Harry's Restaurant, Exeter
Tucked at the top of Longbrook street lies Harry’s restaurant, an independent family run business set in a beautiful gothic building. Its Victorian red bricks and wide windows set it apart from any other restaurant in Exeter, giving it an elegance which continues inside, with the high-class and stylish interior. Even on a Thursday lunch time, the restaurant was buzzing, yet at the same time, it didn’t feel too crowded and our waitress was friendly and attentive.
Harry’s is all about good quality food, and an extensive chalkboard on one of the walls tells you where many of the restaurant’s ingredients are sourced- local farms and local producers and suppliers. For example, my burger roll was from Emma’s bread, a bakery in Exeter. It’s heart-warming to know that such a wonderful restaurant gives so much back to its local area.
To start with, my friends and I shared the garlic bread and artisan breads. At only £3.50 each, we were surprised at the huge garlic baguette and large mezze board of bread we were given. But obviously, we didn’t complain. The garlic bread was soft and rich, accompanied by a rich and creamy garlic aioli. The bread board provided a bit of everything- white and brown bread, breadsticks, butter, oil and balsamic vinegar. All fresh and all delicious.
I opted for the breaded chicken burger for my main- it was fat, juicy and loaded with potato rostis, jalapeño mayo and cheese. However, what stole the show was the Hog N Mac; an immense pulled pork burger with a hefty side of rich mac and cheese. My friend barely made a dent in it. Both the quantity and quality of all the food we enjoyed was top class, and although the prices may be a little steep for a student’s budget (the main’s average at about £15), it is definitely the best place to go for a treat. I’m already trying to justify a trip back.
Overall rating: 9.5/10 – by far my favourite restaurant in Exeter!
