Chopping Block at Walmgate Ale House in York

Oh, let me tell you about the Chopping Block at Walmgate Ale House – it's one of those places in York that just hits the spot for a good evening out. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the food is truly something special; we're talking contemporary French classics with a Yorkshire twist, like pan-seared scallops or a hearty Sunday roast, all served up at prices that won't leave you shocked when the bill arrives. The wine list is impressive too, and they've got a solid range of local ales downstairs in the pub, which makes it versatile whether you're popping in for a quick drink or settling in for a full meal. The staff seem genuinely friendly and attentive, adding to that relaxed, informal charm in this old 17th-century building that's got plenty of history and even a few ghost stories to boot. But, and I say this with a fair bit of honesty, it's not without its drawbacks – you'll find it's shut on Mondays and Tuesdays, which might throw a spanner in the works for spontaneous plans, and the bar area's a bit tight, so if you're with a bigger crowd or have accessibility needs, you might need to stick to the ground floor. Overall, though, it's a welcoming spot that does a cracking job of mixing high-quality grub with a down-to-earth pub feel, making it well worth a visit if you're in the area and fancy something a cut above the ordinary.