Fox & Roman

What's it good for?

Hearty pub food in a relaxed atmosphere.

Where is it?

The sister pub to The Dormouse on Shipton Road, The Fox and Roman is over a mile outside the City Walls perched beside Tadcaster Road, the main arterial route into town from the A64.

With its proximity to York Racecourse, The Fox and Roman has managed to strike a balance that many of the pubs catering to the races crowd fail to do by having a focus on food rather than drink, creating a nice atmosphere year-round.

What's it all about?

I've always seen the Fox and Roman as a refuge from all around it. The racecourse, the main road, the weather, whatever it is outside vanishes as you walk through the door, greeted by a roaring log fire in winter and an array of local beers on the bar.

A large part of the pub is handed over to restaurant style seating and service which can feel awkward in some pub settings, but the Fox and Roman is actually two buildings knocked through, so the split between the pub and the restaurant feels natural.

What's on the bar?

The staff have always been welcoming, engaging, and knowledgeable about everything on the menu and behind the bar. There are 6 pumps with rotating guest ales alongside Black Sheep and Yorkshire Terrier and wines by the glass.

Do they serve food?

I would say food is the main focus of the Fox & Roman. A major plus in my book is that Sunday Lunch is served until 9.30pm which is a rarity. The portions are large and there are regular deals on their website.

Is it accessible / allow kids / dogs?

Flat throughout, plenty of space, there is a kids menu. I'm guessing dogs aren't allowed inside as there is a metal hoop attached to the outside wall with a "for your four legged friends" sign next to it so the beer garden is your best bet.