Last month, an invitation to the northern flagship store of Carluccio’s came my way.  Located on the premises of the legendary Terry’s chocolate shop and café on St Helen’s Square in York city centre, it is the largest and ‘most beautiful’ Carluccio’s restaurant to date.

Having already written about the Ilkley restaurant (purely because it happens to be our home town), I was inclined to turn down, however given the historical building that happens to be involved – accepted.

As part of the new site and exclusive to York, Carlucci’s have launched Terry’s Bar a new Italian cocktail and wine bar, it has undergone a detailed and meticulous refurbishment!  Sat supping our gin, we exchanged the thought that this doesn’t feel like a Carluccio’s… or indeed the UK for that matter – we could’ve be anywhere (and I like that!).

Recognise the dome above a la The Titanic movie?  Had we had more time, I would have taken more photos of the building because personally, that’s where the beauty lies.

Photo’s of other peoples’ food generally doesn’t interest me, so will keep these to a minimum.  Our hosts were excellent (Dominic and Sebastian are charm itself) though we had to wait half an hour for mains to be served which tarnished the evening somewhat having to promptly throw a spoonful or two of dessert down our necks before rushing out for the train.  Have fed this back to the team there who could only apologise – we’ve all been there, it happens!

Delays aside, will we return?  Absolutely (I have a thing for their paté)!  Most of you will know the Carluccio’s vibe so if you’re ever in York, would recommend a visit to this stunning building – if only for a G&T or two!

~O~