Hermitage Rd Bar and Restaurant is a contemporary British eatery in Hitchin, set within a striking former ballroom in the town centre. Defined by soaring arched ceilings, exposed brick walls and a dramatic floor-to-ceiling window, the space feels grand and relaxed. A long, black-panelled bar runs the length of one wall, while industrial pendant lights, rustic wooden tables and simple seating create a setting that shifts from bright and airy by day to moody and atmospheric in the evening.
Head chef Oli Sturt leads the kitchen, focusing on seasonal British cooking with broader influences woven through the menus. The dinner menu features starters such as Cromer crab sourdough crumpets with green apple and chicory, Maldon rock oysters and Herefordshire beef carpaccio. Mains range from honey and chilli-glazed salmon with sticky coconut rice and lobster and crayfish risotto, to pork belly ribs with mango salsa, and a smoked bacon cheeseburger. Prime cuts of sirloin, rib eye and T-bone are available, alongside dishes from the charcoal oven, including Cornish lamb chops. Desserts include coconut creme caramel and milk chocolate mousse, whilst the lunch menu offers a pared-back version of the dinner menu, and there is also a set menu available early on weekday evenings.
Brunch is a lively offering, with Turkish eggs, avocado and poached eggs on sourdough, Belgian waffles and a full English sitting alongside flat iron steak with hash browns and fried eggs. Bloody Marys and oysters add a celebratory touch. Sundays focus on traditional roasts, including sirloin of beef, pork loin, chicken or a sweet potato and pecan nut roast, all served with the usual trimmings.
For more casual visits, snacks such as oysters, tempura courgettes and truffle Parmesan fries are served at the bar. The drinks list includes classic and experimental cocktails, wines by the glass, beer, cider and non-alcoholic options. The versatile space and varied menus mean it's a great spot for everything from dates to celebratory dining. Dedicated children's menus make it accessible for families, too.