Harrogate Restaurant Guide

“Still the most civilised place on Earth” – these archetypal tea rooms have been a “Yorkshire institution” for a century now, founded as they were in 1919. There’s “no point wasting calories elsewhere” when here you can enjoy “afternoon tea, exactly as it should be”: “surrounded by starched white tablecloths and napkins, plus silver teapots, with a great selection of sandwiches (extra if you want them!) and cakes, plus unlimited tea or coffee served in grand surroundings by lovely staff”. “Every town should have one. Why don’t they?”

“Overlooking the gardens at RHS Harlow Carr”, which considerably add to the charms of this “lovely” branch of the well-known Yorkshire tea room chain. From the “magnificent” coffee to the breakfast and afternoon tea, it’s “always busy – with good reason”.

“Italian food as it should be” – Stefano Lancellotti’s “good, traditional” operation (established 22 years ago) has maintained “consistent high standards in all areas over the years”, and focuses on the Emilia Romagna region, from whence Lancellotti hails.

“A touch of class… and in a classy area”: this “unfailing” Pan-Asian occupies the ground and first floor of the Studley hotel and – “a Harrogate institution” of approaching 20 years’ standing – remains the most-mentioned eatery in the area thanks to its “civilised” style and “tremendous” dishes. Top Tip – “Sunday buffet lunch is superb value” and gets “hectic” as a result (at other times the place has a “calm and relaxing ambience”).

Paul Rawlinson may have shut down his beloved Norse, but his other local venture, albeit “cramped”, remains “way beyond what other numerous high street coffee shops can offer”; “the brews are absolutely delicious” and “the bakes (Scandi buns etc) are brilliant…”: “go for the waffles – the big secret is they’re gluten-free and you don’t even notice it!”

There’s a “nice buzz” about this “trendy, artisan foodie restaurant with fabulous, ever-changing Italian small plates”, opposite Harrogate Convention Centre. ‘Stuzzichini’ are snacks typically served by Venetian osterias – but don’t worry about minuscule portions: this is “hugely enjoyable and satisfying food”, offered by “knowledgeable staff” alongside “some impressive wines”. They recently opened in Leeds too.

“Classy but not stuffy” – this “most agreeable” seafood restaurant has been a Montpelier institution for half a century – William Fuller, who owned it for 25 years and died in 2018, is still missed by regulars. Now run by the Carter family, it retains its old-school atmosphere, while “the seafood on offer is always fresh, appetising and excellent”.