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Plonkers Wine Bar & Bistro: York’s Riverside Gem for Home-Cooked Fare and Fine Drinks

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.

4.5

Plonkers Wine Bar & Bistro is a family-run, independent wine bar and bistro located on York’s historic riverside. Since the 1980s, it has offered high-quality, locally sourced home-cooked food alongside a wide selection of wines, craft beers, and spirits. Known for its warm, friendly atmosphere and live music events, Plonkers provides a cozy yet lively setting in the heart of York, perfect for casual dining, drinks, and seasonal celebrations.

A brief summary to Plonkers

  • 5 Cumberland St, York, YO1 9SW, GB
  • +441904655307
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-11 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 am
  • Saturday 10 am-1 am
  • Sunday 10 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Try the Sunday carvery for a hearty, well-portioned traditional meal.
  • Enjoy the riverside seating area when weather permits for a scenic dining experience.
  • Check the schedule for live music on Fridays and open mic nights on Sundays.
  • Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the venue can fill up.
  • Sample the craft beers and specialty gins alongside your meal for a complete experience.
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Plonkers location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Plonkers

A Legacy of Local Flavor and Family Hospitality

Plonkers Wine Bar & Bistro has been a cherished part of York’s riverside since the early 1980s. This family-owned establishment prides itself on independence, enabling it to source the best local produce and support regional breweries and suppliers. The name "Plonkers" playfully references the 1980s slang for inexpensive French wine, reflecting the bar’s approachable yet quality-driven ethos. Over the decades, the venue has evolved through three generations of ownership, each adding to its unique character and welcoming ambiance.

Distinctive Riverside Setting and Atmosphere

Nestled on a cobbled side street near the river, Plonkers offers both indoor charm and an inviting outdoor riverside seating area, weather permitting. The interior exudes rustic warmth with dim lighting and a cozy feel, while the riverside terrace provides a scenic spot for enjoying drinks and meals in the fresh air. The bar’s location near York’s city centre and river makes it a peaceful retreat that can occasionally buzz with lively events, balancing tranquility with vibrant social energy.

Home-Cooked Menus with Generous Portions

Plonkers specializes in hearty, home-cooked dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu features popular items such as a well-regarded Sunday carvery, flavorful hanging kebabs, classic fish and chips with notably crispy chips, and seasonal specials like chili served with sour cream. Portions are generous, and the presentation is inviting, catering to a range of tastes including vegetarian and vegan options. The bar also offers an extensive selection of fine wines, craft beers, lagers, cocktails, and specialty gins, ensuring a drink to complement every meal.

Community Events and Live Entertainment

Beyond food and drink, Plonkers is known for its engaging social calendar. Regular events include open mic nights every Sunday, live music performances on Fridays, and seasonal celebrations for occasions like Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. These events foster a strong sense of community and add to the venue’s reputation as a lively cultural hub within York’s historic setting.

Welcoming Service and Inclusive Experience

The staff at Plonkers are noted for their friendly, attentive service, contributing to the bar’s family-like atmosphere. Visitors often highlight the warm welcome and personalized attention they receive, making it a comfortable spot for locals, tourists, families, couples, and solo visitors alike. The venue’s accessibility and relaxed vibe make it suitable for a wide audience, including vegetarian and vegan guests.

Practical Details and Visitor Information

Plonkers operates daily from 10am, with food served until 9pm and the bar open later on Fridays and Saturdays until 1am. The venue includes upstairs seating and restroom facilities. Its central location near York’s river and city centre offers easy access for visitors exploring the historic city. Whether stopping by for a casual drink, a full meal, or a special event, Plonkers provides a memorable experience rooted in local tradition and conviviality.

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