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The Black Swan at Oldstead offers a Michelin-starred tasting menu that emphasizes local produce and sustainability. Diners appreciate the creativity and quality of the dishes, as well as the warm and knowledgeable staff.

The Black Swan at Oldstead: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem in North Yorkshire

Nestled in the picturesque village of Oldstead near York, The Black Swan at Oldstead is a captivating destination for food lovers and discerning travelers alike. Known for its innovative Michelin-starred tasting menu, this acclaimed restaurant showcases the rich bounty of North Yorkshire with a strong focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and sustainable practices. The intimate candlelit dining room, accented with Persian rugs and cozy log fires, creates an inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the artistry on each plate.

Exceptional Dining Experience and Accommodation Options

Guests at The Black Swan enjoy a carefully curated tasting menu that highlights inventive flavor combinations and meticulous presentation. Paired expertly with a selection of wines or non-alcoholic drinks, the culinary journey is memorable and sophisticated. While the restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner service, it truly shines in its evening tasting menu experience. For those wishing to extend their stay, charming rooms are available, featuring elegant touches like four-poster beds and spacious bathrooms, making it a perfect spot for special occasions such as honeymoons.

Sustainability and Local Sourcing Commitment

The Black Swan at Oldstead stands out not only for its culinary excellence but also for its dedication to sustainability. By prioritizing local ingredients and supporting nearby producers, the restaurant fosters a strong sense of community and reduces environmental impact. This commitment resonates deeply with guests who appreciate the authentic flavors and ethical approach behind each dish.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, credit cards are accepted for payment.

 Yes, free parking is available including a lot and street parking.

 The tasting menu is priced at £175 per person.

 Yes, wine pairings are available for £75 per person.

The Black Swan at Oldstead is highly regarded for its innovative tasting menu, exceptional service, and commitment to sustainability. 

Guests frequently praise the use of locally sourced ingredients and the unique dining experience that blends artistry with warmth. While some visitors note that accommodation may feel pricey and that upselling can be persistent, the overall consensus values the culinary creativity and quality of service. The restaurant's dedication to delivering a memorable meal shines through in rave reviews, especially highlighting the desserts and drink pairings as surprising delights.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the picturesque village of Oldstead, The Black Swan at Oldstead is a renowned restaurant and lodging destination that offers a unique culinary experience. Known for its innovative cuisine and a cozy atmosphere, this establishment is perfect for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining adventure in North Yorkshire. With its proximity to York, visitors can easily explore the historic city while enjoying the serene countryside.

The Black Swan at Oldstead is celebrated for its exquisite tasting menu, crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes that highlight the best of British cuisine, all served in a charming candlelit dining room adorned with Persian rugs and log fires. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine pairing option, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Innovative tasting menu featuring seasonal and local ingredients

Curated wine pairings to complement each course

Cozy atmosphere with log fires and Persian rugs

For those wishing to extend their stay, The Black Swan offers comfortable lodging options. Each room is designed to provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside. The accommodations feature modern amenities while maintaining a charming, rustic feel.

Stylishly decorated rooms with modern amenities

Proximity to local attractions and York city

Located in Oldstead, just a short drive from the historic city of York, The Black Swan is perfectly situated for those wishing to explore the rich history and culture of the area. Nearby attractions include the iconic York Minster, the medieval walls of York, and the scenic Yorkshire Dales, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure.

Close to York Minster and York's historic attractions

Ideal for exploring the North Yorkshire countryside

Innovative cuisine served in a candlelit dining room with Persian rugs and log fires, plus rooms.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzclA2V3BBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu-9h5OLIfkgR661kf0T6yBs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzclA2V3BBRRAB

Fantastic experience staying and dining at the Black Swan for part of our honeymoon. The bedroom in the adjacent building was very nice with a 4 poster bed and big bathroom. The tasting menu with drinks package was very tasty and memorable and we loved the attention to detail in the food, surroundings and service.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMFk3OVVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu-9h5OLIfkgR661kf0T6yBs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMFk3OVVnEAE

Food superb, service excellent, as you would expect from a restaurant of this calibre. It’s what you’ve paid for.
Two gripes. One, lots of upselling attempts for additional courses or different wine pairing suggestions. Felt it was inappropriate and could be intimidating.
Second, accommodation is poor value for money. Nothing special and in our cottage we could hear them setting up tables in the restaurant from 6.30am.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzMGRtYzRBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu-9h5OLIfkgR661kf0T6yBs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzMGRtYzRBRRAB

My husband and I stayed and dined at the Old Swan Oldstead last Saturday and were disappointed. The first 4 courses of the tasing menu were really good but sadly downhill afterwards.
The Monkfish and Seabass were similar dishes and quite plain.

The Monkfish was a course on both the meat and pescatarian menu and it felt like the chef had run out of ideas for a further pescatarian course when the seabass arrived also quite plain.

The two separate dishes of seabass and partridge were served with exactly the same vegetables, presented in exactly the same way. This was lazy and the priority seemed to be around making it easy to serve rather than create Michelin level dishes.

We ordered the wine pairing option for each course. The wine pairing for the pescatarian menu was lazy. For the course where my husband has partridge breast and I had seabass, we were both served the red wine, Thymiopoulos Alta Xinomavro 2021 which pairs wit Lamb, Pork, Beef, Pork, Sausage and Charcuterie. The lady who served it, whilst looking bored with regurgitating the same script, extensively described how it paired with partridge and then commented ‘oh and it pairs with seabass’ followed by a brief description. This wine does not pair with seabass and this was a lazy and poor choice, especially for a Michelin restaurant.

The height of disappointment was the last course of puree mushroom and chocolate shard – It was, as it sounds, fairly disgusting and hard to believe that any chef had tasted it before putting it on a menu. When leaving the restaurant, we noticed other diners struggling with it also!

So, all is all not a good experience and would not return or recommend it. The restaurant is not putting the effort in to providing a good dining experience – which is fine if they were charging prices that reflected the effort they were putting in , but they are not. The price is based on the publicity that Tommy Banks has and he is maybe taking their Michelin star for granted! I wish I had read this honest review before booking it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURydU1TZzVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu-9h5OLIfkgR661kf0T6yBs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURydU1TZzVBRRAB

Delicious tasting menu and wine pairing.  We had one course which wasn't to our liking but others loved it so just not for us I guess.  For me the rooms are lovely but way overpriced, but if you're wine pairing and don't live nearby your options are limited.  However, I would definitely go back for the food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dHVuZzd3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu-9h5OLIfkgR661kf0T6yBs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dHVuZzd3RRAB

Amazing restaurant. The menu and the non alcoholic pairing was wonderful.
The desserts were especially a unique discovery.

Experience Luxury Dining at The Black Swan, Oldstead, York

The Black Swan at Oldstead is a 16th-century building that has been transformed into a Michelin-starred restaurant. In 2017, it was named the world's best restaurant by TripAdvisor.

The Black Swan at Oldstead: A Historic Culinary Gem in North Yorkshire United Kingdom 

Nestled in the picturesque village of Oldstead, near the historic city of York, The Black Swan at Oldstead is more than just a restaurant—it is a living testament to centuries of English heritage combined with modern culinary excellence. This 16th-century building, steeped in rich history, has been lovingly transformed into a Michelin-starred destination renowned for its innovative cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere.

A timeline of transformation and achievement

The story of The Black Swan at Oldstead is a remarkable journey marked by ambition, family dedication, and culinary mastery. It all began in 2006 when the Banks family purchased this historic property, envisioning a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Their commitment to excellence soon bore fruit, with the restaurant earning its first Michelin Star in 2012—a significant milestone that set it apart in the competitive North Yorkshire dining scene.

A year later, in 2013, the esteemed Tommy Banks took the helm as head chef at the young age of 24. Under his visionary guidance, The Black Swan not only retained its coveted Michelin Star but also began to attract attention beyond the UK. Tommy's passion for locally sourced ingredients and inventive techniques quickly became a hallmark of the restaurant's identity.

The pinnacle of international recognition came in 2017 when TripAdvisor named The Black Swan at Oldstead the world's best restaurant. This accolade reflected not only the outstanding quality of the cuisine but also the exceptional dining experience created by the blend of the historic setting, candlelit rooms adorned with Persian rugs, and attentive service.

A unique dining experience rooted in heritage

 offers guests a rare blend of history and contemporary culinary artistry. The building's 16th-century architecture sets a charming backdrop, while the menu showcases cutting-edge dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Diners can expect an intimate atmosphere with candlelit tables, Persian rugs, and cozy log fires, enhancing each meal's sensory journey.

Key highlights of The Black Swan's history

The Banks family purchased The Black Swan at Oldstead, setting the stage for its transformation.

The restaurant earned its first Michelin Star, marking a milestone in culinary excellence.

Tommy Banks became head chef at age 24, maintaining the Michelin Star with his innovative approach.

Named the world's best restaurant by TripAdvisor, cementing its global reputation.

Whether you are a foodie seeking a top-tier dining adventure, a traveler eager to explore authentic English heritage, or a local looking for an unforgettable experience, The Black Swan at Oldstead offers a captivating blend of history, innovation, and culinary artistry. Its journey from a 16th-century building to a globally acclaimed restaurant exemplifies the power of passion and dedication to craft and community.

Rating

Dine In

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Parking Options

Payment Options

A serene gem tucked away in the heart of North Yorkshire, Oldstead offers an intimate escape into the embrace of English countryside charm. The quaint hamlet radiates a storybook elegance, where rolling hills meet lush, verdant fields, inviting nature lovers to explore the scenic trails weaving through its picturesque landscape. Among its highlights stands The Black Swan at Oldstead, a culinary haven that has garnered attention for its innovative, seasonal dishes brought to life with local ingredients. Dining here becomes an unforgettable experience as the restaurant skillfully marries rustic charm with contemporary flair. Guests can savor meticulously crafted plates while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, a setting as breathtaking as the food itself. The Black Swan provides not just a meal, but a journey into the essence of Yorkshire’s culinary landscape, where each bite tells a tale of tradition and creativity. Venture beyond the confines of this delightful establishment and you will find Oldstead’s countryside offers countless opportunities for exploration. Whether it’s discovering the historic charm of nearby York, with its ancient walls, cathedrals, and vibrant street life, or enjoying leisurely walks that ignite the senses among wildflowers and tranquil streams, adventure beckons at every corner. As dusk settles, the stars twinkle above, and the soft sounds of nature serenade the night, creating a serene backdrop for a peaceful retreat. Oldstead, with its enchanting ambiance and the allure of The Black Swan, presents an idyllic blend of culinary artistry and nature’s splendor, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and food enthusiasts alike.

The Black Swan at Oldstead

A seasonal tasting menu showcasing the best of local produce, including dishes like Crapaudine Beetroot, Scallops, Herdwick Lamb, Halibut, and Crapaudine Beetroot Cake.

Crapaudine Beetroot

Scallops

Herdwick Lamb

Halibut

Crapaudine Beetroot Cake

Sample Tasting Menu

Discover The Black Swan at Oldstead's Seasonal Tasting Menu: A Culinary Journey in York's Countryside Dining Scene.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Oldstead near York, The Black Swan at Oldstead offers a refined dining experience that celebrates the rich bounty of North Yorkshire's seasonal produce. This innovative restaurant combines rustic charm with modern culinary craftsmanship, inviting guests to indulge in a thoughtfully curated tasting menu that highlights local ingredients with meticulous attention to detail.

Begin your meal with exquisite starters that layer flavors with precision and creativity. The Crapaudine Beetroot starter features earthy crapaudine beetroot paired with fresh beetroot leaves, tangy goat's cheese, and crunchy walnuts, creating a vibrant and textured dish. Alternatively, the Scallops showcase tender scallops enhanced by a rich mussel broth, complemented by dill pickled apple and fermented garlic, delivering a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes.

The main courses skillfully celebrate local meats and fish with seasonal accompaniments. The Herdwick Lamb dish features tender lamb infused with fresh mint, served alongside earthy turnips and a rich lamb jus that enhances every bite. For a lighter option, the Halibut is pan-seared and served with delicate seaweed butter, crisp samphire, and tender new potatoes, capturing the essence of the nearby coast with every mouthful.

End your journey with the uniquely crafted Crapaudine Beetroot Cake. This dessert blends the natural sweetness of crapaudine beetroot with rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts, topped with smooth cream for a delightfully surprising finish that perfectly balances indulgence and freshness.

Complement your meal with carefully selected wines and cocktails designed to enhance the flavors of each course. The Black Swan offers an excellent drinks pairing option, including thoughtfully chosen non-alcoholic pairings for an inclusive experience. Seasonal specials may appear, showcasing the chef's latest inspirations and the finest of local ingredients, ensuring every visit reveals new culinary delights.

Experience authentic local flavors in a warm, intimate setting with attentive service and a menu that honors Yorkshire's best seasonal produce.

 like the vibrant Crapaudine Beetroot and delicate Scallops.

 featuring Herdwick Lamb and coastal Halibut with refined accompaniments.

 like the surprising Crapaudine Beetroot Cake with chocolate and hazelnuts.

 including wine and non-alcoholic options to enhance each course.

Discover The Black Swan at Oldstead, a culinary gem in York. Indulge in exquisite dining and charming lodging. Book your unforgettable experience today!

Stay at The Black Swan, Oldstead - York's Gem

York Municipality

A multi-course tasting menu featuring seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Tasting Menu

A selection of wines paired to complement each course of the tasting menu.

Wine Pairing

The black swan at oldstead york dining and lodging experience in north yorkshire england united kingdom 

Nestled in the picturesque village of Oldstead near York, North Yorkshire, The Black Swan at Oldstead offers a truly unique gastronomy and lodging escape. This acclaimed restaurant and inn combines innovative cuisine with an inviting, rustic charm, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers seeking a refined yet approachable country retreat.

Innovative tasting menu crafted from local ingredients

The Black Swan is celebrated for its exquisite multi-course tasting menu priced at £175, which showcases the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully composed to highlight the flavors of North Yorkshire produce, crafting a culinary journey that excites the palate with every bite. Guests can enhance their meal with a carefully curated wine pairing option for £75, featuring selections that perfectly complement each course’s complexity and character.

Dining takes place in a candlelit room adorned with Persian rugs and warmed by log fires, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere that complements the high-end cuisine. The Black Swan also offers lodging in charming rooms next to the restaurant, featuring upscale amenities such as four-poster beds and spacious bathrooms. While the accommodations receive mixed reviews regarding value, the overall experience is often described as memorable and perfect for special occasions.

 - A carefully crafted multi-course tasting menu highlighting the season's best produce and innovative cooking techniques.

 - An expertly selected wine pairing designed to enhance the flavors of each course on the tasting menu.

 - Enjoy dining by candlelight amidst Persian rugs and crackling log fires, creating a warm and inviting ambience.

 - Comfortable rooms nearby featuring four-poster beds and contemporary bathrooms, ideal for a restful night after an exquisite meal.

 - Free parking options including both lot and street parking allow easy access without hassle.

Whether you are a dedicated foodie looking to savor one of England’s most talked-about tasting menus or a traveler seeking charming accommodations in the heart of North Yorkshire, The Black Swan at Oldstead delivers a memorable experience. Its reputation balances modern British culinary artistry with a welcoming rural retreat atmosphere, appealing especially to those who appreciate seasonally driven menus paired with fine wines in a stylish setting.

Reservations are recommended as The Black Swan is popular among locals and tourists alike, especially for dinner service. The dining experience includes options for lunch and breakfast, making it versatile for different types of visits. Although the restaurant does not offer takeout or delivery, guests will find attentive service and a full bar with beer, wine, coffee, and cocktails available to enrich their dining pleasure. Note that the venue is more suited for adults and does not cater to children or pets.

Discover The Black Swan at Oldstead for a luxurious and authentic taste of North Yorkshire’s finest culinary craftsmanship paired with warm hospitality and a charming countryside setting.

The Black Swan at Oldstead: Unique Dining in the Heart of North Yorkshire's Countryside 

Nestled in the charming village of Oldstead near York, The Black Swan at Oldstead offers an immersive culinary journey deeply rooted in innovative cuisine and sustainability. Renowned for its innovative tasting menus that highlight locally sourced ingredients, this Michelin-starred restaurant elevates traditional British fare with creative flair. Guests can enjoy the warm ambiance of a candlelit dining room adorned with Persian rugs and cozy log fires, enhancing the intimate and unique dining experience.

Outstanding Pros that Make The Black Swan a Destination

The Black Swan's commitment to exceptional service consistently impresses visitors, who appreciate the attentive and knowledgeable staff guiding them through each course and carefully curated wine pairings. The restaurant's dedication to sustainability shines through in its use of locally sourced produce, supporting local farmers and ensuring freshness in every dish. This ethos combines perfectly with the creative tasting menus, which are designed to surprise and delight food enthusiasts seeking a memorable fine dining experience.

Considerations for Visitors Planning Their Visit

While The Black Swan at Oldstead provides an extraordinary culinary adventure, prospective guests should be aware of several factors that may impact their visit. The remote location in North Yorkshire offers tranquility and scenic beauty but requires planning transportation as it is less accessible than urban dining spots. Additionally, the high price point reflects the quality and exclusivity but might not suit all budgets.

Moreover, the menu options, though expertly crafted, are somewhat limited due to the focus on tasting menus and seasonal availability of local ingredients. This can be a downside for diners seeking a broader variety of dishes or more familiar options. Some guests have noted concerns about accommodation value and early morning noise from restaurant preparation when staying on-site, suggesting that lodging may not meet expectations for all visitors.

The Black Swan at Oldstead stands out as a premier destination for food lovers seeking an innovative and locally inspired tasting menu paired with attentive service in a cozy, rustic setting. However, its remote location, pricing, and limited lodging options may require thoughtful consideration before booking. For those prioritizing a unique culinary journey and sustainability, this gem in North Yorkshire offers an experience that is both memorable and reflective of the region's finest ingredients and hospitality traditions.

North Yorkshire

Experience Michelin-starred dining at The Black Swan in Oldstead, York. Enjoy locally sourced cuisine, cozy rooms, and scenic countryside.

The Black Swan Oldstead: Michelin Hotel & Fine Dining, York

Discover The Black Swan in Oldstead, York—an award-winning restaurant with luxurious accommodations and a beautiful, historic setting.

Visit The Black Swan at Oldstead for Gourmet Dining & Charming Rooms

Opening hours for The Black Swan, Oldstead. Find opening hours for The Black Swan at Oldstead, York on YO61 4BL - novacircle.com

Experience Luxury Dining at The Black Swan, Oldstead, York

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