It’s been said that Yorkshire has the largest number of excellent restaurants in the UK outside of London, and Harrogate certainly has its fair share; there are over 130 to choose from representing kitchens from every corner of the world and to suit every purse.
It is no wonder that big food events like The BBC Good Food Show and Cake and Bake are regular visitors to Harrogate.
Harrogate in North Yorkshire is foodie heaven. Cold Bath Road is the place to eat in Harrogate and these restaurants showcase the town’s best. From afternoon tea to fine dining this town has something for everyone. With loads of local ingredients Harrogate restaurants offer a world of cuisines. In this guide we’ll show you the top places to eat, local specialties and food festivals to visit in Harrogate.
Quick Summary Table: Harrogate Food Highlights
| Food Experience | Venue/Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Afternoon Tea | Bettys Tea Room | Traditional afternoon tea with scones and pastries. |
| Fine Dining | The Ivy Harrogate | Elegant à la carte menu perfect for a romantic dinner. |
| Farmers’ Market | Town Centre | Organic produce, locally sourced cheeses, and more. |
| Authentic Tapas | La Feria Wellington House | Authentic tapas inspired by contemporary Spain. |
| Sunday Roast | The Pine Marten | Hearty Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. |
Harrogate Food Scene
Harrogate has a food scene that combines traditional Yorkshire with modern trends. It’s become a foodie destination with everything from casual pubs to Michelin starred restaurants. Locals and visitors alike enjoy seasonal dishes created by talented chefs who use fresh ingredients and local produce. Whether you want a lazy Sunday roast with all the works or a smart à la carte menu Harrogate’s food is as diverse as it is delicious.
Harrogate’s Iconic Foods
Harrogate has a few iconic dishes and local specialities. Harrogate toffee and Yorkshire tea are big ones and are celebrated in tea rooms like Bettys Tea Room, a Harrogate institution. Sunday roasts are another classic, often with all the works. Seasonal produce and local ingredients mean every dish is a taste of North Yorkshire’s best.
Try:
- Yorkshire tea with fresh scones and cream at Bettys Tea Room
- Harrogate toffee, a local favourite
- Sunday roast with seasonal veg and roast potatoes
These show the town’s commitment to good food that’s traditional and excellent.
Best Restaurants and Cafes in Harrogate
Harrogate’s food scene is varied from casual cafes to fine dining. Giggling Squid is a Harrogate restaurant that specialises in Thai food, known for its warm atmosphere and unique dishes. The West Park Hotel has a relaxed vibe where you can enjoy seasonal food in the heart of town. For an authentic international experience La Feria Wellington House does authentic tapas, bringing the flavours of modern Spain to the town.
Fine Dining Restaurants:
- Ivy Harrogate: Elegant atmosphere and menu, perfect for a romantic dinner or brunch.
- The Pine Marten: Dog friendly and just a stone’s throw from the town centre, with a great wine list to match your meal.
- Feria Wellington House: For authentic tapas and seasonal food, a taste of Spain in Harrogate.
Whether you want a light lunch, a Sunday roast or a sweet treat these Harrogate restaurants have something for everyone.
Fine Dining:
Harrogate is famous for its fine dining and the best of local and seasonal produce. From Michelin starred restaurants to award winning eateries the town has plenty of options for those looking for a special culinary experience.
- The Clock Tower at Rudding Park: 2AA Rosettes. Tasting menu and afternoon tea. Using seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. The head chef uses only fresh, local produce so the dining experience is both elegant and memorable.
- Horto at Rudding Park: 3AA Rosettes. Tasting menu with small plates. Seasonal ingredients and creative presentation. Each dish is a work of art, the chef’s passion for food is evident.
- Goldsborough Hall: 3AA Rosettes. Tasting menu and afternoon tea. Local, seasonal and sustainable produce is used in all dishes. The historic setting is lovely and it’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
- The West Park Hotel: Contemporary hotel and restaurant with an à la carte menu. Seasonal produce used to create delicious dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Just a stone’s throw from the town centre, perfect for locals and visitors.
- Grantley Hall: Luxury hotel and wellness retreat with a Michelin starred restaurant. Fine dining with seasonal ingredients and creative presentation. Elegant surroundings and impeccable service make it a special occasion spot.
Harrogate Food Festivals and Events
Harrogate’s food festivals are all about local and international food. Events like the Harrogate Food and Drink Festival attract thousands of visitors and give you the chance to try seasonal produce from local chefs and vendors. With a focus on local ingredients these festivals promote the region’s food heritage.
Harrogate Food Festivals:
- Harrogate Food and Drink Festival: A main event with local produce, street food and craft beer from North Yorkshire.
- Farmers’ markets: Organic and sustainable food, get to try the freshest local ingredients.
Food festivals in Harrogate are a great way to try new flavours and support local businesses.
Afternoon Tea in Harrogate
Harrogate is famous for afternoon tea and the town has several top venues where you can enjoy this British institution. Bettys Tea Room in the centre of Harrogate is the iconic destination where visitors can indulge in finger sandwiches, scones and pastries all served with Yorkshire tea.
Afternoon Tea in Harrogate:
- Bettys Tea Room: Classic afternoon tea in a historic setting.
- West Park Hotel: Modern and relaxed afternoon tea.
- The Ivy Harrogate: Beautiful cakes and pastries, a more modern take on afternoon tea.
These tea rooms use fresh ingredients, good drinks and great service so you can sit back and enjoy the Harrogate experience.
Harrogate Farmers’ Markets and Seasonal Food
Harrogate farmers’ markets and Artisan markets are at the heart of the town’s food movement. Across the town centre you’ll find organic produce, free-range meat and freshly baked goods from local makers. The markets aren’t just about buying food they’re an opportunity to meet the producers and find out about their commitment to sustainability.
Market Favourites:
- Fresh vegetables and seasonal fruit from local farms
- Artisanal goods organic cheese, freshly baked bread and local honey
- Meat sellers with free-range poultry and grass-fed beef
Farmers’ markets in Harrogate are all about supporting sustainable farming and getting to enjoy fresh ingredients.
Pubs and Bars in Harrogate
Pubs and Bars for a Night Out:
Harrogate’s pubs and bars have something for everyone for a night out from traditional alehouses to trendy cocktail bars. Here are the best pubs and bars in Harrogate:
- The Malt Shovel: A traditional pub with a range of ales and pub classics including pan-seared tuna steak and carrot and honey tart tatin. Cosy atmosphere and great service makes it a local favourite.
- The Pine Marten: Modern world-food trends and premium grill dishes, vibrant atmosphere and extensive cocktail menu. Just a stone’s throw from the town centre so perfect for a lively night out.
- The Wild Plum: Quirky creations and delicious food, this brunch eatery turns into a relaxed bar in the evening. Extensive cocktail menu and laid-back vibe makes it great for unwinding with friends.
- La Feria: Independent restaurant serving Spanish tapas and rustic stylish interior, perfect for a night out with friends. Authentic tapas and lively atmosphere transports you to modern Spain.
- Jesper’s Bar & Kitchen: Family run restaurant with cosy atmosphere and great food, cocktails and wine. Great for a relaxed evening with good company and good drinks.
Try out these restaurants and pubs and bars and you’ll get a taste of the whole Harrogate food and drink scene.
Harrogate in a Nutshell
Harrogate is a mix of traditional Yorkshire and modern dining. From iconic places like Bettys Tea Room to fine dining at The Pine Marten and The Ivy Harrogate there’s something for everyone. Romantic dinners to casual brunches in relaxed surroundings.
Whether you’re eating out in Harrogate, visiting the farmers’ markets or attending the Harrogate Food and Drink Festival there’s plenty of foodie fun to be had in this lovely town. Fresh ingredients, local produce and a foodie culture means Harrogate is a food lover’s paradise.
