Whether you’re seeking to end the summer on a high or making social plans to brighten the coming autumn, SPARK* is the ultimate destination for those who want to dine, drink and have fun outdoors in York.
Founded in 2018, this creative community initiative transformed an unused site on Piccadilly into a vibrant village of shipping containers where some of the city’s best start ups are now nurtured. Many of these are food and drink businesses and there’s something to suit all tastes, from Clucking Oinks’ buttermilk fried chicken burgers to Greek cuisine from Sasa or wood-fired pizza from RAD.
In the summer, SPARK* is open air but there are plenty of canopied areas to provide shade and heaters to keep you warm in the evening. During the winter, a canvas canopy is stretched across the whole site, so you can stay dry whatever the weather. Dogs are welcome and one of the best things about SPARK* is that you can buy food from different traders to eat at the same table – so if you’re craving one of Baby Boy’s burgers but your friends fancy Sicilian street food from Tiro there’s no need to compromise.
SPARK*’s traders cater to all dietary requirements, whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, teetotal or following a halal or gluten-free diet. You can try dishes from all around the globe here, including Gujarati street food from Sarras – who have plenty of veggie options on their menu – or grilled meat dishes from the Brazilian-inspired Vovó Cantina.
The last few months at SPARK* have seen the arrival of some exciting new stalls. Junk Soul Smothered opened back in May and it serves tasty comfort food that’s 100% plant-based. On its menu, you’ll find hot dogs, loaded fries and burgers like the sweet and zesty Jamaican-inspired Jerk Pineapple ‘chicken’ burger in its Insta-worthy pink beetroot bun. Another newcomer is Kamakiri Ramen, which specialises in authentic ramen, along with stuffed bao buns, gyozas and other specials that give traditional Japanese recipes a modern twist. If you’re visiting in mid September, you’ll be able to treat yourself to a Dubai chocolate ice cream sundae or bowl of tasty loaded hummus as Waqif Arabian Kitchen will be back for another pop up.
Whatever you choose to eat, you can accompany it with drinks like Black Lines’ cocktails, an alcohol-free aperol spritz or daiquiri from Boho Mixologists, coffee from Node, or craft beer from Turning Point’s Outpost.
