PizzaExpress

You might roll your eyes at another PizzaExpress, but this Museum Street branch wins you over with its stunning setting in River House, a proper Georgian beauty that overlooks the Museum Gardens. The building itself is half the appeal – high ceilings, elegant windows, and that sense of dining somewhere with genuine history rather than a soulless high street unit. The terrace is the real draw when weather permits, letting you watch the world drift by along the River Ouse while working through their familiar but reliable menu. Yes, it's still the same pizzas you know, but there's something rather pleasant about eating a decent American Hot while gazing out at medieval York. The staff here seem to actually care, which isn't always a given with chains, and they handle the tourist crowds with good grace.