Called in for lunch today. Our party had some dietary requirements that Harley's more than met. A lot of items having vegetarian / vegan / gluten free options (including gluten free pizzas) which was more than we expected. Service was welcoming, prompt and engaging, we were seated quickly and our orders taken. The food was excellent and arrived in good time. An excellent place to call in for food when I'm Grasmere. We'll certainly be using it again.
Overview
Harley's Bistro & Café Bar, located at 2 College St, Grasmere, Ambleside LA22 9SZ, United Kingdom, is a charming spot that offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of one of the Lake District's most picturesque towns. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this bistro has something special to offer. With its cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and a menu that beautifully blends classic favorites with modern twists, it's no wonder that Harley's has become a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing yet refined dining experience.
The moment you step into Harley's, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere. The decor is stylish and warm, with plenty of natural light streaming through the windows, giving it an airy, welcoming feel. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend hours, whether you’re having a leisurely meal or a quick coffee break. The interior features wooden floors, comfortable seating, and soft lighting, which together create a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. Whether you’re dining alone, with friends, or with family, you’ll feel right at home.
One of the standout features of Harley's Bistro & Café Bar is its menu. The selection is diverse, offering everything from fresh salads and sandwiches to hearty main dishes and delectable desserts. If you’re in the mood for something light, you can’t go wrong with their seasonal soups or a freshly made sandwich, which pairs perfectly with one of their artisanal coffees. For those with a bigger appetite, the bistro’s mains are not to be missed. A favorite among regulars is their fish and chips, which consistently receives rave reviews for its perfectly crispy batter and tender fish.
The chefs at Harley’s place a significant emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients. This commitment to quality is evident in every dish, with each bite showcasing the fresh flavors of the region. You’ll often find ingredients from nearby farms and markets, which adds to the authenticity and appeal of the menu. There’s something particularly comforting about knowing that the food you’re enjoying is made with such care and sourced from the surrounding area.
A notable aspect of dining at Harley's is the exceptional service. The staff is always friendly and attentive, making sure your dining experience is as pleasant as possible. They take the time to explain the menu in detail, offering helpful recommendations if you're unsure about what to order. Additionally, the team is more than happy to accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions, making it a fantastic choice for everyone, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs.
One of the best times to visit is during the weekend when Harley’s offers a wonderful brunch menu. Imagine starting your day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and enjoying their signature avocado toast or perhaps their indulgent eggs benedict. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed morning meal before heading out to explore Grasmere and its stunning surroundings.
In terms of location, Harley's Bistro & Café Bar is ideally situated for those looking to enjoy a peaceful meal while being close to Grasmere’s charming shops, scenic walking trails, and historic landmarks. Grasmere itself is known for its serene beauty and rich history, and dining here adds another layer of enjoyment to your visit. Whether you're strolling through the town, hiking in the nearby hills, or simply taking in the stunning views of the Lake District, Harley's offers the perfect place to pause and recharge.
The reviews for Harley's consistently highlight the exceptional quality of both the food and the service. Visitors frequently mention the warm atmosphere, the generous portions, and the attention to detail in every dish. People appreciate the fact that it's a place where you can have a casual meal or a special celebration, all while feeling like you're part of a welcoming community.
For those who enjoy a relaxed yet flavorful meal in a cozy setting, Harley's Bistro & Café Bar is an absolute gem. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a full meal, you can count on top-notch food, excellent service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and great company in the heart of the Lake District.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selectionPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car parkOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Free water refills ✓ Halal food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Ticket Restaurant ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ Has changing table(s) ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid street parkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed ✓ Dogs allowed inside ✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 339 reviews
Visited Grasmere for the day with the family and our dog. We popped in here to ask if the dog was ok to join us. It was a yes so that sealed the deal. The staff were extremely friendly, they brought over some water and treats and even a little blanket for our little dog to sit on. We ordered three meals and tea and coffee. One tomato and basil soup that my wife really enjoyed. I had the all day breakfast that was really nicely done and well presented and my daughter got the vegetarian breakfast (always one lol ) She loved it and the vegetarian sausages were actually vegetables and cheese and not meat substitute. That made a really nice change. We all had a nice experience here and would recommend it to anyone.
A lovely spot outside for a drink and food. We were met with a warm and friendly welcome and enjoyed a couple of pints from a local brewery and some homemade sweet treats were purchased, some for us and some for the family back home! The atmosphere is relaxed and a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Grasmere in August.
Highly recommending the loaded fries! It’s big enough to share! We had one each and were stuffed afterwards! I only gave 4⭐ for the atmosphere, because it was an hr before closing time and it was cold and rainy outside. I’m sure it’s probably buzzing on other days/times. I loved the building and fairy lights. I wish I had room for cakes, because they looked great too!
Beautiful food! Called in on spec, dog friendly, had scampi & chips, mac & cheese and a full english so a real mix, everything came out fresh, perfectly cooked and really delicious. We felt it was very reasonably priced for the area & staff were incredibly friendly. Thanks!
Positive surprise after first impression! Nicely served delicious food, attentive service. Interesting vibe being a former little church.
There are plenty of eateries to choose from in Grasmere, but this one caught my eye! It's in a former Methodist chapel in the centre of the village. There are a few outside tables, and a pleasant and welcoming indoor space with a quaint timbered ceiling. Very quiet when I was there, but then it was a rainy Monday in March! The two young waitresses were attentive and friendly. There's a well stocked bar where you can get beer, wine, gin and a great choice of cocktails. I ordered a very refreshing apple and raspberry soft drink. The menu offered a good selection of sandwiches, pizzas, burgers and hot meals, and there were a couple of special dishes of the day. Ordered a chowder full of smoked haddock, leeks and bacon, topped with onions and a poached egg. There were other vegetables in it too, and it was served with two chunks of warm crusty bread. A delicious light meal, well cooked, and very warming on such a cold wet day! The bread was really soft and fresh too. There's a tempting selection of cakes and desserts. Dogs are welcome here, and you can get doggy treats and ice-cream for them. A nice place to have lunch if you're walking or sightseeing around Grasmere.
Lovely food, good prices, great service and fantastic music! Very good. Thanks!