Priory Restaurant at Hitchin Priory Hotel is a refined dining venue set within the historic Hitchin Priory; a Grade I-listed property that provides an enchanting mix of heritage charm and modern comfort.
The restaurant occupies elegant, wood-panelled rooms and cloistered spaces, complemented by a more informal bar area called the Radcliffe Bar. It's open daily, offering afternoon tea from midday, lunch in the bar, and evening dinner service.
Menu-wise, the Priory delivers contemporary British-European cuisine crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Small plates and nibbles include a basket of warm bread with olive oil and balsamic, mixed olives, halloumi fries and whitebait to whet the appetite. Starters range from classic soup of the day and smoked duck salad to innovative parsnip cakes and vegetable fritters. Mains present a strong grill selection - sirloin, rib-eye or fillet steak - and thoughtful seasonal dishes such as braised beef cheek in bourguignon sauce, sweet chilli-soy salmon with udon noodles, tomato-mozzarella-wrapped chicken, and a green risotto. Seafood and surf-and-turf options feature too. Desserts include panna cotta with passion fruit, summer berry trifle, caramelised pineapple with rum ice cream, cinnamon apple strudel and a British cheese platter. Afternoon tea, served daily with finger sandwiches, scones, pastries and a choice of teas (and optional Champagne), is a notable offering.
The drinks list spans fine wines, ales, cocktails, spirits and non-alcoholics, with a convivial bar ambience ideal for pre- or post-meal drinks. Private dining rooms and event spaces are available for up to 75 guests, making the Priory Restaurant suitable for special occasions as well as casual meals.
Priory Restaurant delivers polished yet relaxed dining in atmospheric, historic surroundings, drawing both hotel residents and town visitors seeking quality food and authentic Hertfordshire hospitality.