Il Paradiso Del Cibo – Authentic Sardinian-Style Italian Dining in York
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Tucked away on Walmgate in York, Il Paradiso Del Cibo is a beloved, no-frills Italian restaurant run by Sardinian-born Paolo Silesu. Known for its lively buzz, generous portions, and deeply authentic flavours, it serves excellent pizzas, handmade pastas, and robust meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting. The menu leans heavily on Italian and Sardinian classics, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, and honest, hearty cooking that keeps locals and visitors returning. Cash only, so come prepared.
A brief summary to Il Paradiso Del Cibo
- 40 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ, GB
- +441904611444
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead, especially on weekends – the restaurant is small and popular, and tables fill up quickly.
- Bring cash; Il Paradiso Del Cibo is cash only and does not accept cards.
- Ask about the daily specials and don’t be afraid to show interest – regulars report that staff sometimes offer off-menu dishes or set menus for those who engage.
- Come hungry; portions are generous, and the menu is designed for sharing antipasti, a main, and a sweet finish.
- Embrace the atmosphere – it’s loud, informal, and full of character, with Italian football on TV and staff who are famously chatty and flirtatious.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Il Paradiso Del Cibo location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Il Paradiso Del Cibo
A Slice of Sardinia in York
Nestled on Walmgate, Il Paradiso Del Cibo feels less like a restaurant and more like a spirited corner of a Sardinian town brought to life in York. Run by Sardinian-born Paolo Silesu, this unpretentious Italian eatery has earned a devoted following for its genuine, home-style cooking and warm, informal atmosphere. The space is compact and bustling, with a few tables inside and a small outdoor area, all radiating the kind of convivial energy that comes from a place where food, football, and family are central to the experience.Food That Feels Like Home
The menu is a celebration of Italian and Sardinian staples: thin-based pizzas, rich pastas, and hearty meat dishes, all prepared with care and a distinct regional character. Expect beautifully made pizzas with crisp, chewy bases, generous toppings, and a satisfying char. Pastas are often handmade, from classic carbonara and lasagne to more distinctive offerings like pumpkin tortelloni with porcini sauce or swordfish triangoli with black olive and caper sauce. The kitchen also turns out excellent risottos, grilled meats, and seafood, with specials that change regularly and often reflect Paolo’s personal touch.Atmosphere and Service
Il Paradiso Del Cibo is loud, lively, and unapologetically casual. The interior is simple and functional, with a back room that some describe as shabby but others see as part of its charm. Italian football often plays on the TV, and the staff – many of whom are Italian – are famously friendly, chatty, and quick to flirt, especially with female guests. Service is attentive and personal, with waiters who remember regulars and aren’t shy about offering recommendations or even off-menu dishes if they sense genuine interest.Practicalities for Visitors
The restaurant is small and popular, so booking in advance is strongly advised, especially on weekends. Opening hours are focused on lunch and dinner, with no breakfast service. A key detail: Il Paradiso Del Cibo is cash only, so it’s essential to bring enough pounds to cover the meal and any drinks. The wine list is straightforward, with a good house red and white, and the occasional offer of a ‘normal’ or ‘good’ wine, delivered with a wink. A mandatory limoncello at the end of the meal is part of the ritual, though not always to everyone’s taste.Value and Local Reputation
One of the restaurant’s biggest draws is its value. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the overall experience feels like getting a lot for your money. It’s not a fine-dining destination in the traditional sense, but rather a place where the focus is squarely on flavour, authenticity, and hospitality. Over the years, it has become a staple of York’s dining scene, praised for its fresh, honest, rustic cooking and its refusal to be elitist. For many, it’s the go-to spot for a satisfying, no-nonsense Italian meal in the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Stonebow
0.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.3 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.4 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.4 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Walmgate Bar
0.4 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
Ouse Bridge
0.5 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
The York Cat Trail
0.5 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Bedern Hall
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.5 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Baile Hill
0.6 km
Experience the history and beauty of York at Baile Hill, where stunning views and rich heritage come together in a serene setting.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.6 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
York City Walls
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
Barley Hall
0.6 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brew York
0.1 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
Walmgate
0.2 km
Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
York Castle Museum
0.2 km
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, where historic prison walls and a vibrant Victorian street bring York’s rich past vividly to life.
Fairfax House
0.2 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.2 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
Dick Turpins grave
0.3 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.3 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
St Mary's Church
0.3 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.3 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.3 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.3 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.3 km
Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.3 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Essential places to dine
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.0 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
The Blue Barbakan
0.1 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Rustique Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Pavement Vaults
0.3 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Ate O'Clock
0.3 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
The Olive Tree
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Arras
0.4 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Valhalla York
0.4 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Corner Grill House
0.4 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Wine Stories
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Expressions
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Fenwick York
0.2 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.2 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Gift Gallery
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.4 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.4 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.4 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
York Souvenir's
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.4 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
0.5 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
0.5 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fossgate Social
0.2 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.2 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Blue Bell
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.3 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Three Tuns
0.3 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.3 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.4 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Plonkers
0.4 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
Pivní York
0.4 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Dyls
0.4 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Vudu Lounge
0.5 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.5 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.5 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Tank & Paddle York
0.5 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.6 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.7 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Popworld York
0.7 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
0.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.8 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.8 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.4 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.8 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.1 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.1 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.2 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.3 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly