South Bank, International Restaurant Guide

The Mannion clan first opened this venue as a greengrocers’ three decades ago; its current incarnation is as a “charming café-deli that consistently delivers on quality, atmosphere and indulgence” (be it Full English breakfasts or pork belly sandwiches), and offers “very efficient and friendly” service to boot. There’s also a sibling in Helmsley (the Easingwold spin-off having closed in summer 2025).

2023 Review: “Whilst walking in the area, dropped in for lunch without prior knowledge – what a gem!". Kerry & Martel Smith’s rustic gastropub by the River Ouse, is consistently well rated. “The ambience and friendly welcome make it immediately a winner and that’s cemented with the tremendous cuisine”.

2024 Review: An “excellent” Polish restaurant (also drawing on wider European influences) that is “doing well in its enlarged setting” in Fossgate – having swapped its former Walmgate home for the old premises of the Blue Bicycle in 2020 (and having added blue to its name in tribute). Top Tip – “go hungry as the portions (of pierogi, stews, etc.) are huge, hearty and tasty”, and you may then be “too full to try the excellent-looking selection of cakes”.