If you go down to the woods today you’re sure of a big surprise. For everyone that’s ever
been there will find the rejuvenating nature and calm serenity of this urban woodland right in
the heart of York city centre. Only a few steps away from the bustling streets of Shambles
and Stonegate, you’ll be transported to the wild by the relaxed surroundings and feel-good
foliage of Forage.
This Little Stonegate neighbourhood restaurant and bar arrived in 2021 and has brought the
taste of the outside in. Aptly named, the food and drink at Forage showcases the best locally
sourced and – of course – foraged ingredients. These are transformed into exciting seasonal
menus which are full of flavours and freshness.
The expert hands picking the produce and serving up the treats at Forage are experienced
York favourites; the bar is run by talented mixologist Callum Houston, who opened this place
to showcase the abundance of Yorkshire ingredients in inventive and sustainable creations.
Callum already has a strong background in eco-conscious drinks-making, with a passion for
food and drink that led him to train as a mixologist and subsequently set up local events and
distillery businesses Yorkshire Bartender and The Yorkshire Explorer respectively.
The high quality, low waste ethos of those businesses are extended even further through the
forward-thinking positivity of Forage. Here, you’ll drink to Yorkshire rhubarb and seasonal
truffles, to handpicked raspberries and homegrown mint. All these things and more are
mixed with rums and gins and vodkas and whiskeys and turned into a unique cocktail list of
negronis, martinis, sours and spritzes that keeps your conscience clear and your tastebuds
dancing.
The Forage kitchen continues the theme of natural, ethical excellence by showcasing nearby
produce in delicious distinctive creations. The result is a menu of local plates of food
enhanced by faraway flavours and inspired combinations.
You can snack and share on nibbles, indulge in fire-cooked specialities, or feast on farm and
forest spreads. There are flamed sea breams and spiced lamb chops, roasted monkfish and
grilled hispi cabbage. World influences are welcome too, adding harissas, tahinis, tzatzikis
and misos. All confirming that these global delights can be made right here in York with an
abundance of ingredients from our immediate surroundings.
With Forage, Callum has created an immersive piece of nature in the centre of York.
Whether you’re here for a simple bite, an indulgent feast, a relaxed drink or a late night
social, they’ve got you; today’s the day to choose to go to Forage.
Photos: Forage
