A Taste of the Yorkshire Coast
Discovering Local Flavours with a Little Help from Our Hosts
When we booked our stay at Staithes View, a charming cottage perched in the hills above the North Yorkshire coastline, we were looking forward to peace, sea air, and long coastal walks. What we didn’t expect was the culinary journey we’d embark upon—guided entirely by our wonderful hosts, Max and Dawn.
On our first afternoon, cup of tea in hand, we casually asked if there were any good spots to eat nearby. Max’s eyes lit up. “What kind of food do you like?” he asked. And with that, we were off. Whether we mentioned fresh seafood, a proper pub roast, or something a little more adventurous, Max and Dawn had just the place in mind.
That evening, we started with a classic: fish and chips from a terrific seaside takeaway. It was exactly what we needed after a long journey—hot, salty, satisfying, and totally unfussy.
Another night saw us dressing up for something more elegant: a tucked-away restaurant in a neighbouring village where the food was all locally sourced and plated with precision. The dining room was cosy, the service impeccable, and each course told a story of the region’s seasonal bounty.
We ventured inland one lunchtime for a traditional Sunday roast at a warm, stone-built inn hidden among the moors. With roaring fires, friendly locals, and generous helpings of slow-cooked meats and Yorkshire puddings, it felt like stepping into a postcard of rural England.
Not all our meals were traditional, though. One evening, craving something with spice and colour, we were pointed to a bustling Thai in Saltburn where we enjoyed vibrant Southeast Asian flavours—fragrant curries, zingy salads, and cocktails with a kick. It was a world away from the coast just outside, and yet somehow it all worked.
Another highlight came in the form of a modern seaside restaurant with sweeping views of the ocean. Recommended for a relaxed late afternoon experience with a view, it delivered beautifully cooked seafood, crisp white wine, and one of the most spectacular sunsets we’ve ever seen.
And then there was the final stop—an inviting little bistro with a relaxed feel and a menu full of seaside classics, done right. It struck the perfect balance between casual and quality, and made for a memorable last evening of the trip.
Looking back, each meal was more than just food—it was part of the rhythm of our days, a way of discovering the area through its tastes and traditions. What made it special was how personal it felt. We didn’t pick these places from tourist guides or TripAdvisor reviews. We simply asked Max and Dawn what they would recommend—and we’re so glad we did.
If you’re staying at Staithes View, take our advice: tell Max and Dawn what you’re craving, and trust them to point you in the right direction. The Yorkshire coast has a lot to offer—and every flavour tells a story.