Eating out at The Principal York

I recently revisited The Principal York and it was so good I knew I needed to dig out my Sunday Roast review and tell you all again how fantastic this place is. Before I do I thought I’d also share the photos from my recent meal at the Hotel.

The food was fantastic and the hotel couldn’t do enough for us. You have to try their new Frose, frozen rose Prosecco – it’s the stuff of dreams!

The Principal York are all about local produce and have recently teamed up with Jason Wardell who will be heading up their back of house team to keep the food innovation alive. To start I has Chicken Caesar Croquettes, followed by delicious Fish & chips and to finish we shared various desserts but my favourite was this Lemon Meringue Pie!

Reading it back, I do slightly cringe, I never knew Niki (Michael’s friend) would go on to be my gorgeous boyfriend. How one meal can change your life!

Sunday Lunch at The Principal York

Sunday roasts are not a treat but mandatory for Yorkshire folk. I’m always on the search for a great Yorkshire Pudding so when I was asked to try The Refectory at The Principal York I had to stop myself from drooling.

The Principal York, situated in the centre of York, next to the train station, has undergone an incredible transformation. Now it’s interiors look like they should be on the cover of a homes and interiors magazine. I was in my element looking at its style and elegance. Not so long ago I took afternoon tea in their Garden Room (pictured on the left below) however today met up with Michael from Raindrop Digital and his friend Niki for a proper Sunday roast in the The Refectory.

The Refectory (pictured on the right below) is the hotel’s all day restaurant. Set just outside York train station the casual-dining restaurant is a lovely bright conservatory with modern Edison lighting and hip planting.  On a Sunday they have live music. Today Dave Hanson was playing his guitar and singing along which made for a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

We all opted for their three course Sunday roast at £23.95 but you could have a two course for £19.95.

The Super Starter

I chose the heritage beetroot, Bosworth Ash soft cheese, chicory and sprinkled with walnuts. It was lovely and fresh. the tart bite of the beetroot and chicory complimented the creamy cheese and rich walnuts. It was a fabulous starter and a good portion too. The boys had smoked salmon, avocado with granary toast. It looked super healthy and something I’d have for breakfast but these two were all into that health stuff… I suppose so am I now! I have to be otherwise with these reviews I’d be the size of a house!!!

The Main Event

There was no dilly-dallying around we all chose the Chef’s special – Roasted beef steak with all the trimmings – yes! Three plates full of the most delicious roasted beef arrived with lashings of gravy and a giant Yorkshire pudding. However, I have to say the main event was the incredible roasted cauliflower and broccoli cheese. It was so rich and comforting. truly the best accompaniment for any roast dinner.

The Heavenly Pud

Being a chocoholic there was no question what I was having… the baked chocolate tart with crème fraiche. Again the quality of the food was outstanding. I’ve never tasted a chocolate tart like it. It was heart-stoppingly good and if you visit please promise me you will try this delicious dessert. The guys had strawberry and cream sundae which looked so cute.

With a menu that celebrates local, seasonal produce from God’s Own Country, you can dine for lunch from 12 – 2.30pm and dinner from 5pm Monday to Saturday and Sundays from 12pm at The Refectory Kitchen & Terrace, that’s right next to York train station. Breakfast is served: Monday -Friday 06:30-10:00am and Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 07.30 – 11.00am

P.S. Thank you to The Principal York for their hospitality and gorgeous Sunday roast!