I had the pleasure of visiting Cut and Crafts located on York St in St Sampson’s Square for an anniversary celebration meal.
The restaurant is easily noticeable with its stunning evening lights that illuminate York at night.
I highly recommend making a reservation beforehand as Cut and Crafts is one of the most popular date spots in York.
It’s worth noting that the restaurant requires your bank details when booking, and if you don’t turn up, they will charge £20 to your card.
The restaurant is well-lit and romantic, with a modern atmosphere that is perfect for a special occasion like an anniversary. The smart dress code, which does not allow tracksuits or sliders, adds to the sophisticated ambiance and ensures that only those dressed appropriately are allowed in.
During my visit, I was particularly impressed with the central circular bar and open kitchen with a flame grill window.
These highlights added to the unique dining experience and made the celebration even more memorable.
The food at Cut and Crafts, York
We was handed our large menus, which was broken down into nibbles, starters, and mains. The menu included signature steaks, classics dishes, burgers, and salads.
Our Starter
Initially, we wanted to order fresh oysters as our starter, but unfortunately, they had run out of them, as well as mussels.
For starters, my partner ordered the Homemade Meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce with Parmesan and toasted sourdough, while I opted for the Spiced Lamb croquettes with pea veloute and chilli dressing.
I found the meatballs to taste like those from Ikea, which my partner enjoyed.
However, my Lamb croquettes were outstanding with just the right amount of spice, and it was a unique dish that I hadn’t seen on a menu before.
Our Main
For our mains, we decided to go for their signature steaks.
We both chose the signature flat iron steak served with waffle fries with cheese sauce and pulled beef.
We also chose two different sauces to go with our steaks, with my partner choosing peppercorn, and I chose spicy paprikash.
The steak was one of the best I’ve ever tasted, with zero fat and an excellent cut. While the fries were small, they had a fantastic taste.
The peppercorn sauce was rich and creamy, but unfortunately, my spicy paprikash sauce wasn’t spicy at all and tasted like a tomato sauce, which was a bit of a letdown.
Beverages Selection at Cut and Crafts, York
I couldn’t help but notice the stunning design and lighting at the Cut and Craft bar.
It was a shame that we couldn’t order at the bar and that it was all table service, as I would have loved to get a closer look.
The drinks menu had a wide selection of alcoholic and soft drinks, but I noticed that it didn’t advertise any alcohol-free beers or ciders, which I normally prefer.
Nevertheless, we ordered a pint of Corona and a pint of Rekorderlig Strawberry and Lime.
We were also asked if we’d like water for the table, which was a nice touch. After starters, the waiter asked if we’d like any more drinks, and I ordered another pint, while my partner opted for a Coca-Cola.
Our Service at Cut and Crafts, York
I was highly impressed with the intensive and friendly staff at Cut and Crafts.
From the moment we entered, the manager was amazing, greeting everyone who came in and training another member of staff to host, which was great to see.
However, I would recommend that they let people know of what they’ve run out of before seating them, to avoid any confusion.
There were plenty of staff, and we were shortly introduced to our waitress for the evening, Eleanor, who was a hard-working member of the team.
She was always checking to see if we needed anything, which was great.
However, I do have one major complaint about the service. We were seated in front of the kitchen, where all the staff seemed to cluster when they had nothing to do. They were shouting, playing around with tea towels, and completely distracting us from what was meant to be a romantic meal.
For a high-class restaurant like Cut and Crafts, some staff need to be informed of this and ensure that they maintain a professional and quiet environment.
Cut and Crafts, York Ambiance
I found the ambiance at Cut and Crafts to be relaxing and friendly, making it the perfect spot for a romantic night.
The dim lights and array of fairy lights created a relaxed atmosphere in the restaurant, especially in the evening.
The music was low but noticeable over the voices throughout the restaurant, allowing us to have a conversation.
I thought the layout of the restaurant was well thought out, with the center circle bar surrounded by tables, booths and the raised areas in each corner of the restaurant.
It accommodated both small and large parties, making it perfect for any occasion.
What stood out to me were the flower decor, the stunning large circular bar, and the open flame kitchen, which added to the overall ambiance and unique dining experience.
Cut and Crafts, York Location
Cut and Crafts is located in St Sampson’s Square, next door to Browns Department Store and Cafe. It’s unmissable with it’s large sign and branded windows.
As Cut and Craft is based in the center of York the closest bus stop is a 10 mins walk away on either Museum street or The Stonebow.
There is 2 near by car parks within walking distance to Cut and Crafts:
- Q-Parking Shambles – is a large car, well lit and maintained car park which is open 24hours. With a 15min walk from Cut and Craft. With average rate of £2.90 per hour. The great thing about Q-Parking your able to pre-book and pay for your space via the app.
Pre-book to plan ahead for a space in a safe, secure car park in the city centre
- Coppergate Car Park – is also a large car park located a 15 walk away from Cut and Crafts. With an average rate of £3.10 per hour. But unfortunately it closes at 7pm.
There are several nearby hotels that is convenient for those looking for a late night dinning experience at Cut and Crafts York:
- Hocus Pocus Tiny Hotel – Is a magical themed hotel closest to Cut and craft located within a 5 minute walk from the restaurant.
- Impossible Motel – Is a modern hotel connected to the Impossible restaurant and cocktail bar with a 5 minute walk from the restaurant.
- Judge’s Lodging – is another highly rated option that is located just a short distance from the restaurant.
Value
Cut and Crafts is the perfect destination for those seeking a romantic bar and grill experience.
Their menu boasts a variety of options, all of which are served at affordable prices without compromising on quality.
During our recent visit for two, we enjoyed two delicious starters, two signature flat iron steaks, waffle top fries, a selection of sauces, and four drinks for a total of £93.40, which included an £11.68 service charge.
I found the price to be reasonable and well worth it for the exceptional food and service we received.
Menus and prices
Preview the menus in advance to ensure you know exactly what to expect.
Info & Opening Times
- Open Monday – Sunday 11am – midnight
- Food served till 10pm
- Contact number: 01904 593500
- Address: 8 St Sampsons Square, York YO1 8RN
- Book a table at Cut and Craft York
FAQ
Does Cut and Crafts York Allow Children?
Cut and Crafts allow children under 10 in the restaurant between 11am – 5pm. Children over the age of 10 should be fine as long as they are well behaved and also follow the dress code.
Do You Have To Book A Table?
Cut and Crafts do allow walk-ins but if there isn’t any tables available there is a waiting area where your able to have a drink and wait. Bookings are recommended as they do get very busy.
Do They Have a Gluten-Free menu?
Yes, Cut and Crafts offer a gluten-free menu. Just ask for one upon arrival.
What is Cut and Crafts Dress Code?
Cut and Crafts operate a smart but casual dress code. They do not allow tracksuits, tank tops, flip flops or hats.
Conclusion
My visit to Cut and Crafts on out anniversary was a delightful experience. The quality of the food was exceptional, and the romantic and relaxing atmosphere added to the ambiance.
However, some of the staff’s immaturity and playing around with tea towels near the kitchen pass was a letdown. Our waitress Eleanor was a delight.
Despite this, I would still rate my overall experience a 4.2 out of 5, and I would recommend Cut and Crafts for a lovely dining experience.
Where to go after your perfect meal? Why not look at my top 6 classic pubs to visit in York?
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