From chef Andrew Hern, who is best known for his Michelin-starred pub The Star Inn at nearby Harome, The Star Inn The Harbour is relaxed restaurant in Whitby, which champions Yorkshire produce. Located just a stone’s throw from the water’s edge, the restaurant has wonderful views of Whitby’s harbour and beyond and also boasts a small outdoor area, which can be used during the summer. The brasserie-style restaurant has a daily specials board on top of its all-day a la carte menu, meaning that there are always new and interesting dishes on offer at The Star Inn The Harbour.
The restaurant’s interiors have a distinct maritime theme to them with rope hanging from the impressive wooden ceiling and a central wooden pole which is reminiscent of a sail. Otherwise, the décor is distinctly pubby, with tartan carpets, leather banquettes and wooden furniture. Large picture windows provide plenty of light and also ensure that diners can always see the harbour from their table.
While the food menu at The Star Inn The Harbour certainly has a focus on local seafood, there are also plenty of meat options as well as vegan and vegetarian friendly dishes. Starters on the all-day menu include deep-fried calimari with marsh samphire and quid ink aioli, seasalt-cured ‘bresaola’-style beef with a Lindisfarne oyster Fritter, Leeds pecorino and a black truffle dressing, and a prawn and oak smoked salmon cocktail with bloody Mary sorbet. Main courses range from traditional battered cod and chips, made using a gluten free batter, to a luxurious 'surf n' snout' which features seared scallops, black treacle pork belly and scratchings. Classic puddings which have been given a modern twist include a knickerbocker glory.
The food is accompanied by an impressive selection of wines, as well as beers on tap, a variety of spirits, soft drinks and more.