5 of the Best Alfresco Dining Spots in York

1. Sora at Malmaison – Rooftop Dining, But Make It Designer

When it comes to the Best Al Fresco Dining Spots in York, Sora’s rooftop at Malmaison is a serious contender.

Let’s be honest—York’s not exactly known for its skyscrapers, which is why Sora’s rooftop feels like a rare slice of city glamour. Up here, it’s all sleek furniture, skyline views and cocktails that look like they’ve been filtered twice. The Asian-inspired small plates (miso-glazed black cod, chicken yakitori, and Korean lamb cutlets) are perfect for sharing—unless you’re hangry, in which case we suggest not. The drinks menu is a vibe on its own: spritzes, margs, and bubbly things that go down far too easily. Bonus points for the plush seating and Insta-perfect lighting. If you’re after bougie bites with a view—and the perfect setting for pretending you’re on a rooftop in Barcelona—Sora’s your gal.

Sora – Rooftop Japanese Restaurant With Views Over York’s Skyline

2. The Fat Badger York – Pub Garden Royalty

If you’re looking for classic British pub garden energy with a side of Georgian elegance, The Fat Badger delivers. Tucked right in the heart of the city (opposite the Museum Gardens), its leafy terrace feels both central and secretly peaceful. Think chunky wooden tables, historic vibes, and maybe even a cheeky squirrel sighting if you’re lucky. The food? Elevated pub grub done right—the Badger beef burger, truffle & Parmesan fries, ox cheek ragu, and the kind of Sunday roast that’ll haunt your dreams (in a good way). The drinks list covers everything from real ales to posh G&Ts. It’s casual but classy, perfect for catch-ups, date nights, or when you just want to sit in the sun with a pint and a smug expression.

3. The Whippet Inn – Steak, Sun & Saucy Vibes

If The Whippet Inn were a person, it’d be that effortlessly cool mate who always brings the best snacks to the BBQ. Known for its top-tier steaks and seductive cocktails, this place also boasts a hidden courtyard garden that feels like you’ve stumbled into someone’s (very stylish) secret party. It’s cosy, quirky and made for long, lazy lunches with just one more glass of red. The menu’s meat-forward, obviously—fillet, ribeye, chateaubriand if you’re feeling fancy—but there’s also seafood, veggie options and a killer sticky toffee pud. Staff are warm, the soundtrack’s cool, and the outside space is full of charm. Basically, if you like your al fresco dining with a little edge (and a lot of wine), this is where you need to be.

4. Stonegate Yard – Courtyard Goals with Proper Pub Feels

Stonegate Yard is York’s answer to the pub-courtyard combo we didn’t know we needed. Hidden just off the bustling cobbles of Stonegate, this converted townhouse gives you the goods: classic pub fare, a stacked bar, and a courtyard that feels like your nan’s garden had a glow-up. There are fairy lights, stone walls, and enough greenery to make you forget you’re in a city centre. The menu is comfort-heavy and crowd-pleasing—think pies, burgers, loaded nachos, and potato wedges that are actually crispy. It’s laid-back and friendly, with no pressure to dress up unless you’re feeling spicy. Ideal for group lunches, sunny-day beers, or escaping the York tourist chaos with chips and cider in hand.

5. Plonkers Wine Bar – Riverside Chill with a Cheeky Name

Plonkers has been quietly smashing the riverside drinking-and-dining game since the 80s, and honestly? It still slaps. Perched right by the River Ouse, it’s got that rare combo of views, vibe, and value. The outdoor terrace is compact but mighty—grab a spot, order something fizzy, and watch the world go by with smug satisfaction. The menu rocks: burgers, hanging kebab, sandwiches, plus sharing platters that do exactly what they say on the tin. Staff are friendly, prices won’t make you sweat, and the wine list is… well, appropriately extensive for somewhere called Plonkers. Come for the location, stay for the easy charm.