WONDERING what to do for Valentine's Day?

Here's our pick of some of the most romantic restaurants in York.

Best for dinner in an historic setting...

Many York residents don't know about The Bow Room restaurant at Grays Court, which was awarded two AA Rosettes in 2018.

York Press:

The restaurant promises top-quality produce, some of which is grown in the garden, 'ensuring the highest levels of quality and sustainability'.

The restaurant seats just 22 covers with views over a half-acre of garden overlooked by the city walls.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said: "As a diner you’ll get to experience the hotel's beautiful long galleries and charming library for pre or post dinner drinks... The Bow restaurant itself is intimate and romantic, crisp clothed and candlelit."

Best for fine wine and sharing platters...

Pairings, an independent York wine bar in Castlegate is a popular choice for couples.

York Press:

Pairings serve fine wines by the glass, local ales, cocktails and coffee alongside cheese, charcuterie, deli foods and desserts. Bookings are being taken for Valentine's Day.

York Press:

One reviewer wrote: "A great romantic visit. We really enjoyed the meats, cheese and wine pairings. Music suited the atmosphere. Memories were made."

Best for ambience...

Rustique in Castlegate is a favourite among many diners and for good reason.

Established in 2004 in the former Francois Restaurant Bistro, Rustique 'specialises in rustic French cooking in a busy, vibrant upbeat bistro atmosphere' and promises a first class dining experience.

A second restaurant is based in Lendal.

York Press:

A TripAdvisor reviewer said: "I have visited this restaurant several times and suggested we go there for a Valentine's meal, needless to say we weren't disappointed. The food is great! The setting is also lovely and romantic. I would recommend this restaurant to anybody, it really is wonderful."

Best for people watching...

It will be a second Valentine's Day in York for The Ivy, which opened in St Helen's Square at the end of 2017.

York Press:

The plush 120-cover restaurant has York-related images on the walls, including historic lithographs of landmarks such as the Minster and Micklegate Bar, a marble top bar, pendant lighting and leather banquettes.

One reviewer said: "Impeccable, personable, attentive and friendly welcome and the best service I’ve had in any restaurant ever. It’s a beautiful restaurant, gorgeous interior and both busy but really retains an intimate feel."

Best for classic York dining...

There's a queue outside Betty's for a reason.

The famous Café Tea Rooms on St Helen’s Square have been in the city since 1936 and offer an elegant dining experience with great views of St Helen's Square.

York Press:

One Trip Advisor reviewer said: "If you're looking for decadence and a very lovely, romantic setting then Betty's is perfect. The whole venue just oozes class and sophistication and is a real treat."

Best for foodies...

At the time of writing it was still possible to get a lunchtime or early dinner reservation at Roots in Marygate on Valentine's Day.

York Press:

The new York restaurant from North Yorkshire celebrity chef Tommy Banks has been celebrated by food critics and diners alike.

Food writer Giles Coren said the restaurant is "smart, modern, unpretentious and brilliant. There is nothing in London to touch this".

Best for dinner by candlelight...

Nestled in the shadow of Micklegate Bar, Delrios is known for home-cooked Italian food with a strong Sardinian influence in a lively environment.

Ever popular in York, diners enjoy candle-lit dining in the atmospheric cellar restaurant.

One TripAdvisor review said: "Delrios is just the cutest restaurant you could possibly find, it's below ground and all the little alcoves are lit by candles - perfect for a romantic meal!

York Press:

"I have never had a bad dish here and some of the specials are absolutely incredible."