Harrogate - Eat Like a Local

Harrogate is renowned for its elegance and charm, and this extends to our vibrant bars and restaurants.  Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, dining out in Harrogate is an experience to savour. From cosy tearooms to award-winning fine dining restaurants, the town offers a range of exceptional options to suit all tastes, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. 
With its central location, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages provide a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the culinary delights of Harrogate whether you are looking for afternoon tea, fine dining, or a more relaxed vibe in one of our delightful gastropubs and cafes.  It is well known that to dine well in a location is to dine where the locals dine.  To make your planning easier, we’ve put together a list of the restaurants, pubs and cafes that get the seal of approval from our discerning local residents.  So read on to find the perfect place to eat, drink and socialise in our lovely town, guided by our local knowledge.
 
Afternoon Tea
One of Harrogate’s most famous culinary institutions is Bettys Tea Rooms, a must-visit for those seeking traditional afternoon tea. Established over 100 years ago, Bettys continues to serve impeccable cakes, sandwiches, and its signature Fat Rascals.  The elegant surroundings and excellent service make it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon treat.  If afternoon tea is your thing, then don’t forget to check out our blog on that very subject.  You can find it here:  (Kim to add the link to the tearoom blog here) 
 
Fine Dining
For those looking to indulge in fine dining, Harrogate does not disappoint. The town is home to several acclaimed restaurants offering modern British cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Many chefs in the area are passionate about showcasing the best produce from Yorkshire, whether it’s succulent lamb, game from the Dales, or fresh fish from the coast. Expect carefully crafted menus with dishes that combine traditional flavours with contemporary flair.
 
Orchid Restaurant at The Studley Hotel
Offering a fusion of Far-Eastern flavours in an elegant setting. It’s known for its culinary excellence and has been a staple in Harrogate since 2001. Find out more here:  The Orchid
 
William & Victoria, Cold Bath Road
An independent, family-run restaurant and Harrogate’s first wine bar, established over 40 years ago. It has a cozy, character-filled atmosphere with a more spacious dining area upstairs. They specialise in traditional British food and use high quality local suppliers.  This has long been known as an ideal date night restaurant though they also serve delicious lunches too.  Find out more here:  https://www.williamandvictoria.com/ 
 
Drum and Monkey, 5 Montpellier Gardens
The Drum and Monkey is an independent seafood restaurant located in the heart of Harrogate’s Montpellier Quarter. Known for its intimate and cozy atmosphere, it has built a strong reputation for quality and service over the years and is well worth a visit if you love really fresh seafood.  You can check out the menus here:  https://drumandmonkey.co.uk/
 
Mediterranean Cuisine
Papas Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine, 11A Princes Square
This family-run Mediterranean restaurant prides itself on fresh, daily-prepared dishes. The food is known for being plentiful and sensibly priced. Check them out here:  https://www.papasauthentic.co.uk/
 
Efes Turkish and Mediterranean Bar and Grill, 28 Swan Road
 Known for its melt-in-the-mouth seasoned lamb and delicious sharing platters, this restaurant offers a vibrant and friendly dining experience.  Check out the menu here:  https://efesbarandgrill.co.uk/
 
Indian Cuisine
Jinnah, 34 Cheltenham Parade
If you love really great Indian cuisine then Jinnah is the place to go.  Located a very short walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, this welcoming family-run restaurant has been serving locals and visitors for nearly 20 years. Find out more here:  https://www.jinnahharrogate.co.uk/
 
Gastropubs and Bistros
If you prefer something a little more relaxed, Harrogate has a variety of gastropubs and bistros that offer high-quality food in a laid-back atmosphere. These venues offer hearty British favourites such as steak and ale pie or Sunday roasts, as well as more international fare, from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian fusion.
Some local favourites include:
Starling Independent Bar Café Kitchen, 47 Oxford Street
This relaxed venue is known for its craft beer and specialist coffee.  Starling offers a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu and is hugely popular with locals for brunch, lunch, and dinner.  They specialise in Neapolitan-style pizzas which some locals claim are the best in town.  They also offer Yorkshire poutine as well as range of vegan and gluten-free options.  https://www.murmurationbars.co.uk/
 
Major Tom’s Social, The Ginnel
This laid-back hangout is perfect for enjoying quality food and drink in a retro setting. Major Tom’s is known for its eclectic atmosphere, complete with board games, live music, and art exhibitions.  They serve delicious stone-baked pizzas as well as meat and cheese platters, all accompanied by a wide range of craft beers and real ales.  https://www.majortomssocial.co.uk/
 
Lilypad, 134 Kings Road
A relatively new but extremely popular bar and restaurant offering a fusion of Asian and South American flavours. Lilypad’s unique sharing plates and vibrant cocktails are particularly popular.  This restaurant is just a ten minute walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages too.  You can find out  more here:  https://www.lilypadharrogate.com/
 
Farmhouse, Unit 1, Westgate House, Station Parade
An all-day restaurant serving seasonal dishes from breakfast to dinner. Farmhouse is known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive menu catering to various dietary preferences. This restaurant is very popular for brunch and offers handmade burgers, salads, a range of British classics, and offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.  It is well worth checking them out here:  https://www.farmhouse.biz/
 
Café’s, Coffee and Cakes
The town also boasts a thriving café culture. You’ll find artisan coffee houses serving expertly brewed coffee alongside an array of pastries and light lunches. Perfect for a casual catch-up or a break during a day of exploring the local shops and attractions, Harrogate’s cafés offer a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.  We recommend:
Caffé Marconi, Princes Square
Centrally located and serving excellent coffee, delicious cakes, pizza, and other hot foods, this is a popular café with locals with a friendly, buzzing atmosphere.  https://www.caffemarconi.co.uk/menu/
 
Bean & Bud, 14 Commercial Street
A cozy, independent coffee shop known for its excellent coffee and friendly atmosphere. They offer a variety of cakes and pastries, with options for different dietary needs.
 
Hoxton North, 1A Royal Parade
This café brings a touch of the big city to Harrogate with its stylish interior and focus on quality. It’s a great spot for a relaxing coffee break or a light lunch.
 
Baltzersen’s, 22 Oxford Street
Scandinavian-Inspired café whose unique menu focuses on quality and sustainability. The café is known for its welcoming vibe and delicious baked goods with their Cinnamon Rolls being a particularly popular option.  https://www.baltzersens.co.uk/
 
No35 Harrogate, 35 Cheltenham Crescent
This small, independently owned coffee shop that prides itself on serving ethically sourced coffee and freshly made bagels. It’s a favourite among locals for its quality and cosy atmosphere. Better still, it’s a short walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages.
Dining out in Harrogate is not just about the food; it’s about enjoying a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere that reflects the town’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. From fine dining to casual bites, there is something for every palate in this picturesque corner of North Yorkshire. 
The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages make a comfortable base from which to explore all the culinary delights that Harrogate has to offer.  Why not browse the options, pick your favourites, and then book direct with us to start your culinary exploration.  Don’t forget, if you book direct, you can choose your room (subject to availability).  Check out our website (LINK TO THE BEDROOMS PAGE HERE) to find your perfect room.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.