The best restaurant for dinner in York

There’s a certain kind of meal that stays with you — one where every dish feels considered, every ingredient earns its place, and the evening stretches out in the best possible way. That’s what we set out to create with our à la carte menu at The Old Liquor Store.

We keep things seasonal and unfussy, but never boring. Starters are where the kitchen gets to show off a little. The Dressed Crab & Heirloom Tomato Tartlet is a study in balance — bright, fresh, and precise — while the Double Baked “Arnold Bennett” Soufflé, lifted with summer truffle and roasted hazelnut, is the kind of dish that earns a moment of silence at the table. For something a little more robust, the Crispy Pig’s Head Fritter with smoked eel and gooseberry pickle delivers real depth and texture. And the Steamed “Blue Monday” Custard — served with sticky Guinness bread, celery, and granny smith — is quietly one of the most interesting things on the menu.

Mains are built around quality produce and cooking that respects it. The Pan Roasted Corn Fed Chicken Supreme comes with a rich albufera sauce and beautifully crisped skin; the Grilled Red Mullet sits on a smoked almond and pimento romesco that sings. If you’re after something heartier, the Old Bay Rubbed Picanha Steak with bone marrow gravy and nasturtium chimichurri is exactly what a great steak night should look like. Vegetarians are well looked after too — the Courgette, Marjoram & Ricotta Sformato with smoked beetroot tarama and salsa verde is a genuine standout. Keep an eye on the specials board for our market fish dish of the day, which changes with what’s best and freshest.

Sides here are not an afterthought. The truffle and parmesan fries, juniper creamed hispi cabbage, and triple cooked chips with roasted garlic aioli have their own loyal following — order generously and share freely.

To finish, the Heather Honey Crème Caramel with strawberries in elderflower wine is light, elegant, and quietly perfect. The 72% Bitter Chocolate Truffle with raspberry and Cointreau brings a little more drama. Or simply settle in with the cheese plate and a glass from our dessert wine selection.

Two courses from £36, three from £44. We think you’ll want all three.