Merchants Coffee House

54-56 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(95 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Welcome to Merchants Coffee House, a delightful café nestled in the heart of York at 54-56 Fossgate. Here, the charm of a traditional coffee house meets the warmth of a welcoming atmosphere, creating an inviting oasis for both locals and visitors. Whether you're on a coffee break, enjoying a light lunch, or simply indulging in a well-deserved slice of cake, Merchants Coffee House has something special to offer every guest.

As you step inside this quaint establishment, you'll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked treats. The menu boasts an impressive selection of homemade cakes and snacks, where each bite tells a story of care and craftsmanship. Be sure to try the Homemade Fruit Scone or the Brownie, each offering a perfect blend of flavors that, as customer Keshh notes, leave a lasting impression. The Lemon Drizzle Cake and Carrot Cake are also must-tries—ideal for those with a sweet tooth yearning for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

For those seeking something a bit more substantial, the Yorkshire Rarebit presents a hearty option that encapsulates local flavors. And if you're in the mood for a quick bite, the selection of sandwiches—including the classic Egg Mayonnaise and the savory Cheese & Yorkshire Chutney—will surely satisfy your midday cravings.

The ambiance at Merchants Coffee House is as remarkable as its menu. With comfortable seating, friendly staff, and a lovely outdoor garden area, it crafts an intimate setting for a relaxing pause in your day. Customers consistently highlight the café’s cleanliness and prompt service, making it a favorite among those who wish to unwind while enjoying their refreshments. As Paul Sanders expressed, it’s a perfect spot to relax after exploring the rich history of York, particularly after a tour of the nearby historic sites.

One of the most endearing aspects of Merchants Coffee House is its dog-friendly nature—a feature that has made it a cherished stop for pet owners like Elisa Winstanley, whose pup received a warm welcome along with treats during her visit. It’s these small, thoughtful touches that truly elevate the experience here, making every guest feel special.

In summary, if you find yourself wandering the enchanting streets of York, make it a point to visit Merchants Coffee House. Not only will you enjoy delicious food and drinks, but you'll also become part of a warm community experience that welcomes everyone, whether you're solo, with friends, or even with furry companions in tow. Indulge in a slice of heritage and a cup of joy at Merchants—your perfect retreat in this beautiful city.

Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Crowd
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
Openings Hours

Monday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

95 Reviews
Paul Sanders

18 Sep 2025

What a great find. It was opposite the 'Park and Ride' bus stop, we went for tea and WiFi, and did the tour. Well worth it, the upkeep must be horrendously expensive. Café great, tour tremendous.

Mr. Wilson

08 Sep 2025

Fantastic little coffee, tea and pastry shop. Great stop the isn't as busy as some of the tourist traps, but is actually at a historic site

Keshh

05 Aug 2025

Lovely spot for a coffee break in York! Merchants Coffee House has a great selection of tasty cakes and plenty of outdoor seating—perfect for relaxing in the sun. The staff are friendly, service is prompt, and the place is well-kept with clean toilets. A great place to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

Elisa Winstanley

04 Aug 2025

We were looking for a dog friendly place to have a coffee and decided to give this place a try! We came in and were warmly welcomed by the staff. They made a fuss of our little dog!! It wasn’t that busy and picked a table with space around. The lovely lady gave our dog a water bowl and subsequently another waitress gave her some ham as a treat! She loved the attention! We ordered coffees and a cake and it came very quickly. It’s a really inviting place to come for a rest and refreshment, and we will definitely be back for cream teas as the fruit scones looked delicious!

Hajar Mahfoodh

03 Aug 2025

The best scones and one of the best coffees. The entrance to the house is a bit overpriced though. The atmosphere is great and the garden is just so lovely.

Amit Tamari

30 Jul 2025

Beautiful location! Cake was delicious and the hot chocolate is amazing

Jane Barrett

05 Jul 2025

Lovely cafe in beautiful gardens right in the centre of york. Great menu, good food and reasonable prices.

bonnie kelly

28 May 2025

Delicious quiche and salad for brunch served with a cappuccino in the beautiful garden. A definite must do if you are in the York area:

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