Thanks to our epic countryside, rolling hills and a huge dose of creativity, North Yorkshire is experiencing something of a gastronomic boom right now. If you are planning a party or a family get-together and you want to showcase some of the best local foods then we have a little black book of talented chefs and producers that we are happy to share. Or perhaps you want to make your own epicurean tour of the various foodie experiences that North Yorkshire has to offer. Well, we can help you with that too…
Farm-to-table
We have some brilliant neighbours here at Grassfield Hall. From farmers fuelled by a passion to grow the best produce, and artisan producers creating local cheeses, breads, and wines, we could help you to create a delicious feast straight from the farm to the table.
Handpicking the produce and talking to the people who grow it, is a sure-fire way to enjoy one of the best dining experiences in Yorkshire. We can guide you to the finest producers, talk you through the seasonality of your produce, and help you to choose some gorgeous menus so you can sit back and enjoy the freshest tastes of the region.
Farmers’ markets
Exploring the local farmers’ markets can give you a really good sense of a place and its producers. Plus, they are the perfect way to discover something new. Just down the road in Harrogate, there is a weekly market every Thursday. Or you could head further afield to the Hovingham Village Market (a previous winner of the Yorkshire Life Farmers’ Market of the Year) which takes place on the first Saturday of every month. In the town of Malton, Yorkshire’s “food capital”, the food market takes place on the second Saturday of the month, and it is also well worth a visit.
Fill up your shopping baskets and prepare your own feast in our kitchen or let us find you a chef to cook it all for you.
Gastro pubs
North Yorkshire has more than its fair share of gastro pubs and no foodie holiday in the UK can be complete without a visit to one. Some, like the Pipe and Glass, have a Michelin star to their name. Others, like The Fat Badger in Harrogate are perfect for hearty Sunday roasts. Some are a short drive away, while others can be reached on foot, like wonderful The Sportsmans Arms, just a lovely short hike from our gates.
Independent restaurants
The bustling town of Harrogate is a short drive away and it has a host of independent restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Let us book you a table at the wine bar William and Victoria, where their classic French inspired dishes are delicious. Cardamom Black is an Asian fusion restaurant in an old theatre, so you can expect plenty of glamour and style. And the café at Fodder is a gorgeous spot for lunch. There are plenty of other options too, just ask and we can direct you.
Fine dining
A fine dining experience is a great way to mark a special occasion (or any occasion for that matter). Horto is a modern British restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the kitchen garden. The dishes are like delicious works of art, and the focus is on seasonal, ethically produced food. Then there’s one Michelin-starred The Angel at Hetton. Chef and owner Michael Wignall creates beautiful, delicate dishes inspired by the region’s produce. Paradise Café at the nearby Daleside Nurseries is a garden centre eatery like no other, and the Black Swan at Oldstead has both the traditional Michelin star, as well as a Michelin green star for their commitment to sustainability. There are plenty of other fine dining options to choose from.
Cooking classes and workshops
Sometimes the joy of food lies in the preparation, and if you would like to hone your culinary skills and prepare a feast for your loved ones then let us arrange a one-to-one or group class in our kitchen. Tell us the skills you want to learn, or your ideal dish and flavours and we will find you your perfect local teacher.
Private dining
Hiring your own private chef to create the menu of your dreams can be the cherry on top of a gorgeous occasion. Let us know what kind of food you love to eat and we will pair you up with a talented chef who will help you to handpick the perfect menu for you and your guests. Plus, they will do the clearing up too!
For more information about Grassfield Hall, or for help to arrange a holiday full of perfect Yorkshire dining experiences, please get in touch.