Al Fresco Dining in York
Escape the bustle of the city and soak up the sunshine at The Star Inn The City’s stunning outdoor terrace. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the River Ouse, our spacious terrace offers a serene riverside setting in the heart of historic York.
Enjoy the gentle flow of the river, watch boats glide by, and take in the lush greenery of the surrounding Museum Gardens. This idyllic spot, nestled within the city yet feeling worlds away, makes our terrace the premier destination for al fresco dining in York.
With comfortable seating and a picturesque backdrop, it’s the perfect place to savour a meal at any time of day. Whether you’re joining us for a leisurely weekend breakfast, a relaxed lunch, or a romantic dinner at twilight, experience the best of outdoor dining in one of York’s most charming locations.
Al Fresco Breakfast York
Start your day in style with breakfast on our terrace, available Friday to Sunday (last orders at 11:00). Indulge in our hearty Full Yorkshire, a robust plate that celebrates the best of local produce. For those with a sweet tooth, our Yorkshire Mess Pancakes offer a delightful twist on a classic brekkie favourite. If you prefer a lighter start, our Baker’s Basket presents an array of freshly baked pastries to savour as you watch the city come to life. Or warm up with a bowl of our creamy porridge, the perfect comfort food to enjoy in the open air. Whether you’re fuelling up for a day of exploration or simply relishing a lazy weekend morning, our breakfast menu has something to satisfy every craving.
A La Carte Excellence: Michelin-Starred Inspiration
Available throughout the day, our A La Carte menu is a culinary journey through Yorkshire’s finest seasonal ingredients. Expertly crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Patron Andrew Pern and our talented kitchen team, this menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring that each dish captures the essence of Yorkshire’s current bounty.
From innovative starters to hearty mains and divine desserts, our A La Carte offerings burst with flavours that evoke the spirit of Yorkshire’s diverse landscape. Whether you’re craving seafood fresh from the coast, game from local estates, or vegetarian dishes that celebrate the region’s produce, our menu caters to all palates and dietary requirements.
The Perfect Setting for Sunday Lunch
On Sundays, treat yourself to one of the country’s finest Sunday lunches right here on our terrace. Served from 12-4pm, our Sunday offering has earned its reputation as one of the best in the land. The star of the show is our special Sunday Roast, complete with all the trimmings – think crispy Yorkshire puddings, perfectly roasted potatoes, and a medley of seasonal vegetables, all bathed in rich, flavourful gravy. But that’s not all – our Sunday menu also features a selection of fresh, delicious, and seasonal starters, mains, and desserts for those looking to explore beyond the traditional roast. Enjoy this British institution al fresco, with the gentle sound of the Ouse as your backdrop
View Sample Sunday Lunch Menu
Raise a Glass on the Riverbank
Complementing our delicious food menu is a drinks list as impressive as the views. Mirroring our commitment to all things local, we offer a range of tasty, locally-brewed beers and ales, perfect for savouring on a sunny afternoon. For something a little stronger, choose from our selection of premium spirits or explore our wine list, carefully curated by our sommeliers to feature incredible bottles from both near and far. And why not toast a special occasion with a glass of exclusive bubbly, or sip on one of our seasonal cocktails while you soak up the fresh air and the scenery?
Booking Information
Open during spring, summer, and even parts of autumn (weather permitting), our charming outdoor terrace is extremely popular so if you’re planning to visit, we recommend booking well in advance.
Please note that bookings are only available for food and drink – we don’t accept reservations for drinks only. To make a reservation, you can either call us directly or visit our reservations page here.
Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you in planning your perfect outdoor dining experience in the heart of historic York!