York Restaurant Week is back and, for the first time since it began in 2019, is spanning two weeks (10–23 March). Aren’t we lucky! With over 100 offers ranging from £5 to £30, it’s the perfect time for students to explore the city’s food scene. To cut through the delicious chaos, here are the standout deals:
Best £5 Deals
1. Double Dutch Pancake House
For £5, enjoy a sweet pancake with one topping (golden syrup, peanut butter, melted Biscoff, honey, and more) plus a drink. Choose from coffee, hot chocolate, or refreshing coolers like apple, mango, or dragon fruit. Also, any base can be made vegan or gluten-free for those who may worry their options are limited! Gluten-free options are charged at £0.95 extra
2. Dusk
A student staple, Dusk offers Garlic Bread and a pint for £5. Other deals include New York Pizza Pie, Small Fries, and 2-4-1 cocktails for £20. Running Monday–Friday, 12–5 PM, it’s a great chance to grab a Hot Salami pizza or their Britney Spears cocktail. While not typically renowned for their food, these variously priced deals mean there is something for everyone.
Best £10 Deals
1. Cocoa Joe’s
For those with a sweet tooth or who just adore a warming seasonal drink, Cocoa Joe’s is ending the winter period with a bang. For £10, get two hot chocolates and a 50g bag of chocolate buttons. Choose from Belgian Blonde (30%), Lait Supreme (34%), or Noir Supreme (70.5%). Available all day, so perfect for a cosy treat or study snack! Potentially the biggest bargain of this period considering the luxurious taste Cocoa Joe’s boasts and the variety of rich flavours.
2. Dough Eyed
My favourite UK pizza spot offers a house pizza and soft drink for £10, available daily. While cocktails aren’t included, their Raspberry Kiss and Negroni are worth trying. Their house pizzas include toppings such as nduja, funghi, and my favourite - fennel sausage. It’s important to note, while the offer is valid every day, it is only available between 12-6 PM.
Best £15 Deals
1. The Orchid Vegan Restaurant
A fantastic deal: two tapas and a main for £15 (usually around £20). Tapas include Pumpkin Croquettes, Mini Spring Rolls, and Cumin Vegan Lamb Skewers, while mains range from Vegan Chicken Curry to Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry. Available all opening hours (closed Tuesdays). Although vegan, there truly is something for everyone, so don’t miss out!
2. The Blue Barbakan
Enjoy a breakfast or lunch deal for £15 per person, including any dish from the respective menus plus a coffee, tea, or soft drink. The breakfast offer runs Wednesday–Monday (9 AM–12 PM), with dishes such as pancakes, waffles and eggs; the lunch deal is available daily (except Tuesdays) from 12–3 PM, offering Fish Cakes, Croquettes and Mussels.
Best £20 and Over
1. Tabanco by Ambiente
For £25, enjoy a six-tapas feast featuring Focaccia, Albondigas (meaty or vegan), and Patatas Bravas, plus three additional choices from their special menu. I’d recommend the creamy baked mushrooms and the wild boar ragu with date and caper croquettes, which are both standout dishes. Available Sunday–Thursday (11:30 AM–9:30 PM) and Friday (11:30 AM–5 PM).
2. The Milner
For £30 per person, enjoy a three-course evening meal at Peachey’s Bar & Grill, plus a glass of house wine, beer, or a soft drink. Available daily, 6–9 PM. Some menu items may have a supplement, and reservations are subject to availability. Their set menu includes British classics such as sausage and mash, sticky toffee pudding and an elevated fish and chips. Alternatively, indulge in their Chocolate Afternoon Tea for £30, featuring a selection of sweet and savoury treats with a hot drink of your choice. Served in the picturesque Garden Room, the perfect spot for an indulgent break.
Since its creation, York Restaurant Week has generated an estimated £1.8 million for local businesses, so this is an exciting time for both customers and restaurants alike. Hopefully, students can make the most of the upcoming weeks. Remember to read the terms and conditions of each offer on the website!
