Pre-Theatre Dinner York: Join Us At The Star Inn The City

As the summer season rolls around, York becomes a hub of vibrant theatrical performances, from late-night comedy shows to elaborate musicals and dramatic plays. With a jam-packed theatre show schedule at York’s two main theatres now in full swing, there’s no better way to start your evening than with a delightful pre-theatre dining experience at The Star Inn The City.

Nestled in the heart of the city, our riverside restaurant is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable evening where you’ll be treated to delicious dishes that celebrate the best of Yorkshire’s seasonal bounty.

Discover the award-winning culinary offerings that await at The Star Inn The City below…

Unveiling Our Culinary Lineup:

At The Star Inn The City we invite you to take centre stage as you embark on a tantalising gastronomic journey. Our carefully curated All Day Menu features the crème de la crème of local ingredients from Yorkshire’s very own abundant pantry, setting the stage for a dining experience that seamlessly complements the theatrics of the stage.

Opening Act: Nibbles

For the opening act, we encourage you try out our selection of delicious nibbles. Opt for a delightful Slow Cooked Yorkshire Beef Taco, adorned with Brew York Pickled Onions, Spiced Avocado, Crispy Wild Rice, and a sprinkle of Asian Seedlings. Alternatively, try our Freshly Baked Sourdough Loaf with Marmite & Onion Butter and Salted Whipped Butter. We promise you’ll either like it or love it!

Scene Stealers: Starters

The starters take the spotlight, offering a memorable performance that combines taste and texture. Let the Cured Sea Trout steal the scene with its impeccable Fennel, Orange & Endive Salad, gilded with Keta Caviar and dressed in a Garden Herb & Pink Peppercorn finale. Alternatively, indulge in Ilkley Cured Air Dried Ham, flawlessly paired with English Burrata, Pickled Melon, and a basil-infused crescendo.

Main Attractions: Mains

Our mains steal the show, showcasing the true stars of the Yorkshire culinary scene. Prepare for a grand performance with the Chargrilled 10oz Salt Aged Sirloin Steak, served with a Little Beer Pickled Onion & Yorkshire Blue Salad and accompanied by crispy Skinny Fries. Or let the Yorkshire Lamb Loin take centre stage, featuring a delectable ensemble of Apricot & Lamb Shoulder Black Pudding, Smoked Aubergine and Mrs Bell’s Fettle, ably supported by tasty Roasted Pine Nuts.

Grand Finale: Desserts

No culinary performance is complete without a grand finale, and our desserts deliver a truly unforgettable curtain call. Indulge in the Pistachio & Yorkshire Rapeseed Cake, featuring a harmonious duet of Whipped White Chocolate, tangy Lemon Curd, and a vibrant ensemble of Summer Berries. Or let the Strawberries & Cream Choux Bun take a bow, with its delectable Sheep’s Milk & Strawberry Ripple Chiboust, Pimm’s Jelly, and a whimsical Strawberry Sherbet Sorbet.

Scene-Saving Snacks:

For those moments when time is of the essence and the full Star Inn The City experience is not in the script, our Snacks of Substance offer a perfect and satisfying alternative. These tasty treats are designed to save the day, delivering a burst of flavour and satisfying hunger pangs before you make your way to the theatre. Sink your teeth into a Chargrilled Bavarian Style Sausage, nestled in a soft Brioche Bun, or opt for the vegan sausage alternative for a plant-based delight.

Ensemble Dining: Perfect for Groups

If you’re planning a theatre outing with a group, why not make it an unforgettable experience by booking a table at The Star Inn The City? Our York city centre restaurant offers a special seasonal group menu that allows you and your companions to enjoy award-winning food coupled with unrivalled Yorkshire hospitality. Carefully selected starters, mains, and desserts await, showcasing the finest summer culinary creations.

Highlights of our seasonal group menu include dishes like Chianti Braised Ox Cheek, tenderly prepared and served atop a bed of Cheshire Saffron Risotto. Accompanied by vibrant Sprouting Broccoli, Aged Parmesan Crackling, and a Garden Herb Dressing, this main course is a true showstopper. To add a touch of glamour to your theatre night, our group menu also includes a glass of fizz upon arrival, ensuring an extra dose of sparkle and celebration for your special evening.

Sip and Savour: Drinks at The Star Inn The City

At The Star Inn The City, we believe that every great performance deserves a toast, and our carefully crafted drink selection is here to raise your spirits. Immerse yourself in a world of libations as we present an extensive array of options that will complement your dining experience and add an extra layer of sophistication to your evening.

We offer a meticulously selected collection of wines, showcasing both local and international varieties. Each wine is thoughtfully paired with our dishes, elevating your culinary experience to new heights. Our expertly crafted cocktails, bursting with creativity and unique flavours, invite you to explore a symphony of summer tastes and presentation.

For those seeking a drop of local charm, our selection of local ales captures the essence of Yorkshire’s brewing heritage, while our premium spirits provide a touch of elegance and refinement. And, of course, no celebration is complete without the effervescence of champagne, allowing you to raise a glass and toast to an unforgettable night.

To further enhance your experience with us, we invite you to enjoy our drinks and delectable cuisine on our idyllic outdoor terrace, where you can bask in the scenic riverside views. Let the gentle breeze and picturesque setting add a touch of magic to your evening.

Theatre Events & Performances This Summer

If you’re eager to enjoy a gripping drama, side-splitting comedy, or enchanting musical, there’s plenty of events on at both York Theatre Royal and The Grand Opera House this summer. Please refer to the table below for a list of upcoming performances in July and August.

However, please note that event ticketing availability may vary so it’s worth visiting each theatre’s website for the latest updates.

Once you’ve secured your tickets be sure to book your table at The Star Inn The City well in advance to avoid disappointment. Visit our reservations page or contact us on 01904 619208 for group booking enquiries.