Skipton has a wide choice of pubs, bars and restaurants that are frequented by locals and tourists alike but with so many to choose from how do you decide where to go?

Having lived in Skipton all my life (31 years) and with a tummy that never stops rumbling I thought I’d share my top 5 Skipton Restaurants’ with you………

Number Five – Sam Houston’s, Water Street, Skipton

Sam’s back was the message earlier this year and yes he’s back with a bang! Sam Houston’s opened its doors over 20 years ago bringing Tex Mex to the Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. Sam’s re-opened under new management earlier this year and pride themselves on serving fresh, affordable Mexican food in traditional surroundings.

20 years on it’s fiesta time again in Sunny Skipton!

Number Four – Emporio Italia, Mill Bridge, Skipton

A new addition to the Skipton scene this summer, Emporio Italia is a great place for evening meals as well as a tasty lunch. It aims to build on the solid reputation already established by their sister restaurant in nearby town Ilkley. The place is authentic Italian throughout, from the background music to the red neckerchiefs worn by the chefs and the dried provisions for sale on shelves. The food is delicious, but it tastes twice as good because of the staff’s abundant enthusiasm!

Lunch of Pizza or Pasta is around £6. Dinner offers early bird menu, Pizza / Pasta or more individual options from £7 upwards.

At Emporio Italia you really could be on a gondola in Venice!

Number Three – Nosh, Newmarket Street, Skipton

Following the move from Devonshire Place to its current location within the Boutique 25 restaurant (in my former dentists) it brings back (not so happy) memories of my childhood! One glimpse of the stylish decor and a couple of pre-meal cocktails in 25 below, the in-house cocktail and champagne bar, remove all fears! Serving excellent, well presented fresh food and deliciously sweet desserts (not sure my dentist would approve)

Number Two – Aeolos, Cavendish Street, Skipton

I visited this place for the first time only three weeks ago! Situated away from the High Street (formally No1) this place is sometimes overlooked by hungry diners but it’s certainly a place I wouldn’t forget in a hurry!

The old Victorian building has been decorated sympathetically with pergolas, vines and grapes but still keeps all its beautiful grand house features. As Skipton’s only greek restaurant, complete with dancing and traditional plate smashing, this place really comes alive.

The Meze is certainly not for the faint hearted but highly recommended!

Number One – Canalside, Coach Street, Skipton

Formally the Waterfront Nightclub and previously “The Barge” (before my time!) the Canalside is set in one of Skipton’s landmark buildings. It offers fresh, home cooked fare in a wonderful picturesque location on the banks of the Leeds – Liverpool Canal.

With an excellent Sunday Lunch for friends coupled with great value “early bird” deals,The Canalside is my number one choice when eating out in Skipton!

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