Pavement Vaults: York's Premier Smokehouse Bar and Craft Beer Haven
York’s vibrant smokehouse bar serving authentic BBQ, craft beers, and innovative cocktails in a historic setting.
Pavement Vaults, located at 2 Piccadilly in historic York, is a vibrant smokehouse bar renowned for its authentic BBQ and smoked meats, complemented by an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. Open daily until late evening, it offers a lively atmosphere with generous portions, vegan options, and a unique blend of traditional and contemporary flavors, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
A brief summary to Pavement Vaults
- 2 Piccadilly, York, YO1 9QF, GB
- +441904670777
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the Mac and Cheese, a crowd favorite known for its rich, creamy texture and generous portion.
- Explore the rotating selection of craft beers from local microbreweries for a fresh tasting experience.
- Book a table in advance during weekends to secure seating, as the venue can get busy.
- Check out the hidden downstairs seating area to experience York’s underground vaults ambiance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Pavement Vaults 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 Pavement Vaults
A Historic Setting Transformed into a Smokehouse Bar
Nestled in the heart of York at 2 Piccadilly, Pavement Vaults occupies a site steeped in history. Originally part of a medieval street dating back to 1378, the location was once home to a coaching inn and later the White Swan Hotel, established in 1912. The venue’s name pays homage to the underground vaults beneath the city streets, adding a layer of historic intrigue to its modern identity. Today, Pavement Vaults combines this rich heritage with a contemporary smokehouse bar experience, offering a unique blend of old and new in its ambiance and culinary offerings.Exceptional BBQ and Smoked Cuisine
Pavement Vaults specializes in authentic BBQ and smoked meats prepared daily on-site using their own rubs and an imported 'Ole Hickory' smoker. The menu features a variety of hearty dishes including burgers, meat platters, and pitmaster trays, known for their generous portions and robust flavors. Alongside meat options, the venue caters to diverse dietary preferences with vegetarian and vegan dishes such as pulled jackfruit and smoked aubergine BBQ trays. The kitchen’s commitment to freshness and quality ensures a satisfying dining experience for all guests.A Curated Selection of Drinks to Complement the Menu
The bar at Pavement Vaults boasts an impressive and ever-changing lineup of craft beers, including eight cask and twelve keg varieties. Many of these are sourced from Tapped Brew Co’s microbreweries in Leeds and Sheffield, alongside rare spirits and innovative cocktails. The wine list is contemporary and thoughtfully curated to pair well with the smoky flavors of the food. This dedication to quality beverages enhances the overall experience, making it a destination for both food and drink enthusiasts.Atmosphere and Amenities
Pavement Vaults offers a lively and casual atmosphere with two floors that blend bar and dining spaces. The interior features cozy lighting and a soundtrack of classic rock and indie tunes, creating a welcoming environment for socializing or enjoying a meal. Facilities include disabled toilets, baby changing areas, and highchairs, ensuring accessibility and comfort for families. The venue is also dog-friendly and supports group bookings, making it versatile for various occasions.Community and Customer Experience
Known for friendly and attentive staff, Pavement Vaults has earned a strong local following. The bartenders are praised for their creativity, especially with unique shots and craft beer recommendations. While the venue is popular and can be busy, it maintains a relaxed vibe suitable for casual lunches, dinners, or drinks. The presence of vegan and gluten-free options further broadens its appeal, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.Operating Hours and Practical Information
Open daily from noon (11am on Saturdays) until 11:30pm, Pavement Vaults accommodates both early diners and late-night visitors. The kitchen typically serves food until 9:45pm, providing ample time to enjoy a full meal. Located close to York’s Parliament Square, it is easily accessible and a convenient stop for those exploring the city center.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament St
0.1 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
0.1 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.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Ouse Bridge
0.2 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
The Stonebow
0.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Bedern Hall
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Roman Column
0.4 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Norman House
0.4 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Anthonys Garden
0.4 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Sundial Column
0.4 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Walmgate
0.4 km
Explore Walmgate, a historic street in York, blending medieval charm with vibrant shops and delightful eateries in the heart of England.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.4 km
Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.4 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.1 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
28 Shambles
0.1 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.1 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Shambles and discover The Shop That Must Not Be Named, a magical Harry Potter emporium filled with wizarding wonders and immersive charm.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.1 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
St Mary's Church
0.1 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.1 km
A modest yet powerful shrine in York’s Shambles honoring Saint Margaret Clitherow, the courageous Catholic martyr known as the Pearl of York.
Shambles Market
0.1 km
Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.1 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.
The Potions Academy
0.1 km
Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
Shambles
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
Essential places to dine
Pavement Vaults
0.0 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
0.1 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
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.
Rustique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
The Blue Barbakan
0.2 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Valhalla York
0.2 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Corner Grill House
0.2 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
The Cut & Craft York
0.2 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Wildwood
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.3 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Give The Dog A Bone
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Gift Gallery
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
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.
Take One Gifts
0.2 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.2 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
York Souvenir's
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Expressions
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
0.2 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Social 8 Lounge
0.1 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Golden Fleece York
0.1 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
0.1 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.
The Blue Bell
0.1 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
0.1 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 Fossgate Social
0.1 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.2 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Pivní York
0.2 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.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Plonkers
0.2 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.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.2 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
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.3 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Popworld York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.0 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
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
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 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
34.9 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
34.9 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
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.1 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
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly