Alley Cats, 3 Coffee Yard
When roaming the network of snickleways, desperately attempting to escape the hoards of tourists that have suddenly decided to descend on York, I stumbled across Alley Cats. Tucked secretly next to Barley Hall in the aptly named Coffee Yard, this café-bar is the ideal retreat at the heart of city.
Offering a wide selection of snacks and meals, Alley Cats is open between 12 noon and 11pm, with seating inside and out. They serve tasty traditional pub food in generous portions, however it is the relaxed, classy and romantic atmosphere that is memorable, and the location is perfect for those group photos you keep meaning to take.
Although not the cheapest option, this is the perfect place for when you are feeling particularly sophisticated, or in need of some post-exams/essay therapy. I was particularly taken with their impossibly layered café latte. However, the unfortunate downside here is being gawped at by the few tourists who do discover the labyrinth, in particular when the Hidden York tour passes; evidently my brie and mushroom baguette was infinitely more interesting than what educational morsels the colossal ‘monk’ had to impart. Definitely worth a visit for those seeking a historical haven, if you can find it.
Reviewed by
Ella Paremain
