The top bars and restaurants to try right now in Harrogate and Ripon

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17 Miles

17 Miles is a stylish independent bar located on the lively Cold Bath Road in Harrogate.

Known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, the bar has quickly become a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for a place to enjoy quality drinks in a cosy setting. The interior combines modern and rustic design elements, with exposed brick walls, warm lighting, wooden floors, and large windows that give the space an open yet intimate feel.

The bar specialises in craft and Belgian beers, carefully crafted cocktails, and a well-selected wine list. Many of the drinks come from independent breweries or creative seasonal flavours, giving customers something different from the typical pub menu. The bartenders are known for their friendly service and knowledge of the drinks they serve, often helping guests choose something new to try.

Despite its modern style, the bar maintains a laid-back neighbourhood feel where people can meet friends, go on casual dates, or unwind after work. It is also dog-friendly, which adds to its relaxed character and makes it a welcoming place for the local community.

Overall, 17 Miles offers a combination of quality drinks, comfortable surroundings, and a friendly atmosphere, making it one of the distinctive small bars that contribute to Harrogate’s vibrant social scene. View more photos of the bar on its Instagram page @17milesharrogate.

17 Miles, 17 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 0LH, visit the website.

The Old Deanery 

The Old Deanery is a fine dining restaurant with rooms in the heart of Ripon, housed within a Jacobean mansion, located in the shadows of Ripon Cathedral.

Warm and welcoming, with Adam Jackson leading the kitchen brigade, the restaurant has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes, a Michelin recommendation, and is even listed in the Harden’s top 100 UK restaurants list.

The ambiance and service are relaxed and friendly; the food may be formal, but the atmosphere is not.

Start in the warm and cosy Welcome Lounge with its big comfy sofas, before moving into either the dark and atmospheric Chef’s Lounge or the light and refined dining room for your meal. If time allows, retire into the cool cinema room lounge for after-dinner drinks.

The Old Deanery also boasts 11 individually styled bedrooms, and all room bookings include its unique breakfast banquet, which has to be seen to be believed!

As an independently-owned family business, you may well meet the owners’ toddler and small dog during your visit.

The Old Deanery, Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QS, 01765 600 003, visit the website.

Champagne + Fromage

Set on Harrogate’s historic Royal Parade, Champagne + Fromage is a chic bistro-style restaurant that brings a taste of France to the heart of the town. Known for pairing premium Champagnes with artisan cheeses and carefully curated charcuterie boards, it has quickly become a favourite for both locals and visitors seeking a unique and indulgent dining experience.

The interior combines cosy French bistro charm with modern touches – think exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and intimate seating – creating the perfect setting for sharing plates and sipping Champagne. Guests can enjoy everything from fondue, baked Camembert, and raclette to seasonal French snacks, each thoughtfully paired with sparkling and fine wines.

The knowledgeable staff guide diners through pairings and menu choices, helping to make each visit memorable. With its inviting atmosphere, focus on high-quality ingredients, and emphasis on social, shared dining, Champagne + Fromage stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to combine great food with exceptional drinks in Harrogate.

Champagne + Fromage, 2 Royal Parade, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ, 01423 500 123, visit the website.

Harrogate Brewing Co

Set on the historic Royal Parade in the heart of Harrogate, this characterful pub blends centuries of heritage with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Part of the family-run and award-winning Harrogate Brewing Co., it serves beer brewed just a short distance away, meaning the pints are always fresh and proudly local.

Alongside a strong line-up of independent and award-winning ales, the kitchen turns out classic British pub favourites made with ingredients sourced from local farms — think hearty pies, beer-battered fish and chips, and traditional Sunday roasts. A popular favourite, the rich short rib beef pie with Harrogate beer gravy is freshly made in-house. The brewery influence even extends to dessert, with sticky toffee pudding topped with a sauce made using Harrogate Salted Caramel Porter.

The pub is dog-friendly, hosts live music every Saturday and welcomes everything from casual drop-ins to larger gatherings. It's become a firm favourite for those seeking great beer and comforting food in a cosy, sociable setting.

Harrogate Brewing Co, 6 Royal Parade, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ, 01423 638 789, visit the website.

Papa's Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant

A beloved spot among locals and visitors alike, Papa’s Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant is a family-run restaurant with many of its dishes cooked from recipes that have been handed down from previous generations.

Focusing on the abundant and rich flavours from the Mediterranean, diners can pick from its mezze menus including fish, meat, cheese and vegetarian and share them among friends and family. There are also chef's specials with platters to dine from.

The décor also reflects the vibrant cultures of the Mediterranean, while management pride themselves on their attentive and friendly service.

Papa’s Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant also offers a take-out service.

Papa’s Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant, 11A Princes Square, Harrogate, HG1 1ND, 01423 506 444, visit the website.

Jodhpur

Located on Station Parade in the centre of Harrogate, Jodhpur offers a vibrant dining experience inspired by the colours, culture and atmosphere of the historic city of Jodhpur, famously known as the “Blue City". 

The restaurant brings together authentic Indian cuisine with warm hospitality and a lively ambience that reflects its rich heritage. It is one of two Jodhpur restaurants, alongside its sister branch in Leeds, extending its distinctive culinary presence across the region.

The menu celebrates the diversity of Indian flavours, featuring dishes prepared with traditional spices, fresh ingredients and time-honoured techniques. 

Guests can enjoy everything from street food-style starters to classic curries, fragrant biryanis and freshly baked naan breads. Jodhpur serves the Indian Thali platter on weekend lunch offering a selection of dishes served together — an ideal way to experience a variety of flavours in one meal.

Popular among locals and visitors alike, Jodhpur is known for its authentic food, welcoming service and vibrant atmosphere.

Jodhpur, 4-5 Station Parade, Harrogate, HG1 1UF, 01423 550 792, visit the website.