La Vecchia Scuola

You'll squeeze past other diners to reach your table in this narrow Low Petergate townhouse, but that's half the charm. The kitchen takes its Italian credentials seriously – fresh pasta made daily, proper San Marzano tomatoes, and antipasti that's clearly been assembled with care rather than pulled from a jar. The dining room feels authentically cramped in the best possible way, with exposed beams and that particular medieval York atmosphere you can't fake. Service moves at a civilised pace, which suits the setting perfectly. The wine list leans heavily Italian, as it should, and they're generous with portions. It's the sort of place that makes you forget you're on one of York's busiest tourist streets.