Gio’s Italian Diner York, a Hidden Gem on the A1079!

Gio’s Italian Diner York – We visited Gio’s on the A1079 Hull Road between York and Pocklington a little while ago (it’s very close to the Thai restaurant).  I wrote this review at the time, but never published as I had a camera failure and didn’t get any pictures.  I have been meaning to return ever since because a) I need to get more pictures and b) I absolutely loved it there.  Anyway, I’ll update with photos when I can.  In the meantime, here is what I thought:

I have been meaning to visit since it opened, and boy, have I been missing out!

Gio’s Italian Diner York

It’s a little unprepossessing if you are just driving past as it’s operated from what looks like a converted shipping container, but as you approach the door, you can see already that you will be made welcome. Inside is a cosy world of checked table cloths and fairy lights. The aromas coming from the open kitchen are to die for and the food definitely lives up to the delicious scents!

The best Garlic Bread

We ordered an antipasti dish of warm salad with continental meats and Mediterranean vegetables as a shared starter. Then we also shared a cheesy garlic bread. Can I just say, it was the best garlic bread I have had in many, many years, and reminded me of the garlic bread I bought as a teen from our local takeaway ‘Spaghetti Junction’. The takeaway has long since closed down but their garlic bread lives on long in legend as garlic bread of mythical magnificence. I am telling you this, so you understand that when I compare Gio’s garlic bread to this garlic bread of my youth – it has significance!

Gio’s Diner for fabulous Calzone

So, waxing less lyrical, I then ordered the calzone with sliced steak in a creamy pepper sauce. It wouldn’t be something I normally ordered but I was feeling gregarious. It was superb. I was so enamoured that I ordered a garlic bread and pepperoni calzone to take home for Mr Wonders. Gio asked if I wanted them ready cooked or if I wanted to take them back and cook them at home. Mr Wonders was working so I plumped for cooking at home. They got Mr Wonders’ seal of approval too. Will definitely be visiting for more takeaways!

Very Reasonable Prices

Gio’s has extremely reasonable prices. The food is served with disposable plates and cutlery, but this only added to the charm for me and I truly felt that I had discovered a hidden gem.  At lunchtime you can get a drink and a calzone for £5.

A Great Welcome at Gio’s Italian Diner

Part of why Gio’s is such a great place to go (as well as the fabulous food and cheap prices) is Gio himself. He is a larger than life character, an Italian spirit with a Yorkshire accent. He made us all feel welcome and the children loved him.  Go to Gio’s you can thank me later!