Sotano, York – 77 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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Sotano -
Sotano -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 77 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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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.
✅ 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.
Reviews
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Perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere and enjoy dancing the night away, this place draws in a fun-loving crowd that embraces the energy. it’s a blast if you’re looking to let loose with friends
By user803964 (York) on Aug 6th 2026
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Crowd energy at sotano keeps the night alive, turning a simple evening into an unforgettable experience.
By user945582 (York) on Jul 30th 2026
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Sotano's cleanliness was a breath of fresh air, a delightful contrast to the usual hangouts I frequent. The music selection was on point, offering enough variety to keep me lingering longer than planned. With such a laid-back atmosphere, I’m eager to return when I need a break from studying.
By user283874 (York) on Jul 25th 2026
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Weekends can get a bit busy here, but the mix of students and locals is worth the wait. This place is a solid choice if you're looking for an interesting night out, as the vibrant crowd keeps everything lively and engaging.
By user176696 (York) on Jul 20th 2026
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Always a good time at this place, especially with the laid-back crowd it attracts. Music's good enough to keep the energy up, and the drinks prices don’t hit your wallet too hard. Wouldn't hesitate to come back, as meeting up with friends here feels like a reliable choice on a midweek night out.
By user334036 (York) on Jul 15th 2026
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Music really sets the mood here, and I found myself moving to the beat without even realizing it. The crowd was a mix of locals and students, creating a lively atmosphere that felt welcoming. I'd be keen to return just to soak in the energy again, especially after experiencing how much care the staff put into making the night enjoyable.
By user369993 (York) on Jul 10th 2026
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Often it feels like time stands still here, especially late at night when the music is deep and the crowd is just right.
By user227640 (York) on Jul 5th 2026
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A small attention to detail really stood out to me here. when the staff took the time to clean the tables regularly, it made the space feel more inviting and kept the energy up throughout the night.
By user701569 (York) on Jun 29th 2026
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I was really impressed by how clean this place is, especially given its lively atmosphere. The crowd didn't make it feel packed, and the music struck a perfect balance—energetic without being too loud.
By user539985 (York) on Jun 24th 2026
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The music at Sotano is seriously infectious, syncing perfectly with the vibrant atmosphere. I found myself laughing with new friends while enjoying a round of drinks, completely caught up in the energy that feels worlds apart from back home.
By user553706 (York) on Jun 18th 2026
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Attention to cleanliness makes a noticeable difference here. it feels like the staff genuinely care about maintaining a tidy environment, which is refreshing for a place like this. you can tell they want everyone to enjoy their time without worrying about messes everywhere.
By user830437 (York) on Jun 13th 2026
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Midweek outings at Sotano are a real treat. The place has an atmosphere that makes you want to kick back and enjoy yourself, thanks to how they seem to genuinely care about everyone having a good time. It's a spot that can easily become a favorite for a relaxed evening.
By user301140 (York) on Jun 8th 2026
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Music echoes off the walls here, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and chatter. People gather in small groups, with some dancing and others engaged in relaxed conversations that invite you to keep moving through the crowd. The staff behind the bar are quick and attentive, adding to the casual and laid-back vibe that feels refreshing after a long week.
By user929873 (York) on Jun 3rd 2026
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Meeting up with friends after class or rehearsals here is such a good way to relax. It's like a little haven where conversations just flow naturally. The atmosphere is welcoming, and there's always a sense of ease in the air. I love how effortlessly chill it feels, making it a regular spot for us.
By user767959 (York) on May 26th 2026
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Finding a place that won’t empty my wallet has been tricky, but here it hits the mark. Drinks are reasonably priced, and I left feeling like I got my money's worth, especially compared to some spots back home where you'd spend a fortune for less fun. It’s refreshing to enjoy a night out without stressing over the bill, which makes for a more relaxed experience.
By user169126 (York) on May 20th 2026
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Given how many nights i've spent here, the atmosphere hasn’t really lost its charm. it’s a solid place for a fun time, with a crowd that knows how to enjoy themselves without causing a mess.
By user933133 (York) on May 12th 2026
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Feels like a spot where people genuinely care, creating a warm atmosphere among the crowd.
By user879790 (York) on May 7th 2026
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Sotano has a dimly lit interior with art-lined walls, offering more of a chill lounge atmosphere than your typical bar. I really liked how the laid-back crowd made it easy to have a conversation without needing to shout over loud music. 😊
By user538414 (York) on May 1st 2026
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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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Apr 13th 2026
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You really get the best of both worlds here, where energetic nights meet a relaxed vibe. I appreciated how we could dive into meaningful conversations without sacrificing that fun party atmosphere—everyone was on the same chill yet lively wavelength. 🌟
By user811967 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Mar 24th 2026
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Sotano's Mediterranean vibes really make it special! It's the perfect mix of a friendly atmosphere where students feel at ease.
By user908011 (York) 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 (York) on Mar 16th 2026
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Sotano really has a chilled vibe, drawing in some great company. The lively yet laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind after a morning training session. I can see myself returning to soak in that ambiance again.
By user787662 (York) 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 (York) on Mar 9th 2026
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The mix of students and locals here really caught me off guard. It creates a unique and laid-back atmosphere that's refreshingly different. 😊
By user804963 (York) on Mar 8th 2026
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Sotano has become my little escape from the endless cycle of reading lists and essays during the week. It has just the right amount of student buzz to make it lively while still maintaining that soothing Mediterranean charm. I always leave feeling refreshed and ready to tackle my workload again.
By user504886 (York) on Mar 7th 2026
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It feels like a hidden Mediterranean retreat in the middle of York, providing a nice escape from the stress of the week. The warm lighting and lively chatter create an atmosphere that makes you feel part of something special.
By user652960 (York) on Mar 6th 2026
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Sotano is where the Mediterranean charm really shines through! The lively crowd and music create such a vibrant atmosphere, it's impossible not to get swept up in the fun. 🌟
By user950564 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Feb 26th 2026
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Unwinding with friends after a long day of studying is easy at Sotano. The atmosphere is genuine and unhurried, allowing you to truly enjoy your time without any pressure. 😊
By user600988 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Feb 19th 2026
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For those who want a vibrant atmosphere that's a bit different from the usual student spots, this place really delivers. With its Mediterranean charm and a diverse crowd, the energy is always high while still keeping things chill. It’s definitely a fantastic option if you want to shake up your evenings away from the typical York pub experience.
By user441719 (York) 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 (York) on Feb 17th 2026
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After just a few trips to Sotano, it quickly became my favorite hangout spot, and I totally get why! The atmosphere feels like such a cozy change from all those chain places. It’s really inviting and the perfect escape after a long week of lectures. Being there honestly makes me feel like I’m at home away from home. 😊
By user837566 (York) on Feb 16th 2026
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It might take a couple of visits to really get into the cozy atmosphere here, but once you do, it's hard to stay away.
By user138126 (York) on Feb 15th 2026
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A mate mentioned this place has an irresistible combination of chill and energy, so I popped in for what I thought would be just a couple of hours. Ended up lingering much longer than planned and left feeling completely uplifted. Definitely a spot worth returning to! 😊
By user186214 (York) 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 (York) on Feb 13th 2026
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Sotano has a laid-back vibe that makes it a comfortable spot to hang out. The staff seem genuinely into their roles, contributing to the relaxed atmosphere. It's a place where you can unwind without any fuss. 😊
By user199263 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Jan 27th 2026
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Once term kicked off, I found myself visiting this place more regularly. Initially unsure, the casual atmosphere quickly won me over. Now it feels like a familiar hangout where I always fit in.
By user781651 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Jan 15th 2026
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Sotano is packed full of students, which ramps up the energy everywhere you look. The atmosphere is buzzing, not just from the mix of tapas and chatter, but from the crowd itself. If you're expecting lively, it’s even more vibrant than that with people filling every available space.
By user528579 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Jan 3rd 2026
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Finding this place in the heart of York felt like a delightful surprise. The atmosphere here is lively yet pleasantly mellow, making it feel like a spontaneous gem in the bustling city.
By user330583 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Dec 21st 2025
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If you're looking for a spot that combines a Mediterranean tapas vibe with a laid-back, student-friendly setting, Sotano is the place to be. It's one of the few spots in York where you can unwind without feeling crowded, making it perfect for a relaxing hangout with friends. The music adds to the easygoing atmosphere, creating an ideal backdrop for just chilling out.
By user924837 (York) 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 (York) on Dec 12th 2025
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It really stands out from typical pubs with its vibrant charm and relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for when I want to unwind and enjoy a laid-back escape. 🌞
By user450439 (York) on Dec 5th 2025
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Expected total chaos but it turned out a relaxed and cozy spot to unwind.
By user289176 (York) on Dec 1st 2025
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You won’t find many places in York that match the lively vibe here. It has a unique character and ambiance that really sets it apart from the usual pub scene. If you're looking to mix things up, it's definitely a solid choice for a different kind of night out.
By user449956 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Nov 9th 2025
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Spending a Saturday here after a long hospital shift has turned into a fun ritual. This place's laid-back vibe and lively crowd always lift my spirits. With plenty of students mingling around, it feels like the perfect balance of comfort and excitement, making it an ideal spot for a weekend chill-out.
By user683912 (York) 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 (York) 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 (York) on Oct 24th 2025
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Sotano absolutely blew me away with its lively vibe, even on a weekday! As someone who tends to be a bit reserved, I found the atmosphere to be incredibly inviting and easy to enjoy. It was bustling, yet I could still hear conversations clearly, which made my visit really enjoyable.
By user676775 (York) 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 (York) on Oct 17th 2025
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During freshers week, I found Sotano to be the ideal spot to relax after a day of classes. It's great how lively it becomes with other students around, creating an atmosphere that keeps me coming back.
By user203561 (York) on Oct 13th 2025
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I thought this place would be just another bar, but it definitely stands out. The vibe here is more inviting than I expected, and it's the kind of spot where you instantly feel at home. With a mix of music and friendly chatter, there's a unique charm that keeps drawing me back. 😊
By user181580 (York) 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 (York) on Oct 5th 2025
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The vibrant energy here really exceeded my expectations. While I'm usually focused on the food, the lively crowd and atmosphere took me by surprise. Just sitting and chatting turned a laid-back evening into a memorable experience. 😊
By user194914 (York) on Sep 29th 2025
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Drawn in by the lively tunes, I found myself spending an evening here that turned out to be unexpectedly delightful. The mix of vibrant conversations and the relaxed ambiance was just right, making it a spot I could see myself returning to often. Made some interesting connections at the bar, and it feels like my new go-to for a laid-back yet engaging night out.
By user825094 (York) 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 (York) on Sep 14th 2025
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Review published! ✓