This cafe came across as honestly a bit of a family side huddle than a dedicated cafe, and would have easily been missed if we hadn’t followed google maps as there wasn’t really any clear signage to begin with, even outside of the cafe. It’s very small and if it’s a cold day you’ll very likely be restricted to outside than inside, as the inside space could probably fit about 6 people if you really pack each table.
Food was relatively expensive for what it was, as the dish that my partner and I both had was more of a starter despite having been priced and described as a main lunch option. Additionally, the cocktails were AWFUL for £8.50! Do NOT under any circumstance get a cocktail here as it was probably the worst drink I had in my life! We got about three cocktails between us and we left all three! I cannot stress enough if you like cocktails go somewhere else because it was like someone who didn’t know what alcohol was had made it😵💫
However the ice cream was great, and probably some of the best icecream I had ever had. Although it did take a long time to get things as when I had finished my icecream my partner still hadn’t received his!
The younger servers were fairly nice and receptive, but the the middle aged woman who gave us our cocktails seemed unpleasant and as though we were a nuisance for even coming to her and her families cafe, which was a bit odd seeming as we had just spent a fair amount at their business with two non alcoholic drinks, three cocktails, two mains and two double...
Read moreMy experience with Perky Peacock has usually been excellent, however, when my wife and I went to York in August, we thought we would visit again. There was an elderly gentleman sitting outside whom we had not seen before. We were early but he opened up the shop to serve us. We ordered two small flat white coffees and two pains aux chocolates, the latter being cold (and probably from a packet), and the total came to just under £20. I don't know whether the Perky Peacock has changed hands since we were last there for the Jórvík Viking Festival in February, or whether we just picked a bad time and all the staff were on holiday and so left someone's dad in charge who doesn't know how to heat food or charge realistic prices, but it's not looking good. It's a shame that this was such an out-of-character poor experience, as every other time we've been there has been wonderful. While hesitant to return, I'll take out a new mortgage for next time I visit, just in case, but if it's a repeat of this same experience, I think this café is done.
Service was friendly, atmosphere in the Perky Peacock and its 'dungeon' was great as always, but paying premium prices for a cold pastry and basic small coffee by someone who had no idea what he was doing wasn't my idea of...
Read moreThis unique little café is hidden away in a medieval toll tower below Lendal Bridge. Could easily have walked by without noticing it, but happily a sign directed me down a flight of steps (with a handrail) to the riverbank, and then another flight led me up into the café (there's no wheelchair access). There are a few tables outside, and also some in the haunted dungeon downstairs! The café's interior, with its stunning timbered ceiling, is small and felt like a cosy living room with comfy old chairs and sofa draped with cushions and throws, Tiffany lamps, and knick-knacks of all kinds. The two young women behind the bar were super friendly, welcoming and chatty, and took a genuine interest in hearing where I was from, and how I was spending my time in York. There's a free water dispenser. They do sandwiches and light bites here as well as cakes and pastries. Great selection of teas and coffees, as well as alcoholic drinks. I had a large slice of caramel cake and a mocha, and they were both delicious! No toilets here, but there are some a few minutes walk away at the railway station. Dog friendly and quiet, this is a lovely little place to relax and get away from it all, just a stone's throw from the...
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