We became members at my birthday party this year - the membership costs Â£27.50 but you get a free Â£33 bottle of Moet! Moet then costs Â£25 a bottle with the discount (Â£8 off) - we made full use of this and had an amazing night (it was a special birthday I hasten to add!) and have been enjoying discount food and drink there ever since!

The Biltmore is without doubt very aware of it's swanky status in York, and is erring on the pretentious side. If you like your ale real and your service with a smile, you probably won't love it here. However, if you can see past the smugness and enjoy the elegant surroundings with a reasonably priced glass of champers in your hand this is definitely for you. The people-watching (particularly those who fully embrace the pretentious side ... think racegoers!) is always a fun pastime here!The Biltmore Bar and Grill has certainly bought a much-needed element of what can only be described as 'swank' to Yorkâ¬"s nightlife. While olde-worldy pubs, towny chain bars and kooky artsy/studenty bars are plentiful, The Biltmore has filled a hole that we definitely felt needed to be filled.

The interior of the bar looks stunning, I particularly like the upstairs glass fronted wall showing shelves and shelves of champagne and wine bottles. There are comfortable booths along both sides of the main space downstairs, with small tables and high stools dotted around the central bar (which also provides perching opportunities). There is also a small external terrace. Upstairs there is a small lounge/bar area and then a restaurant on a balcony.

The Biltmore has an extensive wine and cocktail list, and foodwise offers an excellent grill menu at the tables to the right of the bar downstairs, with a full restaurant menu served upstairs. On anything but the quietest of weeknights, it is advisable to book to eat. I've only eaten from the grill menu served downstairs, but I can thoroughly recommend the food - my favourite is the Chicken and Chorizo pasta, one of the nicest I've had. And the food prices are very reasonable too (about Â£15-Â£20 a head with wine too).

My top tip for The Biltmore is the Champagne 60 offer. At certain hours each day they have huge discounts on 60 items on the wine/drink list and menu. A bottle of wine for well under a tenner! You can become a Champagne 60 member, which extends the times the discounts are valid and has certain constant offers. We became members at my birthday party this year - the membership costs Â£27.50 but you get a free Â£33 bottle of Moet! Moet then costs Â£25 a bottle with the discount (Â£8 off) - we made full use of this and had an amazing night (it was a special birthday I hasten to add!) and have been enjoying discount food and drink there ever since!

The Biltmore is without doubt very aware of it's swanky status in York, and is erring on the pretentious side. If you like your ale real and your service with a smile, you probably won't love it here. However, if you can see past the smugness and enjoy the elegant surroundings with a reasonably priced glass of champers in your hand this is definitely for you. The people-watching (particularly those who fully embrace the pretentious side ... think racegoers!) is always a fun pastime here!

KoKo International Bar - Questionable by townlad

townlad — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:07:36 +0000

Review by townlad

Rating: 3.00

Tags: relaxed, cool, friendly

Lovely building with great views of York Minster.
We enjoyed the draught Hacker Weizen but the English cask ales were terribly cloudy and were told to accept this by the bar staff as it was a chill haze! Not sure if the beer is being well cared for?
There were some very drunk locals in with a bit of clique at the bar.
Otherwise, the bar man / owner was really pleasant and knowledable.Lovely building with great views of York Minster.
We enjoyed the draught Hacker Weizen but the English cask ales were terribly cloudy and were told to accept this by the bar staff as it was a chill haze! Not sure if the beer is being well cared for?
There were some very drunk locals in with a bit of clique at the bar.
Otherwise, the bar man / owner was really pleasant and knowledable.

Brigantes - By far one of the best in York! by kjhannah

kjhannah — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:48:35 +0000

Review by kjhannah

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01904 675355

Website: http://www.markettowntaverns.co.uk

Tags: friendly, young professionals, mature

Brigantes has been open for a few years now and it is only just beginning to be on the 'real ale radar' which is a shame as right from the start it had potential to be one of, if not the best, drinking establishment in York.

Now CAMRA Pub of the Year 2008, and rightly so, this pub/bar/braserie ticks all the right boxes for me. Excellent, well kept real ales, featuring both local and regional breweries. If you see a beer you fancy, try it there and then as you'll be guaranteed it wonâ¬"t be on tomorrow!

There is also an excellent selection of Belgian, continental and world beers and lagers, both on draught and in bottles. Supporting this is also an excellent choice of wines and spirits.

One thing I can say is that it is probably the best place in York to eat. Just have the posh pie and you'll agree with me! Real Chips and a 'sausage of the day' just make this place outstanding. Food is of excellent quality, presented well but not overly fussy and portions are good, so you wonâ¬"t feel let down by the price.

Yes I know its on Micklegate - traditionally avoided by anyone that wants a quality beer due to its 'Micklegate Run', and sometimes considered 'the wrong side of the river', but I urge you to programme this into your route as if you donâ¬"t you'll wander why you'd missed it!
Brigantes has been open for a few years now and it is only just beginning to be on the 'real ale radar' which is a shame as right from the start it had potential to be one of, if not the best, drinking establishment in York.

Now CAMRA Pub of the Year 2008, and rightly so, this pub/bar/braserie ticks all the right boxes for me. Excellent, well kept real ales, featuring both local and regional breweries. If you see a beer you fancy, try it there and then as you'll be guaranteed it wonâ¬"t be on tomorrow!

There is also an excellent selection of Belgian, continental and world beers and lagers, both on draught and in bottles. Supporting this is also an excellent choice of wines and spirits.

One thing I can say is that it is probably the best place in York to eat. Just have the posh pie and you'll agree with me! Real Chips and a 'sausage of the day' just make this place outstanding. Food is of excellent quality, presented well but not overly fussy and portions are good, so you wonâ¬"t feel let down by the price.

Yes I know its on Micklegate - traditionally avoided by anyone that wants a quality beer due to its 'Micklegate Run', and sometimes considered 'the wrong side of the river', but I urge you to programme this into your route as if you donâ¬"t you'll wander why you'd missed it!

The Yorkshire Terrier - by kjhannah

kjhannah — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:31:43 +0000

Review by kjhannah

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01904 631267

Tags: relaxed, friendly, food

York's best kept secret! - DOnt let the Stannah stair lift put you off, this is an absolute Gem and a must on the York Real Ale scene. Its cunningly hidden away behind the gift shop, but do not hesitate to go in as what you will have before you is up to 9 Real Ales, including the must-try York Brewery permanents, a York Seasonal and beers from a wide array of UK breweries.

If you are new to real ales or just indecisive (but not too sure), why not try the 'tasting tray' where you get 4 third-pint glasses of any 4 ales.

Food is served daily, well behaved dogs are made welcome (a rarity in York apparently) and the staff are fantastic!York's best kept secret! - DOnt let the Stannah stair lift put you off, this is an absolute Gem and a must on the York Real Ale scene. Its cunningly hidden away behind the gift shop, but do not hesitate to go in as what you will have before you is up to 9 Real Ales, including the must-try York Brewery permanents, a York Seasonal and beers from a wide array of UK breweries.

If you are new to real ales or just indecisive (but not too sure), why not try the 'tasting tray' where you get 4 third-pint glasses of any 4 ales.

Food is served daily, well behaved dogs are made welcome (a rarity in York apparently) and the staff are fantastic!

Tap & Spile - by kjhannah

kjhannah — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 15:50:53 +0000

Review by kjhannah

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01904 656158

Website: http://www.enterpriseinns.com

Tags: food, traditional english

An excellent Real Ale pub situated just outside the bar walls. This pub benefits from having a large out-door area. The excellent range of real ales are ever changing and include local and regional breweries. Food is Served at Lunch times.An excellent Real Ale pub situated just outside the bar walls. This pub benefits from having a large out-door area. The excellent range of real ales are ever changing and include local and regional breweries. Food is Served at Lunch times.

The Bluebell Inn - Excellent food! by cmmort

cmmort — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:28:09 +0000

Review by cmmort

Rating: 5.00

Tags: relaxed, independent pub, friendly

To put it quite simply, this is a lovely village pub in a lovely village, and it serves excellent food!

We went to this pub for a family sunday lunch and had a brilliant time. Alne is just off the A19, so easily accessible from York. The village is really picture-postcard lovely, and family heading to the village from a different direction had the added bonus of a trip across a rickety wooden toll bridge manned by a very well-spoken old gent!

The restaurant in the pub was big and spacious (as was the car park) and very smart. The Sunday lunch menu was extensive, not just your usual beef or chicken options here. I plumped for some delicious roast pork, with a lemon and lime cheesecake for desert. All our party were very happy with the meal. The service was great and the wine list also extensive.

While I can't comment on cost, having been a treat, I don't remember thinking the prices on the menu seemed outlandish and with food this good, it would be worth paying a bit extra.

At a time when a number of our country pub favourites seem to have gone downhill food-wise, it was perfect timing to find the gem that is The Bluebell Inn - and we will be returning very soon.To put it quite simply, this is a lovely village pub in a lovely village, and it serves excellent food!

We went to this pub for a family sunday lunch and had a brilliant time. Alne is just off the A19, so easily accessible from York. The village is really picture-postcard lovely, and family heading to the village from a different direction had the added bonus of a trip across a rickety wooden toll bridge manned by a very well-spoken old gent!

The restaurant in the pub was big and spacious (as was the car park) and very smart. The Sunday lunch menu was extensive, not just your usual beef or chicken options here. I plumped for some delicious roast pork, with a lemon and lime cheesecake for desert. All our party were very happy with the meal. The service was great and the wine list also extensive.

While I can't comment on cost, having been a treat, I don't remember thinking the prices on the menu seemed outlandish and with food this good, it would be worth paying a bit extra.

At a time when a number of our country pub favourites seem to have gone downhill food-wise, it was perfect timing to find the gem that is The Bluebell Inn - and we will be returning very soon.

Ha! Ha! Bar & Canteen - Pullers paradise by mazphd

mazphd — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:37:28 +0000

Review by mazphd

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 01904 655868

Website: http://www.hahaonline.co.uk

Tags: bar, students, trendy

Reliant on loud throbbing base music, the emphasis is on dress to pull, and pull to undress. Two words sum this place up, Meat Market.

Perfect if you're under twenty, going on tweeny and want to go one base further than the back of the bike sheds.

Surprisingly pleasing wine menu though. Vast and good choice (hence the two stars). Food is hit and miss, they seem to be contantly advertising for chef and kitchen staff. That can't be good for the quality of the kitchen. But you can see the kitchen from the bar, which is always a plus. No Rogue restaurant X-files here.

Ha! Ha!'s has also undergone another make-over. Which makes 2 in as many years. This means new paint (red), some pot plants and still the same loo facilities.

Stay for the wine list, leave when the DJ comes out.Reliant on loud throbbing base music, the emphasis is on dress to pull, and pull to undress. Two words sum this place up, Meat Market.

Perfect if you're under twenty, going on tweeny and want to go one base further than the back of the bike sheds.

Surprisingly pleasing wine menu though. Vast and good choice (hence the two stars). Food is hit and miss, they seem to be contantly advertising for chef and kitchen staff. That can't be good for the quality of the kitchen. But you can see the kitchen from the bar, which is always a plus. No Rogue restaurant X-files here.

Ha! Ha!'s has also undergone another make-over. Which makes 2 in as many years. This means new paint (red), some pot plants and still the same loo facilities.

Stay for the wine list, leave when the DJ comes out.