I visited Parlormade Cafe and Scone House recently and was thoroughly delighted with it. It’s on Little Shambles (a tiny offshoot of the Shambles) and set over three floors. They serve teas and coffees, naturally, but also have an incredible array of the most magnificent looking scones.
The cafe is housed in a fabulous and quirky 15th century building and is beautifully decorated. The stairs are steep and the rooms fairly small so not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
The staff were friendly and welcomed us from the main counter on the ground floor. There is no seating on the ground floor but we were invited upstairs and given menus. We were having lunch out so couldn’t sample the scones (I must return!) but ordered a cappuccino and pot of tea.
Parlormade Cafe and Scone House
My pot of tea was served in this oriental inspired teapot and with this lovely bright crockery. I was also given a small jug of milk and a larger jug of hot water. My tea was £2.50 and, once the jug of hot water was put to use, I managed to get almost four full cups of tea. I think this represents really excellent value for money, particularly given the very popular Shambles location.
The windows overlooked the Shambles Market and you can sit and watch the world go by from there. And yes, the flowers on the table are fresh.
Have a look at this marvellous collection of scones – double chocolate, date and walnut, lemon and cheese and chive. It really is a bit of a hidden gem right in the busiest and most famous street in York
if you are looking for other places to have a cup of tea or coffee in York City Centre, have a look at our suggestions for some of the best Cafes in York.
