The South African was hit repeatedly over the head with a rock or cobble after a stranger struck up conversation with him at around 8.30pm on Friday, police said.
Witnesses dialled 999 and the pair were found in the Deans Park area.
The victim was taken to York District Hospital for treatment to a serious head injury and damage to his hand. He has since been released from hospital and his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
North Yorkshire Police said officers arrested a 43-year-old man from Tadcaster at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
He was charged with attempted murder on Saturday and was remanded in custody to appear before York Magistrates' Court on Monday.
