This modern Italian located on Fossgate is a hidden gem with the most incredible interior. With warm ambient lighting and specially crafted set menus, this is great for a date night in the city. The menu is built of Italian classics, including pasta, steak, salads and of course, stonebaked pizzas!

This family run restaurant is definitely one you’ll want to write home about.

Have to try: The sharing meat platter for two.
Perfect for: A romantic evening in York City Centre.
Average price for two: £60

After being on the York foodie scene for over 30 years, it’s no wonder Little Italy feels like home. This gorgeous, authentic, family-run Italian deli is a little slice of heaven. 

Although located on one of York’s busiest streets, this is a cosy, laid back little spot. The huge choice of pastas are to die for, with our favourite being the Risotto Allo Scoglio, yum! As well as an extensive food menu, the wine list is also something special.

Have to try: The seafood pasta dishes with a crisp white wine.
Perfect for: A classic, homely Italian meal.
Average price for two: £55

Pink, classy and elegant, Lucia is another long-standing Italian restaurant in the city. With the most amazing courtyard for sunny days, this place has mastered the summer vibes. 

The menu consists of many seafood dishes, as well as fresh pasta and homemade pizza. The handcrafted cocktails are also one of our favourite things about this spot. If you’re looking for a special treat, you can also get your hands on an Italian bottomless brunch here!

Have to try: The creamy carbonara with a Sarti spritz.
Perfect for: Daytime lunching or a luxurious evening out.
Average price for two: £70

This small but snug restaurant and wine bar is an authentic taste of Italy here in York. The freshly cooked classics showcase the simplicity of amazing food. 

The restaurant is small, but cute and cosy – with plenty of wines to sip throughout the night. The menu consists of everyone’s favourite Italian dishes, think ravioli, gnocchi, pasta, pizza and lots more!

Have to try: The pollo picante calzone with a side of focaccia.
Perfect for: A quick lunch or glass of wine on a busy shopping day.
Average price for two: £55

The views of York and the exquisite service are two of the things that make this place so special. La Vecchia Sculoa is situated inside a 300-year old building in York’s centre. 

With elegant and clean interiors, this place is perfect for a special occasion. The menu is a bit more on the pricier side but there is a lunch menu with 3 courses for under £25!

Have to try: The delicious homemade lasagne.
Perfect for: A special occasion with family.
Average price for two: £90

If you’re all about the pizza, this traditional Neapolitan pizzeria will definitely satisfy those cravings. 

Although the interiors are not as impressive as some others on this list, the food definitely makes up for it! With a huge menu full of perfect topping suggestions and delicious traditional sides, this is the perfect lunch spot nestled amongst the busy shopping streets. You can also take this pizza to go if you’re wanting a cosy night in at home.

Have to try: The customer favourite, Ripieno Napoletano.
Perfect for: A banging lunch or takeaway pizza night.
Average price for two: £30

Possibly the best pizza in York? This bar and eatery offers a casual dining atmosphere with chilled music and 8 draught lines to choose from. 

The restaurant is more of a chilled grab a bite and pint vibe, but it definitely works! One of our favourite things about this place is watching the pizzas being made right in front of us, imagine how exciting it gets when your order is up! As for the food, the adventurous toppings and drinks pairings make this place a local favourite.

Have to try: The classic pepperoni with a pint on the side.
Perfect for: A casual meet up with friends.
Average price for two: £30

If wooden beams and a deep glass of red speaks to you, Wildwood is probably your dream spot. The interiors are homely and warm, setting you up for the perfect date night in the City Centre. 

Although all the classics are front and centre of the menu, there are also a few unique dishes that we haven’t seen at any other places in this list. The philly cheese steak sandwich is bound to have you drooling for weeks!

Have to try: The lunch menu minute steak.
Perfect for: A date night with some proper grub.
Average price for two: £50

Possibly a familiar name, ASK is a popular restaurant in York due to its incredible interiors. Located in the Grand Assembly Rooms, why not indulge in a pizza next to some historic, grand pillars with a chandelier over top? 

Another reason to love this place is that the menu is really affordable, with pizzas available for under £10 each. This is definitely a great spot for a lunch break catch up.

Have to try: The limoncello cheesecake for dessert!
Perfect for: Group dining.
Average price for two: £30

Probably the most authentic feeling restaurant on the list, Toto’s is a hidden gem covered in vintage prints and all things Italy! Right next to the Barbican, this is definitely a locals spot hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the central streets. 

If you don’t fall for its friendly charm straight away (surely impossible), you will be hooked after eating the homemade Italian cuisine classics. Make sure to check the daily specials board!

Have to try: The chef’s special pizza.
Perfect for: A homely meal for two away from the busy centre.
Average price for two: £55