Malton is known as ‘Yorkshire’s Food Capital’, so we thought we should check out the quaint market town to see what’s on offer.
I don’t live too far from Malton, around 15 miles away and I visit quite regularly. However, I didn’t realise how little I knew about it until I went on a proper tour of the town, taking in a tantalising food tour of Malton.
The team at Visit Malton organise regular food tours of the town, showcasing all it has to offer. Visitors will sample different eateries, meet local food producers, and learn about the rich food and drink heritage.
The Cook’s Place
My first stop was The Cook’s Place, located on Green Man’s Alley. The cookery school is run by Gilly, who is extremely knowledgeable about Malton’s artisan produce, and an excellent cook.
Along with another six journalists, I was tasked with making Yorkshire Puddings. All the ingredients were laid out before us and we were given instructions and off we went. After a few giggles, a cup of spilt milk, and a lot of whisking, we somehow produced some outstanding Yorkies!
Mark, our guide from Visit Malton was at The Cook’s Place to give us an insight into Malton’s very own Roost Coffee Roasters. We tried some of Roost’s coffee, and even as a non-coffee drinker I could appreciate the quality of the roast.
It was time to go on a tour of the town. Firstly, we visited a rather large mural that overlooks Market Place, to see a traditional Yorkshire Pudding recipe. It’s a such great place to start the tour, especially after making our own Yorkshire puds.
Secondly, from the mural we headed to a lovely restaurant called Forty Six, where we met the head chef/owner, Oli who talked us through his signature dishes. We were then treated to Sticky Chicken of which, they sold 140 kgs at the famous Malton Food Festival! Oli, also let us try his white chocolate pumpkin spiced dessert. He owns Forty Six along with his partner Gemma, their restaurant has been open for just under a year.
Food Tour Of Malton
Our next port was The Deli of Malton, where we took the opportunity to sample some outstanding cheeses from the Yorkshire region. Both Ruby Crumble and Duke of Wellington cheeses from Cryer & Stott of Allerton Bywater were part of the tasting experience.
Walking across the town we went to McMillan’s of Malton where we had the choice of trying ‘ wee dram’ of Yorkshire whisky, Yorkshire rum, or Yorkshire liqueur (similar to Baileys). I sampled the Yorkshire liqueur, which was deliciously creamy and warming, perfect for a cold November day.
Moreover, we had a brief insight to the world of whisky by the proprietor of McMillan’s, Jim. A door opened and we ventured upstairs to their Speakeasy, The Library Bar, a fantastic hidden gem for all whisky lovers. Furthermore, Jim’s son James explained that the speakeasy comes alive at the weekend with music and drinkers.
The Purple Carrot was our next 2-minute stop. This little takeaway is vegan and is a hit with locals and tourists who travel specifically for their amazing salads and tasty tray bakes.
A Tantalising Food Tour Of Malton
We walked to the bottom of Malton, alongside the River Derwent, and arrived at the Yorkshire Pudding Beer Brewery. Yes, a real-life brewery dedicated to the world-famous flavours of a Yorkshire Pudding. Additionally, the beer is produced in Malton along with a partner brewery in Cropton, the bottled beer is sold to local farm shops, delis, restaurants, and even ALDI.
Talbot Yard
I had to dash off at this point, but the rest of the journalists finished the afternoon at Talbot Yard Food Court, Malton’s renowned food hub. Packed with artisan producers, local butcher and baker, Roost Espresso Bar, gin distillery, French macaron patisserie, and even a Gelato shop.
Most visitors to Malton make a point of spending some time at Talbot Yard, as it’s an excellent courtyard dedicated to all things produced in Malton.
Check out Visit Malton for more information about their foodie tours, the monthly markets, the food festivals and so much more.
Words by Rachel McAlley
