Summer 2023 will see the opening of a new restaurant set in an iconic historical building in the heart of York: York Minster Refectory.
Led by Michelin Star chef, Andrew Pern, of acclaimed The Star Inn The City and The Star Inn At Harome, York Minster Refectory will serve dishes rooted in the best produce from Yorkshire, celebrating its abundant moors and coastline, whilst guests enjoy unparalleled views overlooking York Minster. This new opening is the latest in a string of exciting new spaces launching in this burgeoning foodie city, cementing its reputation as the food capital of the North.
Located in a stunning setting, tucked off York’s cobbled streets, York Minster Refectory occupies the old school situated next to the cathedral. Steeped in history, the original York Minster site dates back to 627 AD, with the main building of the adjacent school built in 1833. Following a delicate refurbishment by GEM Construction, the Grade II listed space has been transformed into an elegant, welcoming dining space by award-winning, Pickering-based firm, Rachel McLane Ltd.
The interior is sympathetic to the building’s heritage. Neo-gothic design elements – including original large latticed windows, wooden corbels with carved faces and considerable stone archways – are highlighted and brought up to date with relaxed furniture in dark oak tones and antique brushed brass. A private dining space seating up to 40 guests provides a stunning setting for a special meal, offering seasonal group menus served in grande upper level room featuring a huge arched window overlooking the cathedral. Outside, guests are welcomed to dine on the extraordinary 150-seater sun soaked terrace, the perfect spot for champagne and locally sourced oysters on a summer afternoon.
The menu, developed by Andrew Pern alongside Executive Chef Joshua Brimmell (previously Head Chef at Minster Mill), lets the seasons dictate its dishes. Each element, from meat, to vegetable, to herb is taken from the Vale of York’s high quality and varied pantry of food and is supplied by a full array of White Rose flag producers. Presenting new takes on old-fashioned British-style favourites and Anglicised French classics, the menu has been designed to be accessible for all.
The all-day offering covers choices from the Al la Carte menu, to enjoy indoors or out on the terrace, including; Coronation Crab ‘Vol-au-vent’ with sultanas, flaked almonds and coriander, Steak Tartare with gherkin ketchup, cured egg yolk, dripping and onion cracker, and Black Treacle Salmon with scallions, pickled ginger, wasabi and sesame dressing.
Those choosing to stay for the full dining experience can expect starters including; White Onion Velouté with Brew York cider, charred grelots, black garlic with apple & sultana brioche “whirl”, Slow Cooked Pig’s Cheeks with radish, pea & broad bean salad, smoked bacon croutons and Granny Smith apple, and the Refectory Cocktail of Atlantic prawns, spiced crab, crevette, mussels and clams, avocado served with a warm tin loaf.
Main courses, or the ‘Main Event’ as dictated on the menu, range from; Chargrilled Loin Of Yorkshire Venison with haunch and black pudding potato pressing, new season turnip and sauce “grand veneur”, “Bouillabaisse” Of Roasted Stone Bass with Shetland mussels, crispy squid, king scallop, Whitby crab “rouille” toast and coastal pickings, Yorkshire Wolds Chicken Breast with Lyonnaise potatoes, spenwood shavings, torched gem and a sprinkling of pancetta, plus Wild Mushroom and Summer Truffle “Pithivier” with charred broccoli, walnut ketchup, pickled girolles and salted cracked hazelnuts.
Desserts range from the traditional with a twist, to the inventive, with Granny’s Tipsy Peach and Amaretto Trifle, “Bananas and Custard” using dark rum, muscovado sugar and cinder toffee, and the “Minster Mess”, with Yorkshire strawberries, meringue, hay and vanilla creme and elderflower.
On the opening and partnership, Pern comments, ‘Giving the historic building a new life, and partnering with York Minster for this opening, has been a dream come true. I have grown up here and seen my York develop into a key destination for both history and incredible dining experiences. The opening of York Minster Refectory plays tribute to the best Yorkshire has to offer – across the produce and menus we serve, and the incredible location we are lucky to be set in.’
York Minster Refectory is now open for bookings at York Minster Refectory, 2 Deangate, York, YO1 7JA.
Reservations are now open via: yorkminsterrefectory.co.uk
@yorkminsterrefectory | Open Monday – Sunday
Covers: approx 80 indoors and 150 outdoors on the terrace
