Don’t let the corny name of this hotel kitchen, bar and terrace put you off, because once you step inside you are greeted by attractive interiors and stunning sea views. Part of the Harbour Hotel in St Ives, Harbar (geddit?) is open to both hotel guests and the general public, characterised by plump cushions scattered over brightly coloured furniture, dark wooden tables and an outdoor terrace boasting enviable views which overlook the ocean.
Serving food both inside the dining room or out on the terrace, Harbar prides itself on making the most of Cornwall’s natural larder, crafting a seasonally-changing menu of dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, which in turn can be paired with beers and spirits from local brewers and distillers, as well as wine and cocktails. Although the menu at Harbar evolves with the seasons, you can always expect to find an all-day offering, alongside a dedicated children’s menu and a traditional daily afternoon tea featuring finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a selection of cakes and other sweet treats.
Unsurprisingly for a restaurant in St Ives, there are plenty of fish options on the a la carte - ranging from starting dishes of prawn cocktail drizzled with a gin and pepper syrup and smoked haddock with leek and potato terrine, to main courses of seafood linguine or classic fish and chips accompanied by smashed peas and tartare sauce. If you prefer meatier fare, you can order a dish from the grill, which includes the likes of chargrilled chicken with lemon and garlic or a hefty steak burger topped with cheese, bacon and relish. There are plenty of side dishes available to pad out your meal too, such as skinny fries, truffle mac ‘n’ cheese or wilted spinach.
Keep the indulgence going for pudding, when you can tuck into creme brulee or chocolate delice.