Ah Yorkshire. There’s a reason why locals have crowned it God’s Own Country (no offence to Lancashire intended). Home to stunning national parks, dramatic coastlines, vibrant cities and picturesque market towns, the UK’s largest county really does have it all.

Amongst the plethora of reasons why you might want to visit this eclectic region, in recent years Yorkshire has developed a burgeoning reputation as a foodie’s paradise. Each year travellers from the UK and abroad are drawn to places like York, Leeds, Sheffield, and Harrogate for more than the promise of a well-cooked Yorkshire pudding.

In fact, the aforementioned towns and cities now boast some of the best restaurants in the country, everything from quirky street food stalls to fine-dining eateries dominate Yorkshire’s culinary landscape.

If you’re in the Northwest and want to plan a trip to this special county, you’ll no doubt want to seek out some of these renowned dining spots. However, what if you’re pressed for time or simple don’t fancy a 3-course evening meal? From sumptuous street food offerings to lush lunch time offerings, we bring you the best places in Yorkshire for a delicious snack or light bite.

North Yorkshire

An area that encompasses the historic city of York, leafy Harrogate and coastal Whitby, North Yorkshire is blessed with plenty of spots for a delicious light bite.

In Harrogate you’ll find Betty’s Tea Room, the go-to place to enjoy a satisfying brew and a taste tingling assortment of sandwiches, scones, and cakes. If you’re in the mood for something a little bit more exotic then check out Essenza Bar & Tapas. Here you can sample a diverse mixture of flavoursome small plates including tangy patatas bravas and succulent chicken skewers.

If you happen to find yourself on the North Yorkshire coast, then firstly lucky you. Second, you must try some fresh seafood. Head to Trenchers for an incredible lobster lunch whilst visitors can enjoy exceptional fish and chips at Hadley’s. Likewise, if you happen to be visiting Scarborough (not far from Whitby) you’ll find amazing fish and chips at the Lifeboat Fish Bar.

Heading back across the A64 we come to the historic city of York. Hungry visitors will want to make a pit stop on Stonegate where you’ll find The York Roast Co. Serving up delicious Yorkshire wraps, made with Yorkshire pudding and your choice of juicy meat and veg, this hearty snack is guaranteed to get your taste buds tingling.

For a more sophisticated snack or lunchtime bite head to the York Museum Gardens area of the city where you’ll discover The Star Inn The City. Arguably the magnum opus of Whitby-born Chef Andrew Pern, this AA-rosette winning restaurant consistently tops the list of best places for lunch in York.

Diners can enjoy ‘Snacks of Substance’ here which include a chargrilled Bavarian style sausage or if you fancy a quick steak for lunch opt for the incredible salt-aged Yorkshire reared sirloin.

West Yorkshire

Home to the Yorkshire ‘capital’ Leeds, as well as the UK’s best city for curries, you’ll be spoilt for choice for exceptional light bite options in West Yorkshire.

Starting in Leeds, if flavour-packed street food tickles your fancy then grab some lunch from Zaap Thai in the Grand Arcade (the Dim Sum is to die-for). You’ll also find plenty of amazing lunch options in Trinity Kitchen, a quirky food market located inside Leeds Trinity shopping centre.

Away from the city centre, try The Agora in Horsforth. Here hungry diners can enjoy gorgeous Greek food that’s both light and incredibly scrumptious.

A chicken tikka masala with rice and all the works may not exactly constitute a light snack. However, it would be remiss us to ignore Indian food if you find yourself in Bradford.  Sultan’s is a fine choice for curry lovers exploring this part of Yorkshire. Diners can enjoy favourites including a balti, korma or madras here or why not grab a few somas and some pakora to satisfy your appetite?

Elsewhere in West Yorkshire, head to Qubana in Wakefield and sample some exceptional tapas. If you’re contemplating a boozy lunch, then the cocktails here are a must-try.

South Yorkshire

The steel city Sheffield is South Yorkshire’s biggest city and if you’re swinging by the birthplace of the Artic Monkeys you’ll find plenty of top eateries where you can grab food and drink.

If you fancy a delicious plate of salmon and poached eggs, then head to Howst Café (here you’ll also find plenty of great brunch options including freshly prepared sandwiches). If you’re inclined to sample some stunning street food, then you won’t be disappointed by The Street Food Café. This award-winning eatery serves a yummy selection of Mexican favourites, including enchiladas, as well as refreshing soft drinks.

The second largest city in South Yorkshire, Doncaster, is also home to an abundance of dining spots that are perfect for a quick bite. Visit Lalezar BBQ & Meze for some mouth-watering Turkish food which includes fab options for vegetarians.

Away from the South Yorkshire cities, if you happen to be visiting Maltby, perhaps on the way to the popular Yorkshire Wildlife Park attraction, stop by Sizzlers where you can choose from an extensive selection of scrumptious sandwiches, wraps and sweet treats.

East Yorkshire

The East Yorkshire region is home to the vibrant port city of Hull, as well as a plethora of picturesque market towns that serve as a great base for exploring the magnificent Yorkshire Dales or North York Moors.

Starting with the 2017 UK capital of culture Hull, if you’re looking for a nibble look no further than Nibbles Café. Juicy cheeseburgers, crunchy toasties and fresh sandwiches decorate the menu here whilst the artisan-style coffee is the perfect complement to any light bite.

For a taste of authentic Yorkshire then head to the Lion & Key, a highly rated pub serving all your favourite British classics such as pie and mash, fish and chips, and there’s even several tasty salad options too.

Staying in East Yorkshire, the charming town of Bridlington is a great place to visit and a popular stop over point for those visiting the Yorkshire coast. Favoured light bite spots include Little Sicily, which proudly serves authentic Italian dishes include pizza, pasta and calzone.

Finally, the Westwood Restaurant in Beverley is a must-visit if you’re peckish and visiting this picture-perfect market town. Serving delicious seasonal soups all year round (with crusty bread of course), diners can also nibble on a daily cheeseboard and enjoy a few scoops of ice cream in the summer.