Banks, who runs The Black Swan at Oldstead and Roots in York, both of which hold a Michelin star, said in an Instagram post that the van contained 2,500 pies, which were to be sold as part of his premium food delivery service Made in Oldstead.
“It’s horrible being robbed,” Banks said.
“What I can’t get my head around, though, is these guys probably stole the van, because that’s what they do, but they probably didn’t bargain for the near tonne of pies that is in the back of it.
“It’s sad as that’s a lot of meat, a lot of flour and eggs, and a lot of work. Like so much work.”
Banks added that all of the pies are in boxes with his name on and so will not be very easy to sell.
“If you are the thieves and read this, I urge you to the drop the pies off somewhere,” he added.
“So, we can at least give them to people who need food, and they are not wasted.”
He added that if anyone is offered the pies they should contact the police.