Earl Grey Tea Rooms, York

York on a damp Bank Holiday. The Shambles. Probably the most touristy street in a very touristy city. Afternoon tea here could well have been rubbish, but it turned out to be very good. I'm allowed to complain about tourists by the way, I was in York with the folks and my parents live there so technically that means we're locals.

Five of us shared an assortment of goodies by ordering a couple of high teas, an afternoon tea, and some extra pots of tea. Plenty of tea.

Starting off with the savouries, the sandwiches were very good. I'm not really a fan of the overly dainty afternoon tea sandwiches you usually get (no crusts, I like crusts!), and these were a more substantial affair. Generous quantities of thinly sliced ham or chunky egg mayo on thick cut brown bread.

Next up, scones and cake. The scones were light and served with plentiful clotted cream and jam. Anything served with clotted cream is inevitably going to be lovely, and these were no exception. Of the two cakes, carrot was beautifully moist and spicy but a yorkshire curd tart was the only duff note as it was very dry.

All told a most civilised way to spend an afternoon. The tea was a good strong brew as well, and some of the food being served up to the group of Oklahomans at the next table looked appetising. Our bill worked out at £6 apiece, not bad at all. Service was pleasant too. Who needs Bettys?



8/10

Earl Grey Tea Rooms
13-14 Shambles
York
YO1 7LZ

Gale Lane Fisheries, Acomb, York

I seem to have eaten fish and chips again. That's three times in the past few weeks. Must be something to do with being back in Yorkshire more often. I genuinely believe that the best fish and chips are to be found in Yorkshire. I could pontificate on what is wrong with them in various other parts of the country, but it would probably be very boring so I won't.

These fish and chips were quite good. Good sized, flaky haddock. Crisp batter. Chips with the right balance of crispiness and greasiness. Bucket loads of scraps. My only criticism is that the fish wasn't freshly fried, so had dried out a bit.

I think it was £4.60 for fish, chips and curry sauce. I didn't pay though, my Mum did. Thanks Mum! Not worth a special visit, but good if you're in the area.

I'm hoping to see more of York this year, so there may be more posts to come. I don't know it very well at all, but have recently discovered it has a number of rather enticing pubs and bars to investigate. Thanks beer bloggers!


7/10

Gale Lane Fisheries
218-220 Gale Lane
Acomb
York
YO24 3AQ