The Best Places To Eat In Malton, UK

If you’re visiting the friendly North Yorkshire town of Malton and wondering where to eat, you’ve come to the right place. Malton is famous as the food capital of Yorkshire, and the restaurants in Malton range from cosy cafés to proper fine dining – all with a strong focus on local produce.

I live near Malton and have been trying out their food places for ages now. From Italian to tapas to classic pub grub, here are my picks for the best places to eat in Malton, updated for 2026.

Let’s see where you can get great food in this lovely market town.

Why is Malton Called Yorkshire’s Food Capital?

Before we dive into specific restaurants in Malton, it’s worth knowing why this town has earned its reputation. Malton has become renowned for its focus on locally sourced, artisan food. The town is surrounded by incredible Yorkshire produce – seafood from the North Yorkshire coast, game from the moors, rare-breed cattle and pigs, local cheeses, craft beer, and so much more.

The bi-annual Malton Food Festival celebrates this with artisan stalls, street food, celebrity chef demonstrations, and live music. It’s proper brilliant and draws people from all over Yorkshire.

Malton also won awards for being one of the best places to live in Britain (The Sunday Times, 2017 and 2018) and was named the dog-friendliest town in the country in 2018 and 2019. So if you’re bringing your four-legged friend, loads of these restaurants in Malton welcome dogs.

Top Malton Restaurants Worth Visiting

FortySix Malton

I’ve been here twice and it’s a great choice for anyone looking for delicious food in the centre of Malton. It’s right in Yorkshire’s food capital, and has been honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award for 2024.

The menu features small plates and main courses made from fresh local ingredients, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. I’m a big fan of the fish sharing platter – it’s brilliant if you’re with someone and want to try loads of different things.

It’s a great place to eat for a special occasion. The atmosphere is relaxed but feels quite special at the same time. Locals absolutely rave about this place, and I can see why.

Check out my full review here.

Address: 46 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LW

What to order: Fish sharing platter, small plates

Website: https://www.fortysixmalton.co.uk/

La Trattoria

La Trattoria is a brilliant choice for Italian cuisine. It’s owned by Francois Strydom (also known as The Fat Chef) and embodies classic Italian family cooking.

I’ve visited the Helmsley La Trattoria but haven’t been to the Malton one yet, though it’s on my list. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy a bottle of wine and chat over tasty wood-fired pizza and large portions of pasta.

Mark Brayshaw, head of Visit Malton, says this is one of his favourite spots: “One of my favourite stops is La Trattoria, it’s Italian – I love Italian.” It gets great reviews online with a 4.5 star rating.

The menu features authentic wood-fired pizza, Venetian tapas, and more on their brunch, lunch and dinner menus. The family-friendly atmosphere means it’s great for all ages.

Address: 51 Wheelgate, Malton YO17 7HT

What to order: Wood-fired pizza, Venetian tapas

Website: https://www.fatchefcompany.co.uk/la-trattoria-malton/

Pizza On The Square

This is a lovely Italian spot that serves delicious pizza and Italian sandwiches. There’s also a great selection of beer and wine from SALT Beer Factory.

One visitor, Olivia, said: “The Pizza on the Square in the marketplace, that’s quite nice. Their pizzas, I always go for the pepperoni pizza, are really nice there. The atmosphere is really good, they do a pub quiz on a Tuesday and then they have live music on a Friday and a Saturday which is always brilliant.”

They’re serving up delicious sourdough pizzas to pair with all your favourite SALT Beer Factory craft beers and Ossett Brewery cask ales. It’s right in the Old Town Hall on Market Place, so you can’t miss it.

Read my full review here.

Address: Old Town Hall, Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LW

What to order: Sourdough pizzas, craft beer

Website: https://taps.saltbeerfactory.co.uk/pizza-on-the-square/

Ømni Bar Malton

After The New Malton closed a few years ago, those who ran it opened Ømni bar Malton instead. It’s a bar and Yorkshire tapas grill, which is a great option for a more casual meal with drinks.

They serve a range of drinks and Yorkshire tapas in a friendly atmosphere right in the centre of Malton’s picturesque Market Place. You can book in advance. I really love the upstairs of this bar and can’t wait to try the food properly.

It’s become quite popular for after-work drinks and casual dining with mates.

Address: 22 Market Place, Malton, York, YO17 7LX

What to order: Yorkshire tapas, cocktails

Website: https://omnimalton.co.uk/

The Talbot

I’ve eaten at the Talbot many times now. It’s a hotel with a large pub and restaurant, and honestly, it’s one of my favourite places to eat in Malton.

The views from the beer garden are stunning – the Georgian building has commanding views looking out over the River Derwent. It’s brilliant to sit outside on a warm day, watching the river flow past whilst you eat.

Inside, the interiors are chic without feeling precious. They encourage a relaxed approach to dining with attentive and friendly staff. The menu offers options for all appetites from classic mains such as fish and chips or burgers, to sandwiches with a side of skinny fries.

I love that they cater well for allergens – they offer many gluten-free options and are helpful with other dietary requirements. The brunch is particularly good (I’ve had the eggs Benedict a few times and it’s spot on).

It’s also close to Talbot Yard, where there are a few quirky shops selling lovely food and drink, so you can have a proper wander around after eating.

I was in this bar waiting for the phone call to say I could collect my keys on the day our house was completed! It’ll always be special to me for that reason.

Read my full review here.

Address: Yorkersgate, Malton YO17 7AJ

What to order: Brunch (eggs Benedict), fish and chips, Sunday roast

Website: https://talbotmalton.co.uk/

Florios Pizzeria Ristorante

Right in the centre of Malton, Florios serves Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere. They have an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action, which kids absolutely love.

This restaurant is ideal whether you’re craving pasta, handmade pizza or a delicious three-course meal. They also offer daily specials inspired by local, seasonal ingredients.

The prices are reasonable, and they provide an early bird menu, making it very affordable. One reviewer mentioned: “Visited for the first time tonight, what a lovely little hidden gem in Malton – we have been visiting Malton yearly for over 10 years and never spotted this restaurant!”

Address: 19 Market Place, Malton YO17 7LP

What to order: Handmade pizza, pasta, daily specials

Price: Reasonable, with an early bird menu available

Chapter Two Bar

This stylish bistro in the heart of Malton makes its food fresh daily using locally sourced ingredients. The staff are very friendly and will go out of their way to help with any requirements.

They serve small plates, light lunches, toasties and sandwiches. Of course, you have to try their cocktails whilst you’re there. Chapter Two’s Sweet Treats is located next door in Malton’s Market Place if you fancy something sweet afterwards.

Address: 5 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LP

What to order: Small plates, cocktails

Website: Check their social media for current menus

The Old Lodge

This 17th Century Tudor mansion stands in beautifully manicured gardens. It’s a more upmarket option with 29 bedrooms and a dining room.

It’s perfect for special occasions or if you want something a bit more formal. The setting is stunning and the food lives up to the surroundings.

Address: Old Maltongate, Malton YO17 7EG

Website: https://www.theoldlodgemalton.co.uk/

The Mount Hotel Malton

Relaxed and informal hotel built in 1870. A central location with a bar and restaurant for modern casual dining.

This is a solid option if you’re staying in Malton and want somewhere convenient, or if you prefer a more traditional hotel restaurant setting.

Address: 56 Yorkersgate, Malton YO17 7AB

Website: https://www.themounthotelmalton.co.uk/

Kerala Restaurant

Malton’s very first South Indian restaurant! They opened in November and serve authentic South Indian cuisine.

This is a brilliant addition to the Malton restaurant scene, offering something different from the Italian and British options.

Address: 33 Yorkersgate, Malton YO17 7AA

Opening hours: Tuesdays – Sundays 5 pm-10.30 pm

Cross Keys Chinese Restaurant

This is a new Chinese restaurant that has just opened, it does eat in, collection and delivery. We had takeout a few weeks ago and it’s very good!

Address:  47 Wheelgate, Malton YO17 7HT

Website: crosskeysrestaurant.co.uk

Best Cafes in Malton

The Patisserie Malton

I’ve been here twice now, once for coffee and cake, and another time for lunch. It’s a delicious café with cakes and treats made right in Malton!

If you’re a fan of afternoon teas, The Patisserie Malton certainly delivers with its much-loved speciality. They also boast a moreish menu that can be enjoyed inside the cosy patisserie or as a takeaway.

If you’re eating in, you can settle down for a mega start to your day, whether you’re in the mood for a bacon sarnie or a big breakfast stack. The pastries are absolutely gorgeous – properly French-style patisserie.

Address: 14 Saville Street, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 7LL

What to order: Afternoon tea, pastries, big breakfast stack

Website: https://www.thepatisseriemalton.co.uk/

The Pantry Coffee House & Eatery

This café and coffee shop is a great place to have lunch and caters for a wide range of diets. Liz from Kemps Books mentioned this as one of her favourites.

They serve everything from breakfast to light lunches, with vegetarian and vegan options available. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.

Address: 12-14 Market Street, Malton YO17 7LY

What to order: Light lunches, coffee

Website: https://www.thepantrymalton.co.uk/

Leoni’s Coffee House

One of Malton’s best-loved coffee shops, and one of the few places actually open at 9am. I tried to get in at lunchtime with my husband once and couldn’t — it was completely full. That tells you everything.

The coffee has a proper backstory: the founder, Simon Robertson, won the UK Barista Championship three times, and their house espresso blend is the same one used in those championships. I’d go for the coffee shake — think thick and icy like a McDonald’s milkshake, not just cold flavoured milk. The Malton Monster (a scone-meets-hot-cross-bun with cherries and cinnamon) is brilliant too. Worth knowing that the morning menu leans towards sweet things and baked goods rather than savoury breakfast options.

Pram-friendly, with a covered secure area to leave buggies outside and upstairs seating for a bit more space.

Read my full Leoni’s review here.

Address: 16 Wheelgate, Malton, YO17 7HP

What to order: Coffee shake, Malton Monster

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5:30pm. Closed Sunday.

Website: leonismalton.co.uk

Lutt and Turner

This is a proper local favourite for breakfast and coffee. If a local recommends it, you know it’s good.

Address: 12-14 Market Street, Malton, YO17 7LY

What to order: Breakfast, Roost coffee

Malton Relish

Update: Relish closed on 21st February 2026. They will still be available for catering events, canapes and cakes. 

We went to Malton Relish on Christmas Eve for a cup of coffee and a sausage roll. It’s a deli that also serves food and drink. They have a counter full of cakes and savoury pasties as well as a menu of sandwiches, paninis and more.

It’s a great stop-off if you’re shopping in Malton for the day! It has such a friendly atmosphere, and they sell loads of local food products that you can take home with you.

Read my full review here.

Address: 58 Market Place, Malton, YO17 7LW

What to order: Sandwiches, sausage rolls, local produce

Website: https://www.maltonrelish.co.uk/

Roost Coffee

Roost Coffee is Malton’s own coffee roastery, and you can find their coffee in various cafés around town. If you’re serious about your coffee, this is what you want to look for.

Read my full Roost Coffee review here.

Pubs in Malton

The Royal Oak Pub & Kitchen

Located in the village of Old Malton just off the A64, close to Eden Camp military museum, this is a fantastic traditional country pub.

Inside, you’ll find a very welcoming snug where you and the dog can kick back, as well as a large dining area with views over the lovely garden. The atmosphere features charming beams and an open fireplace, creating warmth.

They serve all your favourite pub staples, including top-notch burgers and Whitby scampi. The Guinea fowl with crushed potatoes, samphire, and broccoli gets excellent reviews.

Address: The Green, Old Malton, YO17 7HD

What to order: Guinea fowl, burgers, Whitby scampi

Derwent Arms

Nicely decorated, spacious, modern, clean pub with parking and a decent menu. The food is lovely – well-seasoned, tasty burgers and scampi. They cater for vegan needs as well. It’s a very typical pub grub food if you’re after a casual meal.

Very friendly, polite service, though it can take a bit of time to receive your food. Worth the wait though!

The best thing about the pub is that they are always willing to get stuck into the community, host events and help bring the market town together as a real community. They really deserve your custom.

Address:  26 Church St, Norton, Malton YO17 9HS

The Fox and Rabbit Inn

A traditional country pub located in the North York Moors National Park on the edge of Dalby Forest. They offer high-quality food and drink in comfortable surroundings.

Patrons are welcome to enjoy anything from a pint of ale to a three-course meal. Perfect if you’ve been walking in the moors and need somewhere cosy to warm up.

More Malton Restaurants Worth Trying

El Gringos

If it’s Mexican food you’re craving, El Gringo’s offers a wide selection of Mexican and Tex-Mex food. Generous portions and a fun, friendly atmosphere.

El Gringo’s has been in Malton for over 20 years and is just growing from strength to strength. Prices are reasonable, and they also have an early bird or express menu to take advantage of.

What to order: Mexican and Tex-Mex favourites

Price: Reasonable, early bird menu available

Tui’s Restaurant

Great food and a relaxed ambience await at Tui’s in Malton. They serve an unrivalled range of authentic and imaginative fusion dishes made from high-quality ingredients.

They use no artificial colours or food additives, and most spices are freshly ground in their kitchen. They offer takeaway and a selection of fantastic cocktails too.

Malton Spice

Malton Spice has been open for over 19 years and is a firm favourite with locals. If you’re after a curry, this is your spot.

They’re an Indian restaurant with vegetarian options and a family-friendly atmosphere.

The Stew and Oyster

A great place to pop in for lunch, dinner, or a few oysters. Set in a beautiful building in the heart of Malton, it is light and airy with plenty of space.

The lamb Tagine is excellent here, and many people reckon it’s the best stew they’ve ever had.

Special Mentions

Florian Poirot Malton

This is a proper French patisserie and café that’s worth visiting if you fancy something a bit different.

Check out my Florian Poirot review here.

The Library Bar

A speakeasy whisky bar in Malton – the address is to be discovered! It’s a hidden gem if you know where to look.

Read about The Library Bar here.

The Stone Trough Inn at Kirkham Abbey

Just outside Malton, this is worth the short trip. Beautiful views and excellent food in a stunning location.

My Stone Trough Inn review.

Tips for Eating Out in Malton

Book ahead – Popular restaurants in Malton get busy, especially at weekends. FortySix, The Talbot, and La Trattoria particularly need booking.

Check opening times – Some Malton restaurants have seasonal opening times, so check before you travel.

Bring the dog – Many places to eat in Malton are dog-friendly. The Talbot, Royal Oak, and various cafés welcome four-legged friends.

Try local produce – Look for restaurants in Malton that highlight local, seasonal ingredients. That’s what makes the food scene here special.

Visit Talbot Yard – Whilst you’re at The Talbot, explore Talbot Yard for artisan food shops and producers.

Attend Malton Food Festival – If you can time your visit with the bi-annual food festival (usually May and September), do it. The town comes alive with food stalls, demonstrations, and tastings.

Explore beyond the high street – Some of the best Malton restaurants are tucked away on side streets. Wander around and you’ll discover hidden gems.

What Makes Malton’s Restaurant Scene Special?

The thing about places to eat in Malton is the genuine focus on quality and local sourcing. These aren’t chain restaurants churning out identical meals – they’re independent businesses run by people passionate about food.

You’ll notice that many restaurants in Malton mention their suppliers by name. They’re proud of using seafood from the Yorkshire coast, meat from local farms, vegetables from nearby growers. This farm-to-fork approach means the food tastes better and supports the local economy.

The atmosphere across Malton’s food scene is welcoming without being pretentious. Yes, the food is excellent, but you don’t feel like you need to dress up or worry about using the wrong fork. It’s Yorkshire hospitality – proper, friendly, and genuine.

My Personal Favourites

If I had to pick my absolute favourite places to eat in Malton:

For a special meal: FortySix – the fish sharing platter is brilliant

For casual dining: The Talbot – love the beer garden and the atmosphere

For coffee and cake: The Patisserie Malton – proper French-style pastries

For pizza: Pizza On The Square – sourdough bases and great beer selection

For lunch: Malton Relish – lovely deli atmosphere and fresh food

But honestly, I haven’t had a bad meal in Malton yet. The standard is consistently high across all the restaurants.

Final Thoughts on Malton Restaurants

Malton has genuinely earned its title as Yorkshire’s food capital. The concentration of quality restaurants in Malton for such a small market town is impressive.

Whether you want fine dining, casual pub food, Italian, Indian, Mexican, or just a brilliant cup of coffee and a cake, you’ll find it here. The fact that so many places focus on local, seasonal ingredients makes the food scene feel cohesive and special.

I’ll keep adding more places to eat in Malton as I visit them – there are still a few I haven’t tried yet!

Have you eaten at any restaurants in Malton? What did you think? Drop a comment and let me know your favourites!

I’ll add more places to eat in Malton as I visit them 🙂 

Related posts:

• The Library Bar – A Speakeasy Whisky Bar In Malton
• The Best Things To Do In Malton, North Yorkshire
• The Best Places To Eat In Malton
• Roost Coffee In Malton
• The Stone Trough Inn
• Baby And Toddler Groups In Malton
• Pizza On The Square By SALT Malton Review
• FortySix Malton Review
• Florian Poirot Malton Review