A YORK bar which set out to create a haven where friends could meet is in the running for two awards.

The Botanist, Stonegate, is vying for Business Personality and Employer of the Year. Its nomination states: “It started with a seed, an idea to create a secret garden of food and drink. A place where antiquities and trinkets hang from the walls, and resident botanists craft unusual concoctions.”

The bar serves local gins and world-famous beers and ales, including a home-brewed speciality, alongside botanical-infused cocktails, with food inspired by the deli, rotisserie and BBQ, with daily specials. Guests can also extend their cocktail or ale adventure with a masterclass, delivered by the experts. Improve your knowledge of local and world-famous beers or create delightful concoctions from our cocktail menu! Ideal for six or more people.

“Some arrive for the live music, some for the conversation; but here at The Botanist, all can enjoy a wondrous occasion.”