Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms - York

We visited Betty's as we had been gifted a voucher and although we were very much looking forward to it, there were a few minor things that let it down. We hadn't booked ahead but we only waited about 15 minutes for a table for two and were seated downstairs, so the short wait time was a pleasant surprise. We weren't too fussed about whether we were upstairs or down, however upon descending there was a strong smell of fish or fishcakes which wasn't particularly enticing. One of the things that we were most looking forward to was the famous cake trolley and an explanation about the cakes available, however when we asked the staff member waiting on us, they said that it was too busy and they weren't able to wheel it over (it was pretty much next to us) but we could go and view it if we liked. It was the lunch rush so we did understand but it was disappointing to have travelled so far to experience the world famous Betty's and not actually having the full experience. The waitress did come back later apologising and asking us if we wanted to view the trolley later on, but by that point we had already ordered and eaten. The food however was on point. The cream tea was really tasty, freshly made and quite light for a scone; and the Yorkshire curd tart was like a more substantial egg custard in flavour, very tasty. The white tea was very light and floral while the Betty blend was a good strong tea. The extra pot of hot water was also very much appreciated. Overall I would recommend but as we had high hopes for the overall atmosphere and experience, we were slightly disappointed. As silly as it sounds it would perhaps be worth adding a disclaimer to say the trolley viewing isn't possible at peak times to manage expectations.

We visited twice, once for the booked afternoon tea and once got breakfast in the normal tea room. Everything was super lovely and the staff were so attentive and accommodating! We were able to swap some of the sandwiches of the booked afternoon tea based on our preferences which we really appreciated. There was also space to store our cases out of the way, which was really helpful. Overall a lovely experience!

Lovely place for tea, bakeries, and even the proper meal here. Everything was exceptional from the entrance service, all the staffs, ambience, and most importantly the food. We had winter specialties (banana & toffee pancake, Yorkshire sausages), both are delicious. The Yorkshire fat rascal scone was also good but I’d prefer the one with clotted cream and jam. If you want to sit on the first floor, the only option to join is to queue up which takes around 20-40 mins, depends on the queue. However, advance booking will be escorted to the second floor where you don’t need to wait but the set menu and ambience could be a bit different. Overall, highly recommended if you’re in York.

The soup and the York sausage are very delicious! My husband and I shared meal. The soup was very good mount even shared and nicely warm and calm taste. The york sausage was juicy and meaty! Not fake taste! I recommend going before lunch time rush. We went 11:30am was no line, but 12:00pm was long line. (We went there on Monday, and rain weather)

Friday afternoon (non school holiday) and there was a queue for about 15/20 minutes. We weren't expecting much as we thought it might just be one of those famous places that tourists must try once. We were pretty wrong. The service were great, fat rascal and cakes were delicious, tea were good. We had an enjoyable experience and would definitely like to be back again next time.

Seriously, it's worth every penny. It is such a good atmosphere, and the staff are accommodating and friendly. They will instantly compensate you in case of any mishaps. My partner and I enjoyed our two visits here, one for his birthday celebration. I would definitely recommend buying someone their voucher as a gift!

Visited York for a long weekend & ended up going to Betty’s twice as one visit wasn’t enough. It’s a beautiful tearooms with so much history. The staff were wonderful & friendly & the food is amazing. Had dinner here the first time which had a small wait time & then went back for breakfast the next day early & was able to go straight in. If I’m ever back in the area I shall be going back in wait or no wait! Can’t rate this lovely place enough.