Experienced chef launches new dining venture Skosh in Micklegate York

Skosh is the latest addition to York’s ever-growing food scene as the new restaurant has been launched on 98 Micklegate by Neil Bentinck.

Skosh brings a mix of Asian fusion with contemporary British cooking while providing snacks, small plates and sharing platters.

Funding to support the opening of Skosh has been provided by the Royal Bank of Scotland, represented by Gary Butterfield.

The working capital provided has helped to assist the purchase and fit out of the restaurant to transform the Grade-II listed building, situated just beyond the ‘Micklegate Bar’ in York.

Neil, Skosh owner and head chef, has previously worked in a variety of kitchens and Michelin starred restaurants across the region. He is joined in the kitchen by chef Sam Willis and pastry chef Joe Fennerty, with Morgan McDermott front of house as general manager.

Neil said: “I am very excited to have launched my own restaurant which has been a longstanding ambition of mine. I am from York originally and live here so this was the only location I wanted to be in.

“At Skosh we aim to bring a contemporary dining experience that reflects many international influences with a British twist using local seasonal produce.

“Signature dishes including skosh fried chicken, sorrel emulsion and fermented vegetable slaw, beef cheek ‘thai style’ with pineapple, salted duck egg and coconut, and scallop ceviche, charred watermelon, radish and curry - these all highlight the variety of tastes available on our menu.

“The support provided by Gary Butterfield at the Royal Bank of Scotland has been very helpful. He understood the process and has been professional throughout and shown great interest in our refit plans.

“The end result showcases a bespoke dining room with an open plan kitchen which has been designed to specifically create a unique experience in which to enjoy our eclectic food.

“Skosh meaning ‘a little; a small amount’ comes from the Japanese term ‘sukoshi’ and fits the ethos of the restaurant perfectly. We are looking forward to welcome diners to Skosh.”

Gary Butterfield, business lending manager at the Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “Neil is a very experienced chef and has an impressive CV having gained experience across a variety of restaurants.

“It is fantastic to help a new business to start up and I have been very impressed with Neil’s ambition and focus with regards to launching Skosh and bringing an exciting dining experience to York.”