Sotano, York – 59 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Sotano -

Cleanliness
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Smoking

Based on 59 user ratings

1 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Sotano is an independent bar and restaurant located in the heart of York, making it a popular spot for students from the nearby University of York. This venue combines the charm of a Mediterranean tapas bar with a vibrant atmosphere suitable for a relaxed night out. Known for its classically-inspired cocktails and authentic tapas, Sotano offers a unique dining experience that appeals to a diverse student crowd. The ambiance is described as laid-back yet lively, making it an ideal place to unwind after a long day of classes or to kick off an evening with friends.

The atmosphere at Sotano is one of its standout features. Students frequently mention the chill vibes and the positive energy that fills the space. The music is carefully curated, enhancing the overall experience without overpowering conversations. Many reviews highlight that the music is just the right volume, allowing for easy chatting while still providing a fun backdrop. This balance makes Sotano a great choice for students who want to socialize without the intensity that often comes with busier nightlife spots.

One of the aspects that students appreciate about Sotano is its reasonable drink prices. While some reviews indicate that the drinks may not be the fanciest, they are fairly priced, which is a significant plus for students on a budget. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including classically-inspired cocktails that add a touch of sophistication to the experience. Students often find themselves enjoying the drink deals available, making it a solid choice for a night out without breaking the bank.

The crowd at Sotano is another appealing factor. The venue attracts a diverse mix of patrons, which contributes to a lively yet comfortable environment. Many students enjoy the blend of personalities and backgrounds, making it a fun place to meet new people and socialize. The reviews suggest that the crowd is generally chill and friendly, which enhances the overall experience. It’s not uncommon for students to describe their nights at Sotano as some of the best, thanks to the enjoyable mix of people and the relaxed atmosphere.

When it comes to busy times, Sotano tends to fill up, especially during weekends. However, students have noted that the queue moves quickly, which is a significant advantage. This efficiency means that you won’t have to wait long to get inside and start enjoying your night. The venue is popular among students, but it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly packed, allowing for a comfortable experience even during busier nights.

What sets Sotano apart from other bars is its unique combination of a restaurant and a bar atmosphere. Many students appreciate the option to enjoy a meal alongside their drinks, particularly the Mediterranean tapas that are well-reviewed. This aspect makes it a versatile spot, suitable for everything from casual dining to a lively night out with friends. The laid-back vibe ensures that you can take your time, whether you’re just grabbing a drink or enjoying a full meal.

However, it’s worth noting that Sotano may not be the most thrilling option for those seeking a high-energy nightlife experience. Some reviews indicate that while the atmosphere is enjoyable, it doesn’t reach the intensity of larger clubs or bars in the area. For students looking for a more dynamic scene, this might be a consideration. That said, many appreciate the laid-back nature of the venue, which allows for a more relaxed night out.

In summary, Sotano is a great choice for students who enjoy a chill bar and restaurant experience. It suits those looking for a place to unwind with friends, have some good food, and enjoy a relaxed night out. The combination of reasonable drink prices, a friendly crowd, and a pleasant atmosphere makes it a solid pick for students at the University of York. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning a longer evening with friends, Sotano provides a welcoming environment to kick back and enjoy the night.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Chill atmosphere with a relaxed crowd, perfect for socializing.
  • Reasonable drink prices, making it budget-friendly for students.
  • Diverse mix of patrons, creating an enjoyable social environment.
  • Good music selection that complements conversations without being overpowering.
  • Quick-moving queues, allowing for efficient entry on busy nights.
  • Unique offering of Mediterranean tapas alongside drinks.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Not the most thrilling option for those seeking high-energy nightlife.
  • Can get busy during peak times, though queues are manageable.
  • Drinks may not be the fanciest available in York.
  • Some students feel it can be too laid-back for a lively night out.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill spot to relax with friends and enjoy good food and drinks.

💡 Things to Know

  • Expect a diverse crowd, making it a great place to meet new people.
  • The music is curated to enhance conversations, perfect for socializing.
  • Sotano offers a mix of dining and drinking, ideal for a full evening experience.
  • Check out their tapas menu for a unique dining option while you drink.
  • Weekends can be busy, but the quick-moving queue helps you get in faster.

❓ Common Questions

What is Sotano like?

Sotano is an independent bar and restaurant known for its Mediterranean tapas and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for students looking to unwind.

Is it good value?

Yes, many students find the drink prices reasonable, making it a budget-friendly choice for a night out.

When do students go to Sotano?

Students typically visit Sotano during weekends, especially in the evenings, when the atmosphere is lively but still relaxed.

What kind of crowd does Sotano attract?

Sotano attracts a diverse mix of students and locals, creating a friendly and enjoyable environment.

What type of music is played at Sotano?

The music at Sotano is well-curated, providing a good backdrop for conversation without being too loud.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
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You’ll find it to be a fun place to unwind, especially with its laid-back crowd. The music keeps the energy up, and I loved how diverse the people were; everyone seemed to be there to enjoy themselves. Staff are pretty welcoming too, which definitely adds to the overall experience you get while out.
By user450836 on Apr 25th 2026
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Sat in the corner and got swept up by the music, which was a perfect mix of chilled and lively. it's nice how the place makes you feel like you're on holiday, even though it's just in york. the tapas were great to share and didn’t hurt the student budget at all.
By user988575 on Apr 19th 2026
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Expected the usual noisy bar, but found a surprisingly intimate spot with cozy lighting. even on a busy night, staff were super quick and kept the atmosphere relaxed without any of the fuss.
By user870263 on Apr 13th 2026
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Sotano's got this fantastic way of balancing lively nights with a laid-back feel. i loved how we could actually have a proper chat without losing the party vibe , it felt like everyone was on the same chill yet energetic wave.
By user811967 on Apr 10th 2026
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Sotano's right in the middle of everything, so it’s my go-to after weekend shifts, with its great atmosphere and student-friendly prices.
By user329882 on Apr 1st 2026
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At its peak, the atmosphere just feels like everyone's in on a secret party vibe. nothing pretentious, just people enjoying themselves and the energy is genuinely infectious.
By user404120 on Mar 31st 2026
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Sotano's music scene perfectly blends with the lively atmosphere, making it hard not to enjoy yourself. there's a certain energy that's infectious, and the staff seem effortlessly friendly. honestly, the whole evening kind of blurs into one memorable experience.
By user467398 on Mar 27th 2026
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Fit Sotano into my routine about once a week for a laid-back dinner and drinks. it’s ideal when we want a spot that's lively but not overwhelming 😎 🌟
By user114216 on Mar 24th 2026
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Sotano stands out with its Mediterranean vibes mixed with a lively yet laid-back student-friendly atmosphere.
By user908011 on Mar 19th 2026
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Heard a lot about sotano being a lively spot, but it was way more chill than i anticipated, which was refreshing. the chilled out vibe made it ideal for unwinding without the usual chaos of student bars.
By user869868 on Mar 16th 2026
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Might pop back to sotano for the chilled vibe and some good company. it's got that lively yet laid-back feel that makes it ideal for unwinding after a morning training session.
By user787662 on Mar 11th 2026
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Found a surprising sense of community at sotano with its mix of students and locals. good spot for unwinding after seminars 😅
By user697028 on Mar 9th 2026
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Didn't expect to find such a diverse crowd here. students mix with locals and it creates a unique and laid-back atmosphere that's really refreshing
By user804963 on Mar 8th 2026
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Midweek trip to Sotano has become a little ritual, a chance to pretend i'm not drowning in reading lists and essays for just a bit. it’s buzzing enough with students to feel lively but never too packed to lose that laid-back Mediterranean charm that's quite soothing.
By user504886 on Mar 7th 2026
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Stepping into Sotano feels like entering a hidden Mediterranean retreat right in the middle of York, instantly washing away the stress of the week. the mix of warm lighting and lively chatter made me feel like I was part of something special from the moment I walked through the door.
By user652960 on Mar 6th 2026
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Music sets the mood at sotano, naturally drawing students in for a bit of fun. expect a lively crowd and a hint of that mediterranean charm woven into the atmosphere.
By user950564 on Mar 5th 2026
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Felt like a proper weekend vibe when the music was just loud enough to buzz through us.
By user180808 on Mar 4th 2026
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Getting used to the dim lighting and energetic vibe at sotano took a minute but it's grown on me.
By user522521 on Feb 26th 2026
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Sotano just clicks for a mellow hangout with friends,it's got this warm vibe that's just right after hours spent staring at textbooks. it never feels rushed, just genuine and easygoing, so you can really savor the time without any pretension.
By user600988 on Feb 25th 2026
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Stumbled upon a Latin dance night at Sotano and it was such a surprise. i usually just go for the tapas and chill vibe, but that night, the energy was electric and everyone was moving to the beat 🎉. hadn't planned on dancing much, but it turned out to be an unexpected highlight of my week.
By user998023 on Feb 24th 2026
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Felt like i stumbled into a pocket of warmth and laid-back vibes. walking in, you're wrapped with lively chatter and the sort of relaxed mood that keeps you lingering. ideal place to unwind with mates after a day of lectures.
By user542043 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Went to sotano last night and it was amazing. the tapas vibe is perfect for just chilling and trying different things. told my mates they have to check it out next weekend.
By user462595 on Feb 20th 2026
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Stopping by sotano for a quick bite before heading to study sessions is something I really look forward to.
By user485415 on Feb 19th 2026
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Sotano stands out with its unique blend of Mediterranean charm and lively atmosphere, a combination that feels different from your average pub in york. it's great for nights when you're not in the mood for the usual student hangouts but still want a place with energy. the crowd is a mix, which keeps evenings interesting without losing that laid-back feel.
By user441719 on Feb 18th 2026
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Noticed lots of students from different courses catching up over drinks, which was quite nice.
By user900551 on Feb 17th 2026
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Started coming here with some mates, and honestly, it didn't take long to feel at home. it's got that welcoming vibe you look forward to after a week of lectures, not the cold formality of a typical chain venue.
By user837566 on Feb 16th 2026
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Takes a few visits to appreciate the cozy vibe, but then you're hooked.
By user138126 on Feb 15th 2026
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Heard from a mate that sotano has this unique mix of chill and buzz that makes it hard to leave. went for a couple of hours, but stayed way past and felt totally uplifted on the walk back.
By user186214 on Feb 14th 2026
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Noticed how the music here subtly shifts as the night goes on, keeping the energy up without ever feeling intrusive. really helped make our chatter and laughter feel even more animated.
By user894300 on Feb 13th 2026
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Staff here are super chill and add to the friendly vibe. feels like they're really into what they do, not just clocking in
By user199263 on Feb 9th 2026
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Staff are a notch above the rest in york, always ensuring the best service with genuine smiles.
By user602807 on Feb 2nd 2026
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Friendly atmosphere made the evening just right, with everyone seeming to be in a good mood. the prices won’t scare your wallet, which is perfect when you're counting every penny as a student.
By user796899 on Jan 27th 2026
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Found myself dropping by Sotano more often once term started. initially didn't know what to expect, but the laid-back vibe eased me into it. now it's become this familiar go-to spot where I don't feel out of place anymore.
By user781651 on Jan 22nd 2026
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Sometimes Sotano can get a bit too crowded, making it hard to find a seat. i love the atmosphere, but when there's barely any space to move around, it slightly dims the experience. hope they expand the seating area soon because it really deserves it 🌟
By user216740 on Jan 19th 2026
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Never had trouble finding a spot to sit, even on a busy Saturday night. that's rare in most places near campus and makes arranging spontaneous hangouts way easier
By user888909 on Jan 15th 2026
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Heard a lot about the lively energy at sotano, and it didn't disappoint. expected a lively vibe, but it felt even more spirited with students filling every corner. the mix of tapas and chatter creates a proper buzzing atmosphere that’s contagious.
By user528579 on Jan 11th 2026
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Would definitely come back to sotano for the lively atmosphere and friendly crowd. it's got that laid-back vibe that makes you feel comfortable, and it's a good spot to unwind after a morning training session.
By user836560 on Jan 8th 2026
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Service here can be a bit slow when it's packed, especially on the weekends 😬. it's a shame because the staff are lovely and the atmosphere is usually spot on.
By user702595 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Walking into Sotano, i was surprised by how it felt like i'd stumbled into a hidden nook despite being right in the middle of York. the energy was lively but not overwhelming, making it feel like a spontaneous discovery in the bustling city.
By user330583 on Dec 30th 2025
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Noticed groups of students mingling effortlessly, giving the place an easygoing, friendly vibe that made me feel right at home.
By user502034 on Dec 25th 2025
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Being in the heart of york, sotano has this unique charm that's perfect for a relaxed evening.
By user249359 on Dec 21st 2025
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Sotano stands out because it blends the feel of a mediterranean tapas bar with a buzzing, student-friendly vibe. unlike some other places in york, you can feel genuinely relaxed here without the usual crowded chaos 😅. the combo of good music and easygoing atmosphere makes it ideal for chilling with mates.
By user924837 on Dec 17th 2025
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Could use a bit more seating as it gets pretty packed during peak hours. found myself awkwardly standing with my drink for a while, but the atmosphere makes it worth the wait.
By user585968 on Dec 12th 2025
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Sotano's lively Mediterranean vibe sets it apart from the usual pubs, making it ideal for a laid-back escape.
By user450439 on Dec 5th 2025
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Expected total chaos but it turned out a relaxed and cozy spot to unwind.
By user289176 on Dec 1st 2025
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Offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean vibes and a lively student hangout that's hard to find elsewhere in York. sotano's unique character and ambiance make it stand out from your typical pub scene, a real go-to for mixing it up.
By user449956 on Nov 27th 2025
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Sotano's tapas might be the focus, but it was the cheerful buzz and packed tables that really set the scene for a memorable hangout. sitting there, listening to the chatter and clinking glasses, it felt like everyone just clicked into place, no rush.
By user486618 on Nov 22nd 2025
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Staff here treat you like an old friend, even if it’s your first visit. it’s one of those places where you feel instantly welcome and comfortable. loved the mix of students and locals, made for some interesting conversations.
By user840889 on Nov 16th 2025
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Noticed how they’ve got this cool little nook with seats that make for perfect people-watching. it's such a brilliant touch if you’re into observing York’s mix of characters.
By user821825 on Nov 9th 2025
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Popping by on a saturday after a shift at the hospital has become a bit of a tradition. sotano’s laid-back vibe and lively crowd always put me in a good mood. with loads of students mingling, it feels just the right mix of familiarity and spontaneity, making it an easy choice for a weekend wind down.
By user683912 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Didn't expect to find such good music here, but the live bands are surprisingly impressive and add so much energy to the night. ended up staying way later than planned because it was just too much fun to leave.
By user516092 on Oct 27th 2025
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Sotano’s definitely has a more chill vibe compared to other spots i’ve visited in york. it feels less pretentious, and you don’t have to shout over loud music to have a conversation. i’d choose it over the more packed places, especially if you’re not in the mood for queues.
By user154241 on Oct 24th 2025
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Didn't expect it to feel so lively on a random weekday. as a quieter person, i usually shy away from packed venues, but the energy was infectious. even when it's busy, it’s still easy to hear conversations and enjoy the company.
By user676775 on Oct 20th 2025
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Popping into sotano is a regular part of my week. it's got the lively buzz that's perfect for unwinding without cutting into early morning training sessions
By user167959 on Oct 17th 2025
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Stumbled upon sotano during freshers week and it instantly felt like the perfect place to unwind after classes. love how the mediterranean vibe just flows through the place, making it feel so light and relaxed. the buzz from other students adds a lively touch that just keeps drawing me back.
By user203561 on Oct 13th 2025
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Expected this place to be just another bar, but it really surprised me. the atmosphere is much more vibrant and welcoming than I anticipated, with a nice blend of music and chatter. there's an undeniable charm here that makes you want to come back again and again.
By user181580 on Oct 10th 2025
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Ducked into sotano after rehearsals and instantly felt like I'd strolled into a lively Mediterranean escape. ran into some coursemates unexpectedly, which turned into an impromptu tapas-sharing frenzy and a lot of laughter. the warm glow of the place mixed with the chatter of familiar voices made it one of those nights you'd want to bottle up and keep.
By user144855 on Oct 5th 2025
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Was expecting a typical bar experience, but this place was full of unexpected vibrant energy. usually, i'm all about the food, but here the buzz and the lively crowd made my night. even just sitting and chatting felt special, way beyond what i'd imagined for a chill evening out.
By user194914 on Sep 29th 2025
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Stumbled into sotano one evening, drawn in by the music seeping out into the street. was not expecting the mix of laid-back vibes with a buzz of lively conversations that made it feel both relaxed and engaging. ended up chatting with some interesting folks at the bar and it might've just become one of my go-tos for a chill night out.
By user825094 on Sep 24th 2025
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Noticed there's a small corner near the entrance where radio tunes play softly under the chatter, which really sets a chill vibe. felt strangely comforting, like being in a familiar space even though i'm still new to york. makes me want to visit more, maybe i'll start recognizing some of the regulars soon.
By user665937 on Sep 14th 2025