York is known for its beautiful eateries, but this might be the pick of the bunch. The hotel is just a five minute walk from the historic city walls and yet its doors spill out into a surprisingly tranquil street, tucked away from the hustle and bustle you expect in such a central location.
We’ve been desperate for a table ever since the 2019 refurbishment, and this month Your Local Link’s Mim and her daughter were lucky enough to book in for their Sunday Lunch.
Having lived in York for 20 years, when I look for places to have a Sunday Lunch hotels are not always the first thing that pops to mind. Fortunately this week that choice was made for me — I had the privilege of going to the Hotel du Vin where I was delighted to learn that their delicious dining doesn’t just cater to guests but is open to residents too.
Pulling up to the spacious car park, you are immediately blown away by the hotel grounds and can see why this Georgian Grade 2 listed building would be an ideal choice for special celebrations and weddings.
On entering the beautifully decorated restaurant we were greeted by their lovely staff who enlightened us with their vast knowledge of the menu. They really can’t help you enough, even starting off by making sure water was on the table. It isn’t long however before they put their expert knowledge to good use by guiding you towards the stronger stuff. I couldn’t resist the Sunset Serenade cocktail. There is also a lovely choice of wines that you can pair up with whatever food selection you choose from.
We went for a traditional 3 course Sunday Lunch, but this wasn’t compulsory even though it was Sunday, you can still pick from their their regular main menu. The starter is done as a delicious French Market Table (another name for a posh buffet), it includes a choice between prawns, salmon, soups, salads and beautifully baked fresh bread. The choices were elegantly displayed and tasted so good that we almost forgot we were there for a full three course meal and not just the Market Table. If you order one yourself be sure to be mindful not to fill up too much.
Naturally both myself and my daughter Molly went all out and opted for the beef Sunday dinner. We had zero regrets as the beef was cooked to perfection. I am actually prepared to say that it’s the best beef I have ever tasted on a Sunday Lunch, which I’m sure you’ll appreciate is a huge thing to admit, particularly at a French restaurant. The beef may have been the main event but I must mention the Yorkshire puddings which were simply magnificent and were accompanied by a lovely selection of vegetables and gravy.
The delicious surprises didn’t end there as I discovered my favourite ever dessert of crème brulee on the menu, they must have known I was coming. It made my day seeing this as a choice and it didn’t disappoint with an amazing crusty top and such a plentiful portion that I only just managed to finish it.
Everything was faultless — you get such a high level of service, from fantastically cooked food to attentive staff. It really was the perfect Sunday and the price for 2 course of £29.95 and 3 courses for £34.95 makes it worth every penny. If you do book you’ll probably see me there again next week.
Hotel Du Vin is located at 89, The Mount, York.
To book a table call to speak to one of the team today on 01904 405260.
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