The ultimate guide to brunching your way through York as a student

If I’m honest, I actually think that there’s nothing better than going for brunch with your friends. Luckily for us, York has some amazing spots. Here is a comprehensive guide to brunching at York (coming from an expert if I do say so myself). From pancakes to bacon butties, this article has it all. Plus, why not take some inspo and change up your classic spot? They really do hate to see you coming every single week.

Rise

Genuinely do think I’m in Rise twice a week. It’s embarrassing when you get asked the question “Have you been here before?” and you’re sitting there like yes, just two days ago. The inside of Rise has a cute pink vibe, accompanied with the best coffee in the city. Its menu changes regularly so you know that there’s a lot of seasonal treats to choose from. It’s just had a cinnamon bun iced latte and cinnamon bun french toast on as a special (the latte was insane). Other menu highlights include the grilled cheese and the veggie roll.

If you know someone who is a fan of Rise, you can also get vouchers, straws and tote bags from the cafe on Fossgate.

Prices range from £3-£17, so there is definitely something for everyone, even if you just fancy a quick bite!

Robinsons Cafe

Robinsons is sorely underrated; the food is amazing, the decor is cozy and the playlist is perfect. Located on Bishopthorpe Road, it is a little walk away. Why not turn it into a nice morning stroll with your flatmates and do some shopping once you arrive on the outskirts of town? When it’s time for brunch, here is what I recommend: The Turkish eggs with sourdough, creamy truffle mushrooms, or the American pancake stacks. Delicious.

Robinsons also offer a range of sides which are great for sharing! You have to give the grilled halloumi a try, it’s the best I’ve ever had. In terms of drinks, this spot also has 11 different teas to try out! It’s not too pricey compared to other spots, but still genuinely worth every penny.

Partisan

Located on Micklegate, Partisan is a firm favourite for students here at York. It has 16 items to choose from (always changing) so I’m sure you’ll find something to your taste. If you are fancying an autumnal brunch, you should try its ham and cheese toastie, served with fries and perfect for if you’re currently experiencing the egg ick (we’ve all been there). Partisan also do all the classics like smoked bacon sandwiches and eggs on toast. Inside the cafe, there is also a baked goods counter – perfect for getting a snack later.

Brew and Brownie

Brew and brownie is exactly what it says on the tin. Amazing coffee and even better sweet treats. If you’ve never been before you should go for a baked treat alone. On Museum street, the cafe is really close to the Minster and super easy to get to. The menu at Brew and Brownie is influenced by the seasons and local produce, so it can change around sometimes. I can vouch that the eggs royale is great, along with their oat latte. There is sometimes a queue here, but it goes down quite fast and is worth the wait!

If you can’t help yourself when walking past the window, grab some pastries for about £4 each, or if you’re living on the bougie side of life you can get a stack of 4 pancakes for £13. Plus, Brew and Brownie Bakeshop is a separate store just a few doors down from the original Brew and Brownie!

Double Dutch Pancake House

For those of you with a sweet tooth, Double Dutch is the perfect place to brunch. It has a never ending menu filled to the brim with options (gluten free included). You can also got savoury pancakes if you don’t fancy something sugary. The build your own pancake is a menu highlight, where you can choose from a big list of toppings. From Nutella spread to tuna, you really can have anything on your pancake. This place is located right in the centre of town, perfect if you’re passing through and need something quick.

Pancakes start at £6.95 and go up to £11.25, depending on your added toppings!

Drift In

Every student and their dog loves this place. Drift In has a really cool vibe (love the surf boards) and a big range of lunch options on the menu, from paninis, to wraps, to salads, to pancakes. It feels super relaxed and is great for a midweek brunch after running a few errands in town. It’s right in the city centre and has super quick service – ideal. Here are some menu highlights: fresh smoothies, n’duja topped toast, eton mess pancakes, and a bacon, brie and chilli jam grilled sandwich. Yum.

To be fair, it’s also decently priced. Ranging from £2.95-£8.95, the food really does fill you up.

Bruberrie Cafe and Bar

Near the train station, Bruberrie serves all day breakfast, french toast and main meals. This is one to go to when you’re feeling a little more peckish as the lunch options here look amazing too. The Brekkie Burger has bacon, sausage, hash browns and egg inside, making it the perfect hangover cure. Bruberrie also do a range of light bites for a cheaper cost. Have a try of their crispy Asian chicken wings or soup of the day. The real star of the show has to be the smashed avo and salmon toast.

Food ranges from £3.95- £13.95, with the coffees here being a little more expensive. A pumpkin spiced latte comes in at £5.95!

Well there you have it, the seven best spots for brunch in York. Happy brunching and have an iced latte for me!

Related stories recommended by this writer:

•From Dusk to Zaap Thai: A York student’s guide to York Restaurant Week

•Hello, October! Here’s a guide to making the most of Autumn in York

•Seminars, sweet treats and sneaky pints: A day in the life of a third year York student