But where to go? If you are looking forward to eating out again, here's some inspiration for you. Best advice is to book ahead to secure your table.

And if you have a favourite place to eat in York - let us know. You can send your recommendations directly to us via the Send Now button at the end of the article.

Sotano

Little Stonegate

Sotano in York

Described as "a civilised drinking den serving craft and world beers, wines, rare spirits, cocktails, charcuterie and tapas" - you can indulge to your heart (and belly's) content in its heated, under cover outside dining area.

Menu highlights: Got to be the sharing boards, chose from meat, cheese, or a mix of both, priced at £7.50 for one person up to £24.50 for four.

More at: sotano.co.uk

Forest at Galtres Lodge

Low Petergate, York

Forest - the secret garden dining courtyard

Take shelter whatever the weather in its covered and heated 'secret garden' courtyard. Forest menus are a showcase for local produce including fish from Shambles Market.

Menu highlights: Whole Yorkshire Hog - a starter of crispy slow-cooked cider pork cake, black pudding, belly pork with apple cinnamon compote and light and crispy pork crackling! For dessert, it has to be the Black “Forest” Eaton Mess.

More at: galtreslodge.uk/food-and-drink.html

Ate O'clock

High Ousegate, York

Ate O'clock in High Ousegate, York

Tucked away down an alleyway, here is a real hideaway place to eat. Offers a covered courtyard for diners. Food is described as a "modern twist on traditional dishes with many personal touches".

Menu highlights: Choose from an a la carte menu (meat lovers might want to splash out on the 16oz Chateaubriand steak) and there is a good value set menu offering two courses for £16.95 or three courses for £19.95. A children's menu is also available.

More at: ateoclock.co.uk

Churchill Hotel

Bootham

Churchill Hotel's outdoor eating area

Churchill's has made the most of its large front garden, turning it into a winter wonderland with garden 'igloos' in the autumn/winter. For spring, the igloos have been packed away and parasol covers are back so you can still eat and drink with cover.

Menu highlights: The place to go for wood-fired pizzas straight from the oven.

More at: churchillhotel.com

Partisan,

Micklegate

Food at Partisan

This popular local cafe and restaurant will have a 15 metre marquee and a few heaters in its courtyard - and will be serving its classic menu favourites.

More at: partisanuk.com

What are the rules?

Under the easing of lockdown restrictions announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, pubs and restaurants can re-open outdoor seating areas such as beer gardens from Monday, April 12.

Customers will be able to enjoy food or just a drink while sitting outdoors, in groups of up to six from different households. Bigger groups will be able to sit together if they are from no more than two households.

Where are the best places to eat in York with an outdoor space? Tell us now and we will share your recommendations with readers. Send photos too!