Roots is the bright new star from the team behind the critically acclaimed Michelin-starred The Black Swan in Oldstead, which was also crowned Trip Advisor's "Best Restaurant in The World" by its diners in 2017. Chef Tommy Banks and his family, together with restaurateur Matt Lockwood have take over the premises that formerly occupied The Bay Horse in Marygate, York. A lovely Tudor-style building, it's located a short stroll from the River Ouse, and runs along the idyllic haven of Museum Gardens.

Inside the interiors have been created by the Banks family with a relaxed vibe and a contemporary edge, whilst retaining some of the original features such as the Victorian fireplace at the entrance and the large stained glass window that leads to the upstairs bar and private dining room. A light and airy, high ceilinged room, with walls decorated with botanical drawings, the bespoke pale oak tables with root like twisted metal legs, were made in the workshops at Oldstead farm.

Tommy has created a three-season menu for the year, kicking off with The Preserving Menu which will run from October to December, The Hunger Gap January to May and Time of Abundance will feature from June to September. Guests will be able to choose a series of sharing plates with ingredients carefully sourced or foraged from their own farm, or there's also the option of the Roots Feast menu, where you leave it up to the kitchen. Some of the dishes you might be tempted by include smoked eel doughnuts, sour pea falafel with pork fat and carrots, cured trout and Oldstead piccalilli and finishing on a sweet note with Mary Banks' apple cake, Oldstead honey and creme fraiche.

The first-rate wine list has been created by James Banks, who champions small producers and lesser known regions and has been assembled by grape varieties and flavours. There's also a snazzy cocktail menu using ingredients from Oldstead to complement the current menu such as Master of the Woods and Spiced Rum Sour, as well as local beers.

Roots York is also featured in: Hardens

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British

Tommy Banks

Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm Wed-Mon
Dinner: 5.30 - 8.30pm Wed-Mon

Visa, Master Card

• Private dining room
• Private parties
• 50 covers