A street which speaks to York’s long history with food, Bishopthorpe Road is one of my absolute favourite foodie hotspots in the city.

The Chocolate Works on Bishopthorpe Road is the original site of the Terry’s factory, opened in 1926, soon followed by the establishment of their most famous product, the Chocolate Orange in 1932. Whilst the Chocolate Works themselves were closed in 2005, to be replaced by apartments and houses, the Art Deco building still stands proudly at the fringes of York’s city centre and I think it’s quite apt that it is also right at the cusp of one of the most desirable areas for food-lovers.

My first important mention is the Greengrocer’s, Millie’s, featured as the photo at the top of this blog. The display outside is tantalising and I often can’t help myself but buy a peach or something because it just gets me every time. My absolute dream (this is something I will tell anyone that will listen) is to do my weekly shop in a very traditional way. To go to the butcher’s and the bakers and the greengrocers to get all the bits and pieces I need for a week of cooking. Honestly I think it would bankrupt me but I would be happy.

Next important mention is Robinsons. An absolutely stellar brunch, probably my favourite in York, their menu is creative and keeps things interesting. This is no mean feat in the saturated brunch market, especially in a place like York which practically screams ‘let’s go for brunch’ because it’s old and quaint and nice to wander around. Across the road we have three spots that I love and need to spend more time in!

1. Stanley and Ramona – cute coffee shop, great cake
2. The Good Food Shop – Heaven for a posh ingredient lover such as moi! I love looking at all the different jars of things. Need to try one of the sandwiches too.
3. Angel on the Green – One of my parents favourites but I’ve never been, really keen to try the pizza!

My final mention is the Bishy Weigh, a refill shop which was very early to the refill shop game I might add. It was also where I first saw the Tony’s Chocalonley’s Advent Calendar which I am SO excited to open everyday in December.

Ultimately, there are countless places on Bishy Road, that dwell underneath the pretty bunting and that are frequented by well dressed people, that I think hold onto the foodie history of York. There is a lively, comfortable atmosphere at all times and everyone that works in the cute shops is always up for a chat.

– Koré