Best autumnal cafes in York
Explore our favourite cafes in York, whether you’re a local looking for a cafe to cosy up in with a book and a coffee this autumn, or visiting this historic city for a long weekend.
York is home to some fantastic independent cafes and coffee spots, all with unique charm, offering delicious light bites and pastries.
Robinsons
First up we have Robinsons, located on the popular foodie lovers street, Bishopthorpe Road. Serving up barista made coffee, homemade cakes and fresh brunch dishes each morning, this spot is bustling with regulars and tourists all week long.
Whether you’re delving into banana caramel pancakes or opting for a the spiced mexican eggs with an iced latte – this has to make our list as one of the best cafes in York.
They don’t take table bookings, so be prepared for a wait on the weekends!
Where? 7 Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 1NA
North South
North South is just a short walk from York Minster and York Theatre Royal, this cafe is nestled on Bootham, serving tasty sandwiches and seasonal sharing boards.
They do great coffees, iced teas and matcha, while come the evening you can enjoy a glass of red or one of their craft beers.
It’s a small site, perfect for a cosy catch up.
Where? 25 Bootham, York YO30 7BW
Partisan
We couldn’t write this guide without including Partisan. A cafe for the true foodies amongst us, Partisan has some of the best barista made coffee and seriously good hot chocolates.
Peer in their window to see delicate cakes, fresh bread and pastries to choose from – there’s always something new to try. If you’re after something bigger, you can pick from their lunch and brunching menus.
Quirky interiors and artwork on display, there’s nowhere quite like this spot.
Where? 112 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX
Brew and Brownie
Up next we have Brew and Brownie – which sits right in the centre of York. Using quality, locally sourced ingredients, there’s a reason people keep flocking back to this York cafe for more.
Go for a hot drink and fluffy American style pancakes. If you’re just swinging by, pop into their Bake House next door for a quick takeaway coffee and cake.
Where? 5 Museum St, York YO1 7DT
The Fossgate Social
Known for shaking up great cocktails and pouring a quality craft pint, Fossgate Social has a tiny beergarden we love. However, they also whip up a great cappuccino and toastie in the daytime.
This spot is quieter in the day, so pop by with a book and get cosy, or enjoy your coffee outside on the cobbled street.
Where? 54-56 Fossgate, YO1 9TF
Mannettis
This tiny Italian cafe and coffee shops is next on our list of the best cafes in York. There’s great seasonal salads, cakes and sandwiches – although we swing by just for their banana bread.
Warmed and topped with greek yogurt and a sweet berry compote, there’s arguably few better ways to start your morning. Take a look at their deli produce while you’re there.
Where? 5 Lendal, York YO1 8AQ
Kiosk Cafe
Kiosk sits in a gorgeous building on Fossgate, and this cafe is a truely underrated gem in York. There’s delicious food, and a lovely community feel that’s hard to beat.
Go for a proper coffee – we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Where? 41 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF
Mannion and Co
Mannion and Co is a firm favourite, with one site in Helmsley and another in York City Centre. Using quality produce in their seasonal lunch dishes and breakfast plates, their freshly baked artisan bread is hard to beat.
Their menus change frequently, and you can often spot a irresistible option on the specials board.
They don’t take reservations, so just turn up!
Where? 1 Blake St, York YO1 8QJ
Rise
Known for their insta-worthy interiors, brunch stables and creative drinks, Rise is a much loved cafe in York.
Whether it’s an almond croissant banana bread, raspberry french toast of a hot honey chicken sandwich to munch on – Rise will have your sweet or savoury cravings satisfied.
Or, if you just fancy an iced coffee or blueberry matcha to accompany your Saturday shopping trip, they also do take out drinks.
Where? 44 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF
Drift In
The ideal dog-friendly cafe spot in York, Drift In has a casual, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of tasty lunch dishes. Their seasonal specials are always good, and their smoothies will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the day!
Their foodie offerings are varied from breakfast until lunchtime, it’s the perfect cafe if you’re out and about shopping in the city.
Where? 1-3 Nessgate, York YO1 9NP
SOPHiE
Located by the river Ouse, Sophie’s is a real gem. From a mid morning coffee and cake, to fresh spritzes and cocktails come the evening- you’ll love the friendly feel of this York cafe.
Independently run, Sophie’s now has two locations at Lendal Bridge and Skeldergate Bridge – both of which have familiar, great service.
Go for a hot soup and toastie and enjoy the breezy autumnal sunshine in their outdoor area, or cosy up with a hazelnut latte inside.
Where? East Lodge, Lendal Bridge, York YO1 7DP
Visiting this historic city for a long weekend? Check out our favourite boutique hotels in York for the occasion.
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Written by
12/09/2025