SPARK is a collection of over ten independent food traders located off Piccadilly where you can explore a range of cuisines from Gujarati street food at Sarras to an authentic grilled Greek meal at SASA. When you and your friends can’t decide where to eat, you can be sure SPARK will have something for everyone!
The venue has a lively bustling atmosphere, the repurposed porter cabins and fairy lights create a great setting to enjoy some street food. It’s easy to order with the QR system, simply scan and the food will arrive at your table. SPARK invited SCENE to try some of the many dishes they have on offer.
Tiro: Catanese and Fries £12
Tiro’s modern spin on Sicilian classics like focaccias and arancini have made it a popular option among York foodies. Their Catanese and Fries was £12, well worth it for the generous portion of chips and two sandwiches. The focaccia itself was soft and paired perfectly with roast ham and sweet Sicilian style chutney. This made for a satisfying meal that I can imagine will be a great lunch option in Summer.
RAD Pizza Shop: Margherita £9.95
RAD Pizza have been based at SPARK for five years perfecting Italian classics like the Marinara and Napoli. Their menu also has exciting options, for instance, the smoky Salsiccia e Provolone and Puttanesca-inspired pizza. We opted for the Margherita for £9.95, although it’s the classic it was still special with a soft crust and rich sauce. RAD sources their ingredients locally and this definitely shone through.
Vovo Latin Grill Kitchen: Bolivia Salchipapa £16.50
Vovo is inspired by Latin American cuisine with each dish celebrating a different country’s culture. They offer classic burrito meals and dishes you probably haven’t tried like Risoles de Queijo, a soft cheese wrapped in thin crispy dough. Vovo is a great stall to explore if you want to try some South American delicacies. SCENE tried the Bolivia Salchipapa £16.50 which includes Toscana sausages, sliced chorizo, and smoky French fries. It’s paired with roast garlic toast and a zesty achiote slaw. The sausages had a great flavour but despite the large portion, there could’ve been more meat for the price. Overall, the meal was enjoyable and hearty!
Herbivorous: Big Kahuna Burger £13
Herbivorous serves entirely plant-based American-inspired comfort food from Philly Cheesesteaks to a classic Mac and Cheese, vegetarians are definitely spoiled for choice! SCENE tried the Big Kahuna Burger which is their own veggie patty topped with teriyaki sauce, seitan bacon, and a pineapple slice. The burger was slightly underwhelming, the meat itself was more plain than some other varieties. Although the description was enticing, the many toppings didn’t feel cohesive. In the past, Herbivorous has produced amazing dishes like their Christmas Dinner Loaded Fries, however, for £13 this burger felt very expensive for what it was (+ no chips!)
Overall, SPARK’s highlight is the flexibility and variety they offer. The informal dining experience is perfect for meeting friends for a quick bite to eat and drink. The price can be rivalled by other restaurants in York so it’s important to consider what stands out to you most.
Many thanks to SPARK for inviting us. Especially Vovo, Herbivorous, TIRO and RAD!