What Is The Best Casual Dining In Yorkshire? Cedarbarn Farm Shop Wins Top Tourism Award

Ever been on a day out and just wanted some really good grub without all the faff? You know, a place where the food is brilliant, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you don't have to whisper? Well, it turns out the team at a certain North Yorkshire spot have got it absolutely spot on. The folks at Pickering's Cedarbarn Café are probably still walking on air after bagging a huge regional award this week, proving they're the kings and queens of casual dining.

What makes a winner?

The team at Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café are celebrating, and for good reason. They've just won the ‘Best Casual Dining’ category at the Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards, which is a pretty big deal in the world of Yorkshire tourism. These annual awards are all about shouting from the rooftops about the brilliant businesses that make Yorkshire such a top place to visit. The casual dining award isn't just about fancy plates; it’s about the whole package – amazing food, friendly service, and a vibe that makes you want to stay all afternoon. Think of it as the opposite of those stuffy restaurants where you're scared to drop your fork.

Co-founder Mandy Avison put it perfectly. She said:

“The Casual Dining award celebrates informal dining venues that offer excellent food quality, service and atmosphere. We’re over the moon that the work of head chef, Mike, café manager, Louise and their teams have been rewarded with this prestigious award.”

It’s clear this win is a massive team effort. It’s a huge pat on the back for head chef Mike Brown, who must be a genius in the kitchen, and café manager Louise, who keeps everything running like clockwork. The success is also shared with team members like Charlotte Yates and Shaun Dowson, who are part of the crew making the magic happen every day. This kind of dining award recognises the hard work that goes on behind the scenes, from the kitchen to the front of house.

The competition was fierce

Winning this award wasn't a walk in the park. The team at Cedarbarn were up against some serious heavyweights in the Yorkshire dining scene. Let’s be honest, the food scene in Yorkshire is booming, so to come out on top is a massive achievement. The competition for this particular tourism award was incredibly strong. Imagine being on a list with these amazing places:

• Bundobust: Famous for its incredible Indian street food and craft beer.
• Yorkshire Sculpture Park: A place where you can see amazing art and also grab some top-quality food.
• Elsworth at the Mill: A much-talked-about restaurant with a reputation for fantastic food.
• The Old Liquor Store Restaurant & Bar: A stylish spot known for its delicious offerings.

To beat all of them shows that Cedarbarn is doing something really special. It’s not just a café; it’s a destination. This regional award from the prestigious Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards solidifies its place on the map for anyone looking for a brilliant meal out in Pickering. After a win like this, Mandy Avison will likely be busy with requests for an interview or two!

From a caravan to a top award

The story of Cedarbarn is the kind of thing you’d see on a feel-good TV show. It didn't start as a massive, award-winning venue. Actually, it began its life way back in 1995 as a PYO business – that’s ‘pick your own’ – run from a humble caravan. Imagine that! From selling freshly picked fruit from a caravan to becoming a beacon of Yorkshire tourism and dining. It’s quite the journey. This evolution from a simple PYO business into a major attraction is a real testament to the vision of its founders.

Today, Cedarbarn is a whole lot more than a caravan. It's home to a bustling 80-seater café, a thriving farm shop packed with local goodies, and, get this, a 600m miniature railway. Yes, a miniature railway! It’s the kind of place you can take the whole family for a day out. The farm shop aspect is a huge part of its charm, connecting the amazing food in the café directly to the land. You can taste the freshness. The journey from a small enterprise to a regional award winner is inspiring and shows what hard work and a great idea can achieve.

A big night for Yorkshire tourism

The award itself was handed over at a fancy dinner in Leeds on 1st December. It was a night for celebrating all the businesses that make tourism in Yorkshire so vibrant. Winning this award isn't just about a nice trophy for the shelf; it puts Cedarbarn firmly in the spotlight. It tells people from all over that if they're in Pickering, there's a place they absolutely have to visit for some outstanding casual dining.

For co-founder Mandy Avison, head chef Mike, manager Louise, and the rest of the team including Charlotte Yates and Shaun Dowson, this recognition is huge. It validates all their hard work and passion. This award from the Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards helps shine a light on the incredible food and drink scene outside of the big cities. Even their partners who help spread the word, like the team at three60 marketing, must be incredibly proud of this achievement. It's a win for Cedarbarn, a win for Pickering, and a win for anyone who loves good, honest, and delicious food. It’s a brilliant end to the year for the whole Cedarbarn family.