The Fox & Roman

Traditional looking pub from the outside with an oak beam, open brick interior. Not immediately obvious from the outside but is part of the vantage inn group, a chain we’ve had mixed experiences with. However this one was one of the better experiences, with the food being hot, nicely presented and tasty. Prices in line with normal gastro pub fayre. Reasonable portions for both main and dessert. Staff were efficient and friendly. Overall a pleasant dining experience.

Me and my husband ate here with another couple after the races a few weeks ago. We didn’t book but found a table easily, although it did seem to get busier as more people made there way over from the racecourse (and there were a few tables that had been reserved). The menu is varied and mid-​priced, with daily specials in addition. I had the duck noodle salad which was very nice, and everyone else enjoyed their meals. Would happily eat here again next time we’re in York.

This is a large, sprawling pub, formerly the Fox Hotel. The ‘Roman’ connection dates from the discovery of a Roman grave on the site in 1833. The pub used to stable racehorses, and is directly opposite the stables of York Racecourse.
The interior is styled as a country pub, although Dringhouses is actually a suburb of York, these days, and it felt more suburban than villagey in atmosphere. There’s lots of exposed wood and brick fireplaces, and patterned carpet. All very traditional. It’s deceptively large — as you wander, more areas seem to open out in front of you, so we had no trouble finding a seat.
They serve food, and a lot of other customers were eating here. We didn’t sample it, but it looked good, and it arrived quickly. They serve three real ales (Timothy Taylor, Black Sheep and their own brew, which was a very pleasant hoppy bitter — a bit like IPA), which were well kept, and the staff topped my pint up without asking — always a good thing.
One of my friends wanted a Campari and lemonade, though, and they didn’t sell that, nor her second choice of a Bacardi Breezer. The emphasis seemed to be on beer and wine instead, and she made do with a G&T.
Staff seemed friendly and, despite being very busy, they seemed to cope efficiently with the crowd. I’d happily adopt it as my local if I lived in the area.