A York patisserie and cafe led by a UK Pastry Champion has been named Coffee Shop/Café of the Year in the area's newest awards.
Florian Poirot Patisserie & Cafe, which operates boutiques in York’s Shambles and Malton, took the honour at The Press Food and Drinks Awards 2026 after impressing judges with its blend of luxury craftsmanship, innovation and customer experience.
These brand-new awards are celebrating the exceptional talent, flavour and creativity that make York and surrounding area one of the UK’s most exciting food and drink destinations.
York St John University was the award sponsor. (Image: The Press)
Florian Poirot was praised for having successfully expanded while maintaining the standards of a traditional French artisan patisserie.
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The award, presented during a celebration evening at the National Railway Museum on Monday, October 5, set out to recognise businesses that deliver outstanding quality, customer service and community impact.
Florian Poirot was praised for redefining Yorkshire’s dessert scene through a combination of world-class pastry skills and warm Northern hospitality.
Florian Poirot on Shambles, York, wins best café award. (Image: The Press)
At the heart of the business are its signature macarons, which have earned a loyal following for their natural flavours and delicate texture. The range of cakes and desserts is continually refreshed to showcase seasonal Yorkshire produce, combining local ingredients with classic French techniques.
Judges also highlighted the customer experience. Visitors are given an insight into the craftsmanship behind the products, while meticulous presentation and packaging help transform every purchase into a luxury gift experience.
The business has invested in bricks-and-mortar retail at a time when many food businesses are focusing online, helping to drive footfall to high streets in both York and Malton. It has also prioritised staff development, providing advanced French pastry training and mentoring to help raise industry standards across the region.
Meet the winners of The Press Food and Drink Awards. (Image: The Press)
Despite rising ingredient costs and supply chain challenges, Florian Poirot remains committed to using premium French chocolate and Yorkshire dairy products.
Fera Science was the headline sponsor. (Image: The Press)
The company’s growth from a small operation to two thriving boutiques has been fuelled by strong word-of-mouth recommendations and an enthusiastic social media following.
Looking ahead, the business plans to launch a dedicated wholesale and corporate gifting division, expand its national online offering and create four new jobs across production and retail. The expansion aims to bring the Florian Poirot experience to more customers while continuing to invest in local talent and the art of French pastry.
The Coffee Shop/ Café of the Year Award was sponsored by York St John University.
*A special souvenir supplement will be published in The Press today, Wednesday, October 7, celebrating the awards night and winners.
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