Where the HCR team like to eat out locally and why…
Whether you are new to the area or just fancy trying somewhere different to eat, read on for our favourite local hotspots!
Estate agents first and foremost, but here at Home County Rentals we love to dine out and are self-confessed foodies. From breakfast, to lunch to drunch (yes, it’s a thing) …we do it all. And even with a population of just 30,000 we’re spoilt for choice in Harpenden, and take into consideration St. Albans…you will never run out of places to try (although we’re getting pretty close). With that said, team HCR have narrowed down, which was no mean feat, our favourite places to share with you…
1 – Breakfast – The most important meal of the day, so make it a good one…
OKKA, Harpenden
Okka is an all-day eatery with a Mediterranean influence ‘situated on Harpenden high-street, it’s a great spot and on a sunny summers day grab a seat outside and enjoy the fresh air and people watching’, says Emma who recommends trying ‘the eggs benedict or the Okka.’
SILVER PALATE, Harpenden
You will rarely find this spot quiet, it is usually heaving with locals and rightly so…the food is divine. The delicatessen offers everything from croissants, to Croque Madame and of course a full English. Liz, HCR Manager recommends trying the ‘Insalate Pollo’.
HATCH, St.Albans
If you fancy a relaxed Sunday morning walking around St.Albans Abbey followed by a spot of breakfast, go to Hatch. ‘My favourite place for breakfast, I love the chorizo and avocado on toast with a poached egg’, recommends Natasha, ‘plus, the coffee is amazing’.
The Breakfast Club, St.Albans
Don’t judge a book by its cover…although a simple exterior, inside The Breakfast Club you’re welcomed with a cosy and buzzing atmosphere and the food is great. Sally recommends trying the ‘stacked pancakes, they’re oh so moreish’.
2 – Lunch
From a laid-back lunch to a work meeting, we have narrowed down the best (in our opinion) lunch time spots…
Cote, Harpenden
Only recently did Cote land in Harpenden, and we’re so pleased it did. The interior is lovely, with an open and classic feel and if you pop in after 12pm you can enjoy the lunch time deal of two courses for just £11.50. It’s a no-brainer. Liz would recommend “the chicken salad, a lovely summer dish”.
Tabure, St.Albans
A modern Turkish Kitchen, Tabure has a warm, welcoming environment is great for tapas, go in a big group so you can try a bit of everything. ‘All the dishes are packed with flavour, some of the best food I’ve tasted’ says Natasha.
Godfreys Fish and Chips, Harpenden
We may be far from the sea, but Godfreys ranked top 10 in the UK last year for best fish and chip shop. ‘It’s simple good food with an optional fine dining experience’, says Billie. If you haven’t been make a visit, pronto.
Bill’s Restaurant, St. Albans
Great for lunch, but also brilliant for brunch…with their recently revamped menu. Now you can have eggs benedict, pancakes, smashed avo on toast from 11.30am until 3.30pm. ‘I love the menu, there is something for everyone’ says Sally.
3 – Dinner
Bar Azita, Harpenden
Buzzing and lively, Bar Azita is a favourite for many. The food is Mediterranean tapas and is perfect for a light snack or birthday banquet. Go on a Monday night and enjoy the jazz band with a few cocktails, ‘top tip, make sure you always book’ recommends Liz.
Dylans, St. Albans
A contemporary pub, Dylans is fine dining with a twist. The atmosphere is great on a Friday night and the menu is quirky with an eclectic mix of dishes. Natasha loves it here, ‘Dylans followed by the pudding stop is my perfect evening out’.
Luton Hoo, Luton
‘For something extra special try the restaurant at Luton Hoo’ says Billie, ‘you can have drinks on the terrace beforehand and make the most of the beautiful grounds’. A perfect choice for a birthday or celebration.
Prime, St. Albans
If you’re a meat lover, you’ll love prime. It’s an upmarket steak & grill and they are famous for their steaks. ‘Trust me on this one, you’ll not be disappointed’ says Emma.
