AN INDEPENDENT restaurant guide has named Middlethorpe Hall and The Blue Bicycle as York's two most flavoursome restaurants.

Harden's Top UK Restaurants 2001 is based on the views of 15,000 volunteer reporters across the UK who submitted 125,000 reports on all types of eateries from haute cuisine to local bistros, pubs and curry houses.

Both York restaurants have been awarded the *A rating for very good food and atmosphere.

The Blue Bicycle, in Fossgate, is described as a "lovely relaxed bistro which is by far and away York's leader."

Middlethorpe Hall offers a "heavenly experience, excellent food and wine and a very attentive service."

Other York restaurants praised in the guide include Bettys, deemed to be "an essential part of a day out in York", Caf Concerto, recommended as "the perfect casual eating place" and Meltons, whose moderately-priced wines were highlighted.