Harbar Bistro in Poole

Came for lunch with my girlfriend and her grandma, we called up the day before and tried to book a table for 2pm but were told we wouldn't be able to get a table booking until 3pm as they were booked up. (when we arrived there were only 3 other tables taken up in the large restaurant so we were unsure why they hadn't let us book any earlier as there was definitely space). We arrived at 3:10pm (10 mins late) due to grandma's mobility issues, we were apologetic for being late when we arrived and shown to our table, where the set menu was already on the table for us. As we sat down the waiter came straight over and told us we had to order immediately as the kitchen was closed and they would have to reopen for us but we had to be quick! Very surprising since there was no indication when we booked the day before that the kitchen would be shutting within minutes of our booking. The manager came up to our waiter and told him to 'get our orders in now and not mess around' whilst he was speaking to us and it all felt very hostile once we had entered - my poor girlfriends grandma didn't have time to even sit down and read the full menu before the waiter was rushing her, telling her he needed to take her order. We said the starters and mains we wanted and then I asked my girlfriend if she would like to get desserts or not, at which point the waiter told us desserts were not available! He then walked off without giving us a drinks menu or taking a drinks order from us. When the starters came I asked to see a drinks menu and get some water for the table but he never returned - we had to go to the bar to get drinks ourselves. Fortunately at the main course we had a new waitress who was lovely and she brought water over to our table. During the main course we heard the table behind us talking to the manager and they all ordered desserts, even though we had been told they were not available to us! When we had finished our mains the nice waitress came to take our plates and asked if we would like a desserts menu, we told her we had been informed desserts were not available and she was a little surprised by this and apologised. We paid the bill and left. Had it not been for the saving grace of the nice waitress we would have refused the service charge as the service we received prior to her arriving was abysmal. Very, very annoyed in particular by my poor girlfriends grandma being rushed by the waiter to order food before she had even sat down or had the chance to ask for a glass of water, not really acceptable to do to anyone but especially not a 90 year old. The bill was expensive for just a lunch but the food was good and the view is spectacular, the service just really let the restaurant down. Would not go back.

This restaurant has now changed to ‘Almafi View’ with an Italian menu. We called in on the off chance and were immediately seated in the window with a spectacular view over Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island. There are Rosemary bread sticks on the table as an entree. The food was excellent. We had a charcuterie board to start which was generous is side and was more than enough for the 3 of us. For mains I had the lasagne, my wife the spinach and ricotta cannelloni and daughter the kids pizza. All were freshly cooked, and really tasty. Portions were generous and flavours good. We had a side of garlic bread which was huge and a side salad. Service as good and speedy but not rushed. Prices were reasonable. About £15 for pasta / pizza dish average. We didn’t have alcoholic drinks so can’t comment on prices of drinks. Parking was available but car park was quite full. All in all a great evening and recommended for both the food and view!

One of the best Sunday roasts in town! Service was really good , gluten option which helped with my mother.

4 of us arrived having booked a table or lunch. We asked to sit outside as the weather was nice was was told we couldn't by the manager. He tried to seat us on a table in a dark corner but we eventually convinced him to move us to a brighter area near the door. He was very impolite and short with us from the moment we walked in. The food was good and the other members of staff were friendly. Young and clearly learning but not bad at their jobs. What was evident however, is the clear lack of respect and support from their manager. He was very rude to them and expected a lot from a team clearly under trained. After lunch, we asked to sit outside for coffee. The manager then proceeded to make a whole song and dance about how we had to pay first before we could move and was generally quite rude about it. When he did eventually bring the bill, he was almost flustered and rushed- more worried about continuing to harass his staff. He was so scruffy, with his shirt hanging out and unironed trousers. The overall experience should have been and could have been so much nicer for the price especially. As I said, the food was nice and well served. Just the manager in our section brought down the whole atmosphere unfortunately.

The two courses we had were fine - pork belly and stone bass. The view was lovely. But oh dear, the service was incredibly slow. We arrived at 7.30 - restaurant had six other tables occupied- so not busy all evening. By 8.15 we had to ask to order our food- they said they would find someone- 15 minutes later we asked again. The meal itself was very nicely cooked and presented. Then we had a long wait again to order pudding. Tiramisu and affogato. It took three hours in all! We weren’t expecting fast food but it was the total lack of attention by the staff- plenty wandering around the periphery of the room and wiping tables but to have to ask for everything isn’t acceptable. It’s a shame as we are locals and would otherwise have been returning customers, but given the experience last night I think it unlikely that we would visit again.

Outstanding views but the food was a let down. Overpriced pasta dishes and probably the worst creme brulee I have ever tasted.

Had an amazing anniversary dinner here the view is stunning and we watched the sun go down while we ate. Food was a beautiful looking delicious array of tastes and textures. Service was impeccable and friendly. Thoroughly enjoyable experience.

We had a fantastic time here. All the staff were lovely and very attentive. The food for our anniversary meal was outstanding to say the least. An amazing experience, and we will definitely be returning here and I can highly recommend this to all

Chef Lawton that came this Summer is gone again (after 3 months ?). May be not a celeberty chef here now but the food was excellent (20-11-2021). The menu is not big , but enough choice, check it out, it is on-line. The service was pleasant, started with a bread basket and a good choice of wines. The starters were excellent as were the main courses. We will be back regularly again as we had a great evening here with friends.

Not impressed - an open top ONE slice of bread sandwich with a bit of goats cheese and side salad costing £14. If you are going to charge this price then at least provide a clean table or a table cloth and decent service! The restaurant only had a few customers at the time of our visit, yet the service was pretty appalling as once we had made our initial order we didn't see the waiter for dust who didn't even bother to clear our table and we had to chase him down for the bill. Perhaps we may have ordered more if he had asked? Neither did I expect to have to go to the front desk to pay - normally a waiter would bring the card machine as standard to the table!

We were on holiday in the area and it was my wife’s birthday. She was nervous of eating indoors and so I searched for restaurants that could combine special occasioness with outdoor dinning and hit upon what is now called Mark Lawton at The View Restaraunt . When we booked we were told there was no availability for dinner, but they could do lunch. We went ahead. However, on the day, it was windy so we had to eat indoors. OK, there was nothing that could be done about that. Prices on the menu were expensive and so we expected something special. We both ordered the slow cooked neck of lamb. Slow turned out to be the key word. Positives: The view from the dinning room is amazing over Pool Harbour Good range of soft drinks The complementary appetizer of mushroom soup was delicious Coffee with a dash of cream was good. Negatives While the accomplishment to the lamb dish were very nice and tasty, the lamb was tough with an unpleasant texture and fatty. The fat had not been rendered and the meat suffered from being cooked in a water bath. Basically the sort of poor cooking that gets contestants thrown out of Masterchef. Coupled with that there was not much on the plate. A lot of style over substance. Poor value for money. While on booking, both the occasion and food allergies were noted, no reference at was made to this during the meal.

The most incredible meal we’ve had recently anywhere. Far more exquisite than we had imagined. The presentation was beautiful and the service slick. Lovely little extra touches made this a truly memorable meal with family. Excellent all round.

Harbar bistro is NOW called : the VIEW. and it lives up to its name ! We had a Sunday lunch and the food was EXCELLENT, great Sunday lunch. The beef was wonderfull accompanied by three veg and good roast potatoes. The Creme Brulee dessert was sumptious ! Thank you chef !

We had a GREAT lunch in this restaurant. As perhaps people know this was a chinese for some months except on Sundays, but the chinese is moving out and Harbar Bistro will be re-instated in February. Great views over Poole harbour. The food today, a set lunch, was great, starter, main and dessert, thank you Chef(s). Definitely recommendable.

Since Ocean Palace took over the main restaurant the bistro menu has shrunk. We went in today to sit on the terrace in the sun, the menu has become so small it’s not much more than a sandwich menu. So disappointing, service was non existent, we had to order our own drinks at the bar. Only about ten people on the terrace which says it all....it was always packed even in the middle of the week. 4 people in the Chinese so even that’s not busy. Such a shame as we used to bring business acquaintances here for food and drink....not any more.

Let's do the easy bit; food not bad, small portions and top end price but quite good. The rest was so bad it was comical. This restaurant is part of the hotel. We booked a table via reception at their sister hotel, the Sandbank for 8.30. Our taxi was a bit late and we got there at 8.40 ish. Sat down and we were immediately told that we needed to order as the kitchen was closing. I specifically asked if would be rushed or disadvantaged and was assured we wouldn't. Starters arrived within seconds (how long had they been sitting around). Someting simple, we weren't sure how much rice to order. We were told don't worry you could always ask for more. When askef if we should have some more; sorry kitchen is closed. We were eating before we had any drinks and in fact before we had cutlery. Water we had asked for took about four attempts. As i said meal was OK but as we were eating lighting went up and Breakfast was being laid up around us on other tables. Remember the waitress said we wouldn't be disadvantaged; wrong, sorry no deserts the kitchen is closed but we could find some ice cream. OMG this place is badly run why on earth did they take our booking and why did the sister hotel, The Sandbank make it.

I am a local who has been coming here for years. These days I come for the views and definitely not the service. This is a common view held amongst all of us who live locally and unfortunately the other reviews reflect this point (we can't ALL be wrong). Some specific examples: 1. staff generally disinterested and slow; 2. one male staff member more interested in chatting up two other female staff members on the restaurant floor rather than serving anyone; 3. noisy baby seagull outside attracted to hang around because tables were not being cleared and this resulted in it and its parents clearly up leftovers (at the same as smashing numerous glasses and defecating); 4. Asked for water with drinks - never delivered; 5. other tables were complaining audibly about the lack of service; 6. no manager on hand to deal with other table's complaints. When the service levels are this bad something drastic clearly needs to happen but it's been so bad for sooooo long now that I guess it won't change anytime soon. Fortunately on a sunny evenign the view remains amazing, but if the service was good they would be a lot busier and make more money. I know a redevelopment of the property is on the cards so perhaps this is a deliberate tactic to try and run the place down. It wouldn't surprise me because some elements of the service left Fawlty Towers looking good. Many of the staff, seemed genuinely disinterested to the extent that if you are not being served it makes it difficult to rate the service

Writing about a Valentines mea which was very well done. Attentive service, not too matey. Delicious chosen table d'hote menu . Small portions but very tasty. Would recommend when they are doig "gala" nights. Fully priced but worth it.

What a delightful setting,spotless restaurant,outstanding service,and quality food with 4 star presentation.We prebooked on a Sunday evening,yes you need to at busy times,7.30.We were greeted on arrival,shown to our table,presented with the menu,limited but a good chice for all.Seabass fillet,new potatoes and fresh vegatables for my wife,Sorloin steak,for myself,all very,very good.A bottle of wine,and table water to wash it down.The room was airy,with scenic views out to sea,with yachts sailing by,far reaching views to Brownsea island.

Birthday lunch with friends. 1st visit. Plenty of parking. Attentive staff, and very friendly too. Food was delicious. We had salt cooked beetroot & goats cheese mousse salad - wonderful, but tiny portions! Linguine, and the burger & fries. All very very good. Followed by ice cream. Service was brilliant. Our waitress was relatively new but knew everything on the menu & nothing was too much trouble. Very long lunch on a gloriously sunny day just soaking in the breathtaking views, and what some views there are. Amazing. Only downside apart from portion size was the seagull family who were a nuisance. Swooped onto neighbouring table as soon as vacated & devoured what was on plates. Messed on table next to us and was a bit shocked that the waiter used a tea towel rather than a paper towel to clear up mess as presumably this was washed & reused - ugh! That aside a wonderful visit and intend to visit again

The ambience and views are fantastic in this Bistro which is part of the hotel, we have been staying at this establishment for years , the food on our last visit was overpriced and average so we found ourselves dinning at Loch Fyne just 8 minutes walk away and we found the fish was excellent and well priced , I do hope things inprove because the views over to Brownsea Island are the best in the area , to conclude the staff are friendly and helpful and the breakfast is very good.

Staying at sister hotel Sandbanks I had pre-booked Harbar Restaurant for my birthday.We arrived early and enjoyed drinks overlooking Poole Harbour and awaiting the lovely sunset. With this over, we took our seats at a table near the glass front wall on a fairly quiet night with just about ten others present.Both of us fancied only a main course and my wife chose the Dorset crab Thermidor with chips and salad, while I had Aberdeen Angus Beef Fillet, chips, mushroom and watercress. Both dishes were nicely presented, delicious and filling.Unfortunately our wine arrived half way through the meal after several reminders. While this didn't spoil an excellent meal, it did make us wonder how staff could possibly have coped with a full house instead of just ten or so diners. Our bill was £102 including tip and well worth a visit.

We’ve been coming here for years, and the standard of service has sadly declined, especially if you are eating or drinking on the terrace. It’s not that they’re awful, just a bit hap hazard and lazy. We keep coming because the view is the star, and the food is good. If you appreciate that before you come then you’ll enjoy your visit!

We are locals and this place has the terrace to die for in Poole. It’s the best spot, high up and with great views. You would have thought therefore they would have cornered the market on sunny days lunches either personal or business.

Dined here tonight with two friends. Shown to a table, and then ignored for forty minutes. We ordered our food when the drinks order was taken, concerned that we would not see our server again soon. After another twenty minutes, drinks and food were served simultaneously. Food was OK, but we felt the staff could have made more of an effort.

Looked forward to checking out this iconic outdoor patio overlooking the harbour from up on the hill. Great view! However; this is where my disappointments started. When I walked in I was the one who greeted the staff who obviously cared more about having a conversation amougnst themselves = strike 1. Asked if we could have a table on the outside deck, they pointed and said yes out there like we have been kept in a friggin’ time capsule and this was our first time seeing an outside deck. Thanks for the staff pointing outside = strike 2. After waiting for about 8 minutes, someone happened by when they delivered some food to another table. I asked the young lady if we could have the wine and lunch menu and she said absolutely, but someone else will have to get it...???...okay = strike 3. My friend and I chatted while waiting at which point a somewhat annoyed server (who was part 1 of the 2 in the staff conversation upon arriving) came out and provided us with a lunch menu. I asked about Sauvignon Blancs to which she responded that yes they have some. Okay just one choice and not the several global versions I happened to see on the way in, so I thought to myself - sorry to bother you = strike 4. A server should be cheerful upon meeting their prospective tippers and should know what kinds of SB’s are on the menu and give the “guest” a upbeat description of their options which could translate in to a higher tip with an enjoyable meal. Not so much here = strike 5. Ultimately, we received 2 glasses of SB, and I asked when yet another server brought our drinks if we could order some starters to which they stated “I will get someone”. Wow...how many staff do they keep in the balfreys of this place? They seemed to only have a one-way job. Oh well, yet another one arrives and I ordered the baked Camembert with onion marmalade along with the fish and chips (see pics). I must give them a plus for eventually bringing out the Camembert before our meals (which I requested) which then arrived 5 minutes later like they were about to close and wanted us out of there. Needless to say I was not happy at this point, we ate and left. Only one person checked on us after our meals arrived who was actually clearing a nearby table and not our original server. Overall, I’ve experienced high and low end restaurants around the world, and now this is in my Top 10 of Where not to Eat globally. Dear Management: Retrain your staff in something called “Guest Service” and they may return or even rave about your location. 2 points for a Great view. Loss of points for terrible service..needs improvement!

My wife and I were staying in the Harbour heights hotel so decided to eat in the restaurant as well. Reading the reviews we were hoping we didn’t get an off day.

We had a lovely Sunday lunch with very attentive waiters and waitresses even though there was also a wedding reception . Stupid me did not thoroughly check my bill before giving a generous tip only to realise I was charged a discretionary 12.5%. I will be more alert next time. The staff must have had more traing because you could not fault them.

We chose this venue as a lunch treat for family visiting from New Zealand. The view is terrific, but the service was very poor. Two of our four meals were incorrect when they finally arrived. The chicken breasts were overcooked and dry. Bacon was overcooked and would not cut. I asked for salt and pepper and only pepper arrived. After our first course I asked to see the menu for sweets, but in the end I had to find some myself. To save time I walked inside and paid the bill, then my guests were challenged for payment as we got up to leave. I knew it was expensive, but this visit was not worth it.

This hotel and restaurant is in a fantastic position with beautiful views but the staff and service let the experience down badly.

We had lunch on the terrace yesterday and had the pleasure to be greeted and taken care of by Sophie. What a gem, it is rare to receive such attentive and gracious service.

My family and I are regular five star establishment customers.

I can only agree with the majority of the reviews below, in that we have just returned from a Wednesday evening dinner feeling really disappointed, cheated and under-valued as a customer. The service really was shocking. I would be ashamed to be any of the service staff there tonight. The management should be completely embarrassed. The (one of many) low-lights for us was being seated and having our wine order taken (by the manager!), only to be informed 20 minutes later (after chasing our drinks order twice), that our bottle of wine was out of stock. The waitress who came to tell us this sad news shrugged and said, and I quote, that she had been 'sent to deal with us' by her manager in order to take a new order. I was personally stunned and really upset by this. I would never expect to feel either of these things at a place where we are paying £100+ for a meal for two. Disgusting. Will not be returning and would not recommend to anyone. I could do a better job myself, alone. It doesn't take much to make a customer feel valued, regardless of how busy or under-staffed you are. People will forgive a lot, but not how you leave them feeling.

The setting is second to none , the food was average and overpriced and the service shocking . This was noted by the other dinners around us too all complaining to the point of walking out . The service has no idea how to deliver the service per ranking the restaurant has . Very very disappointed

We have had dinner at the Harbour Heights Restaurant twice and the food was good. However, I noted that the reviews were very mixed. I therefore decided to have a meal to check out the restaurant before arranging a future meal with several friends. I am glad I did this. The service was not just bad but almost non-existent. No one greeted us at the reception. I had to go and find somebody to show us to a table. We asked if we could eat indoors, but have a drink on the balcony first. Nobody came to serve us. After 25 minutes I stopped a waiter and asked to give our order. Nothing happened. It was clear that others were experiencing very slow service too. One person got up and took his menu to the bar to get some service. Eventually we gave up and left.

Called in here on a gloriously sunny Saturday for lunch, not booked but were able to get a table on the terrace despite there being a wedding taking place on part of the terrace. The view from here is difficult to beat and complemented with such amazing weather leaves me wondering why I travel around the world when I have this on my doorstep.

The Harbour Heights is an institution. It has been a great place to visit over the years and a place we have regularly brought friends, particularly from abroad. The view is stupendous and the food and service were reliable. If I am honest I may have awarded fewer “stars” if the view, decor and atmosphere had not been still so good.

About a year ago went to Harbour Heights for an afternoon tea with family to celebrate a birthday. We returned today for the same celebration. Service awful, had to stand waiting to be acknowledged and to be shown to our table. Male waiter rude and...

My wife and I visited Harbour Heights restaurant last Saturday. We had visited previously and had good service so were expecting, and willing to splash out for, a nice evening. It fell short of our expectations on many levels. When we were shown to the...

The evening meal was one of the best I have had at a British Hotel for this very reasonable price, less than £25. Mushroom and garlic soup was warming filling and very tasty, ideal for the freezing and snowy conditions. The main of Baked Pollock...

Came for lunch. Venue is quite stale. Food was average. Service was ok but not sharp. No desire to return. Might be ok for work or taking the grandparents out.

Imaginitive menu, first rate service. Mood music from saxophonist. Extensive wine list if a little pricey. Left felling pampered. Good atmosphere.

I have a kind sister who purchased a £50 monetary gift voucher for my wife and I at the Harbour Heights Hotel, Poole, Dorset . Unfortunately we are both very busy people and spend a lot of time travelling so to try and arrange something...

My family wanted to celebrate our daughter's graduation from BU, we left it a bit late but (fortunately) found the Harbar Bistro could give us a late lunch booking; what a find! Great service, great food and stunning views over Poole Harbour

Had dinner in the restaurant recently and the service from the friendly waiting staff was very good. The food the starters and sweets were good, but the main courses, especially the pork tenderloin, which was slightly dry was only average.

We had lunch midweek in the dining room of the Harbour Heights Hotel - the Harbar Bistro. The outlook is...

Always love to return to harbour heights Been 3 times in the last 2 weeks food is well accomplished wine...

2nd visit to this hotel for afternoon tea as beautiful views if brownsea island. First visit not great but put...

Parece mobiliario nuevo por dentro y por fuera. Tomar una copa en la terraza antes de cenar. Sorprendentemente tranquilo en la semana. Personal vagas sobre si quiere ser servido en el bar o fuera. Después de una larga espera fuimos al bar y sólo me...

Empezamos en el bar de la terraza con nuestro grupo para bebidas antes de la cena. Vistas y un gran ambiente.

Fue traído aquí como una sorpresa para el día de la madre, y fue fantástico. Unas vistas fantásticas, una comida y un día memorable y relajante. . Espero poder volver muy pronto.

Hemos sido clientes habituales aquí durante años. Esto, sin embargo, fue una comida horrible que quizás refleja los cambios son dentro de este grupo. No eran la única mesa quejándose de nuestra comida. En nuestro caso, fue una langosta termidor que era difícil y servido con más salsa y maloliente gloopy cata, a diferencia de los que habíamos tenido allí anteriormente. En nuestro caso, y eso de la otra mesa, pobre asistente fue forzado a defender un jefe que vio 'nada malo". Nuestra comida no fue cargado para después de un intercambio de palabras fuertes, sin embargo lo que habla volúmenes es que el lugar está en decadencia, y la actitud y la moral del personal es alta (el gerente del hotel es en negación como el piensa lo contrario en un correo electrónico a la defensiva). Lo único bueno de esta experiencia fue el pan y agua - usted puede sacar sus conclusiones de que! Triste, porque siempre hemos disfrutado de este lugar y ahora nunca volveremos, y no recomendamos otros se someten a la misma experiencia.

This place is so dissapointing, you would think it would offer a great service and atmosphere given its location and prices, sorry to say that's not the case. Been twice with my parner, both times service has been terrible. This last time we were practically thrown out of a table (that did not have a reserved sign) in a very disrespectuful way, ordered a capuccino and it tasted like watered-down milk, and waiters don't even notice you.

Really nice lunch, the menu was set with four to six choices per course. The prices were good. Service was really good, I'd suggest always booking a table. There were also stunning views from the terrace of Poole Harbour.

My partner and I attended on Friday the 28th for a drink in the bar and was hoping for a nice relaxing atmosphere, but instead we got to witness the manager shouting around at guests, not something we was expecting to walk in to. I would strongly advise giving this place a miss

We visit the Harbour Heights most weekends and have noticed a decline in the service, we have put up with that as the atmosphere was still good and so was the food, well until this weekend. My wife and I had the sharer meal which was beef and cost around £70. The meat was terrible very fatty and was nearly raw even though we asked for well done. After the meal we decided to have a drink in the lounge area, but all we could here is people arguing with the beverage manger trying to get a refund for a Robbie Williams tribute act, the beverage manager was absolutely useless at trying to diffuse the situation and was walking away from people whilst they was still talking. We will not be attending again after this weekend.

called in for a refreshment and snack.Waited absolutely ages to be served then they forgot about us so we left.Gone downhill since our last visit which is sad as the views are great.The reception staff were unfreindly as was the service staff.Toilets were not the usual cleanliness .

Stayed at this hotel for 3 nights recently and have stayed before when visiting Poole. The views are amazing but am afraid food and service has declined apart from breakfast. We had lunch on the terrace when we arrived as it was a lovely sunny day but you have to go inside to order your drinks and food. In the evening we had a meal but food and service not good. Next morning the breakfast was good and service great. In the evening had a drink in the bar area but had to queue for a long time which is not good. The staff could not cope and not trained properly. A gentleman ordered champagne but the young girl did not know to serve champagne in flute glasses. Not her fault just needed better training to work in a bar.

Disappointed overall. Sadly with such a beautiful location and views.I had booked for family Easter Sunday via the online booking via Open Table. The sample menu price for Sunday lunch was £26, so a bit of a surprise to find on Easter Sunday that had jumped to £34.50 for two courses because it was Easter Sunday. We did raise this as there had been nothing obvious when we booked and the waitress simply shrugged and said that this was the Sunday menu.The cured trout starter was nice and well presented, the Roast beef, no different from a decent pub these days. One member of our party ordered lamb and they didn't have any mint sauce, my girlfriend is vegan and had contacted them earlier in the week to ensure they could cater for her. They said they did, but the waitress clearly indicated the kitchen didn't really cater for vegetarians and vegans. Nothing had been prepared and so her main course was a small portion of risotto and left her quite hungry, with only a small green salad to start, hardly good value at £34.50!The service was erratic at best, we had to ask several times for the water for the table. When we left and had paid I was told by another couple that the drinks they had ordered at the bar and paid for there, which were subsequently delivered to the table had been charged again to the bill. I asked why they didn't raise it at the time, but they said by that point they couldn't be bothered to argue.Overall we felt quite let down and disappointed.It is a beautiful location and some of the accommodation offers on the website quite look good. It may not have the views, and is not local to Poole, but as a contrast try The New Queen at Sopley as a contrast. Superb service and excellent food, beautifully presented.

Eaten here many times. This time as part of a business function, which is always difficult catering for about 100 covers. Food and service was good. Food was tasty, hot, and fresh. Staff attentive. Highly recommended once again

Due to a mix up with original booking (my mistake not theirs)The Restaurant manager at the time, fixed the problem very quickly, with the minimum of fuss and to the satisfaction of those of us concerned. Thank you Carl.The meal was outstanding and considering how busy the restaurant was, we didn't wait very long from the time our order had been taken, to the time our meals arrived at table.The staff were friendly and helpful. The view from the restaurant across to Brownsea Island is unforgettable. Thank you to the Hotel and staff..

Food Service and for Lunch excellent value for money. Yes it's a hotel style and slightly more formal but when you are sitting looking over the bay towards Brownsea there can vibe few unparalleled views. Ver relaxed but efficient style. Portions are not excessive and done to perfection. Just a great experience

Five of us dined here last week, the food and service were second to none! The setting sets the tone of this beautiful hotel & restaurant! I had the ham croquettes as a starter followed by the best rib steak I have ever had! Everyone cleared their plates.The service in this hotel was remarkabley friendly! The front office manager was charming in organising transport for us and the restaurant staff were on hand without bothering us, we had a lot of catching up to do.I would recommend a visit to this hotel for a quality, too notch experience!

We phoned about 11am on Saturday morning and was pleasantly surprised to be able to book a tablet of four for 1.15. There was a warm welcome and were shown to a good table with a sea view. The menu had about 7 or so choices of both starters and mains. It was all very good and the Hake was exceptional. By 2pm the place was full so we realised we were lucky to have got a table when we did. Will definitely return next time we are in Poole.

Went for lunch on 2nd March thankfully a sunny day so we had great views from our table. Very good meal, especially pleased with the rhubarb dessert, how often do you see rhubarb on a menu? Main fish courses were good quality and teamed with the right additions. Good friendly efficient staff, we will go again. Best view and food in the harbour.

Not first time here, but time for a review ! After a starter of fish soup (very nice) and lemon cured salmon, we had as main course Confit of Duck.Absolutely great, well prepared, great taste and very nicely presented.

We booked a weekend lunch for my elderly mother's birthday. I must first say that the hotel is blessed with superb views across the bay & we were lucky that it was a clear day. We were travelling from afar so booked a table for 1415. As traffic was bad , we called in advance to say that we were running 10 mins later & arrived at 1425. Unfortunately, the reception that we received from the restaurant staff was appalling. After being kept standing around for 15 mins , we were eventually advised that the lunch restaurant menu had finished & were offered an 'all day menu' which was very limited to say the least especially for a special occasion. This despite the staff still serving other tables. However , we had to make do and the food was actually very good. However , my point is that whilst the hotels enjoys a fabulous location , this is not matched with the customer service. We called ahead to advise them were running a few minutes late and were very disappointed to be treated so poorly when we arrived. The uncaring attitude of the staff does match the hotel / restaurant's ambiance I'm afraid. Neil

We have visited several times as we are local,but our recent visit was not of the normal high service.My wine glass was dirty and bar lounge area needed clearing.There appeared to be too few staff so we just had a drink and left

Went for Valentines night. Expensive but very well thought out table d'hote menu including glass of champagne. Portions medium size, quality ingredients nicely presented. Chef cares what he does.Wine list starting at £24 slightly strangely organised. Would rather go through country by country.Formal well trained waiting staff. Good unappreciated pianist. Did not begrudge bill at end which is always a sign of a satisfied customer. Event well supported. Pleasant buzz in restaurant. Mrs Aldhelm pleased so win win all round.

My daughter and i had a 3 course lunch and the food was beautiful, accompanied by superb service from Heidi from Hungary!A lovely dining experience mid week...

I live just down the road from here,, used to go here a lot years ago but then hadn't been back to eat for years. Booked a table here and was most impressed, the place was full but service was great and I must say the food was the best I have had for a very long time.It's not cheap but it really isn't much more than these wine bar restaurants that are everywhere now... so all in all great service and absolutely first class food.

I visit this restaurant a lot, but after tonight never again. The service was shocking I've never had to top my own champagne up in a restaurant of this level and the staff never even asked throughout the meal if everything was ok. To add insult to injury they embarrassed us by messing the bill up and chasing us outside to pay the difference. The new manager is a waste of space and not capable or qualified for the role

My family had dinner here as part of the hotel's 'Winter Warmer' stay deal. It would be quite hard to fault the food, service or location - so I won't! A really good experience that I would recommend and good value as part of an accommodation package at the hotel.

I had quite possibly the experience of bad service today . I was gobsmacked. We arrived for lunch with my mum who was 80 today , i live far away and dont get to see my mum as much as i would like so it was a special day all round. Three of us had lunch, mums friend ordered the fish which was lovely , the menu was very limited so mum and I opted for steak, in a nutshell it was tasteless and not cooked as we asked . We also had to wait an hour for it and we didn't have a starter so we just sat there. the staff were unattentive and had a couldn't care less attitude. We hardly touch our steak and asked to have a word with the manager .He was worse ! he came over and , said that many people had the beef and didn't complain,we ask why we had to wait an hour when it wasn't even busy , he said he would look into it ,I asked if he could go and find out and he said he didnt need to ! it wouldn't make any difference!, he asked us if we were having pudding and said it would be free.Really smug bad attitude , then i had to wave at the waitress to get the bill she then brought that out with a plate of chocolate truffles with happy birthday on the plate - we were just leaving ! just awful attitude and I am not one to complain . Really came across that they just didn't care, another couple who were near us said they were shocked at the attitude of the staff . Harbour Heights you ruined my mum's birthday lunch with your bad attitude and awful smug manager,

We've been here a few times and this time was no different! Great service and Great food and the views haven't altered either, although I suspect that tree growth on neighbours land may some day affect this aspect!

We didn't stay at the hotel we just came for a casual lunch on a Wednesday. It took a while to get a table that didn't have the air conditioning blowing on us or a draught from the sliding door onto the verandah. The furniture all looks like it needs some tlc, I can't speak about the whole hotel but it is definitely in need of some updating. When we moved tables and asked the waitress she looked very peeved and could hardly acknowledge us the whole time we were there. (tables are not laid out so no extra work involved)The view is incredible and it is such a lovely setting.My mum and I ordered two salads and some chips. My salad was described as a club salad priced at £16! I was expecting something rather special. What arrived was half of the salad leaves, black, soggy and limp. Sliced tomato which was almost translucent it was so old, half an avocado fanned out, a hard boiled egg and a chicken breast, which was whole placed on the top, with two large rashers of bacon.My mums Caesar was slightly better, the leaves were fresher but very poor standard of presentation and terrible value for money. We sent the first undercooked chips back, much to the annoyance of the waitress and what came back were only slightly more cooked.My mum who I was visiting was treating me to this meal and she was upset.I did complain to a much nicer male waiter who got the manager over. The manager was very surly and did not apologise or enter into any discussion other than to say he would halve the price of the salads, we should not have paid anything! I also said we would not be paying for the chips.We certainly will not be returning, what a waste of what could be an incredible place!

This was on 6th September at 19:15 hrs. We did not stay in the hotel but booked a meal in the restaurant to celebrate my wife's birthday. I made this clear when making the booking and requested a table with a good view of the harbour..we ended up in a corner, behind a pillar with restricted view. We both ordered Lobster, only to be told that only one portion was available. When this arrived it was cold inside and the chef offered to put it back under the grill. I declined the offer and ordered a beef dish instead. The beef was fine as was my wife's sea bream. At no time did the manager on duty that night come to the table with any sort of apology.

Went there for the first time on a Sunday for lunch!! We had a good first experience!! They do Sunday set lunch menu it's good value for money!! Good food, good service, very nice location with a very nice view of the harbour!! The terrace outside is also very nice on a sunny day!!

Stunning views but shame about the service. We waited 15 minutes to be served. Our drinks were plonked on the table by a rude waiter. We waited another 15 minutes to order food and gave up and ordered food from the bar. Food over priced and nothing special.

I visited with 2 friends. We walked 8 miles from Bournemounth Beach to Sandbanks and decided to have a well deserved cup of tea after the strong winds and rain last Saturday!We entered the hotel around 3.45pm. Asked the waiter whether we could sit in the restaurant for tea and coffee and possibly some food (depending on menu). The waiter said that as they was a wedding happening at the hotel the restaurant was being prepared for dinner. There were several occupied tables in the restaurant and I was confused as to why he could not seat us. I asked again and he said he had to ask his manager. So we followed him to the bar and heard him ask his manager. His manager said flat out NO. I came forward and asked him 'so there is no place to sit in this entire restaurant/bar area for 3 people looking for some hot drinks?' He paused and then said 'well if there are empty tables you may sit there.'Well that is the most idiotic response. Obviously we weren't going to sit on someone elses' laps! Clearly if the restaurant was heaving we would understand why the waiter would say no, but it was EMPTY bar 4 tables.So the waiter seated us not at in the main restaurant but on a tiny table in the bar. The waiter himself was very timid and sweet so I didn't make anymore fuss. We asked if they had any cakde/desserts that we can order. The waiter said no. I then saw an afternoon tea order being brought out from the kitchen into the restaurant! I then asked how they were serving cakes to other people but not us. The waiter then bought us an afternoon tea menu!We ordered 1 cream tea, a dessert cake plate and 3 teas. They just about all fitted onto our table. We had to hold our plates in our laps to eat. ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS. We felt very stupid! Empty restaurant, yet here we are eating out of our laps. How on earth they can say it's a 4 star establishment is beyond me.

Popped in for a meal without a booking on a crazy busy Bank Holiday weekend, despite this nothing was too much trouble. We were sat and enjoying a wonderful meal with great views of the harbour within minutes of arriving. Staff were professional and friendly, a very enjoyable evening out, thank you.

Superb location, views breathtaking and food good usually... Went for lunch and gave up after waiting 20 plus minutes and asked 2 girls for drinks but English bad and just smiled and walked off, more senior staff who's been there years was approached by me for drinks to be told be with you in a minute, then he continued to go onto others to serve them, shame as special place but service better and more pro in wetherspoons, you expect to see staff floating and they should be on there game but clearly lacking training, went to lovely Thai restaurant in Lilliput instead as with bigger food chains they're consistent,I would go there again but when not hungry or thirsty

lunch was good but sadly not very well presented and why why do you give yorkshire puddings with all roasts surely Beef is the norm.they are so huge and do not go well with Lamb, also although the Creme Brulee tasted very nice not at all well presented on a plain white plate looking most unattractive as your restaurant is not of the cheapest I do feel you could do better oh and just two choices of roast on a sunday could be improved on.

It's always with trepidation that we eat in an hotel restaurant - again disappointment. Our squid in tempura batter starter was as tough as a Wimbledon tennis ball and was not in tempura batter but a milk batter. The duck was precooked and very average. Will not eat here again but will always have a sun-downer on the patio with it's wonderful views and go to finer dining!.

Called in on Friday afternoon ( 12th August 2016 ).We went to the patio area and chose a seat.Just as well the views are glorious because we waited and waited and waited.None of the staff cared a hoot that we were there.Obviously this company has plenty of money or a terrible in house trainer.No eye contact ,no hello nor goodbye.In fact nobody cared.Very sad.It used to be great but now it is just sad.The last time I visited the owner was on site.Today nobody cared.I will not return.I had to walk away and go elsewhere!!!!!!!!!!

This was a visit on a continuing quest to find an excellent Sunday lunch in Poole. Booking and parking were easy and the bar is a large restaurant with views over the harbour and glimpses of Poole bay. Ten out of ten for the view and high marks for friendly staff. Unfortunately only 6/10 for the quality of the food and service. Nice meat and good veg but gravy already poured over meal in kitchen and a rock hard Yorkshire pudding. Can chefs no longer make fresh Yorkshire? Great for families and convenient for hotel residents

Ate here last Saturday (16th July 2016). The weather was gloriusly sunning and the setting on the restauarnt terrace is perfect. I had high expectations! We ordered a sandwich and 4 salads and chicken nuggets with chips. It took 60 mins to arrive once chased. Poor show Haven! This is a fabulous setting and people want to eat here when the weather is great but this restaurant was simply not prepared. It hadn't looked at the weather forecast and staffed accordingly.What made this worse was just a failure to recognise their failure by saying it was too busy. Nothing adjusted on our bill for our trouble, despite a request to reduce it and a note written on the final bill that I signed as a 'resident' Sorry Harbar Bistro but if you want to compete you need to have high standards of service, not smart words when a compliant is made.

Lunch for four on a Sunday with views to die for ! Excellent service, fantastic sirloin of beef and lovely veg and yorkie . Bliss .

I was very pleased with my experience at Harbar Bistro. I have to be gluten free unfortunately, and this was no problem for the Bistro and staff were clearly aware of the requirements and were able to cater to my needs.The food was beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The wine was excellent and the service superb. The decor and atmosphere was great too.The terrace is a delightful place to enjoy a drink before dinner.I lovely experience and looking forward to returning one day when back in the country.

Booked for a group of 4 on Sunday lunch time, in advance they were told I was a vegetarian. Simply not include meat in the sandwiches. After ordering the 'traditional' afternoon tea I was horrified to see a piece of thumbnail sized loose piece of ham stuck to the bottom of my 'vegetarian' cheese sandwich. Clearly the kitchen is violating all food and hygiene laws and preparing meat and vegetarian dishes in the same area and using the same utensils.I told a member of staff who apoligised and took the whole stand of my afternoon tea away and returned with a new one. I was told 'this has been prepared again in a 100% meat free zone'To my horror I yet again found HAM where the sandwiches had been sliced, clearly the same knife had been used to cut ham sandwiches as the one cutting my bread.I warn EVERYONE who has a dietary requirement or dangerous allergies to stay well away from this shocking place, I will be informing Food Standards Agency as if this was a contamination of something someone was allergic too it could of been fatal.(The photo is of the second time I found ham, I was too shocked to take a photo of the first set of sandwiches)

Enjoyed a lovely Saturday evening meal with attentive waiting staff and friendly atmosphere in an elegant setting. Good value as they offer a ser menu which was very good. Would love to return when it is earlier to enjoy the view.

The food was very tasty and very beautifully presented. Service just right - not too fussy but there when needed. The wine list is reasonable. There are bottles under £20 with a good selection between £25 and £30, and beyond if you want. We had the set lunch menu which was good value for the quality of food. The puddings were particularly impressive - portion size was surprisingly generous. The restaurant gets busy so do book and if you can go early before the rush.

Nice restaurant, very attentive service, food was good. My husband was delighted with his choices. My meal was nice but slightly underwhelming because of my choice (forgettable chicken starter), although the rest was good. I would have preferred to have been able to order my food while enjoying an aperitif rather than being shown to our table mid-way through (and we had to carry our drinks to the table, which I was surprised about). Overall a really nice evening.

Ate here on first night of weekend break. Staff polite, attentive and friendly. Choice of starters limited. Food a little pricey but delicious. OH had saddle of venison and I had confit duck leg. OH had a dressed salad also and for dessert 3 scoops blood orange sorbet! Superb! Pleasant surroundings and pianist tinkling the ivories made for a relaxing and enjoyable experience helped by a bin end of Rioja!

We stayed in the Harbour Heights hotel, which is lovely. We decided to have dinner in the Hotels Harbour Bistro on our first night. The service was excellent, but the food was awful. I didn't enjoy my Goats Cheese mousse starter, but that could have been my personal taste. However for the main course my husband and I both had lamb and it was not the best. The food is not cheap, so you expect it to be good, so we were disappointed and wouldn't eat here for dinner again. Though I have to say their breakfast is really impressive, eggs benedict was delicious.

Last minute booking on a Friday night. Arrived, no one at the hotel reception so wandered in to find restaurant, luckily have been few times before so new the way. Into bar area to be met by a waiter, to check our reservation, no offer to take my wet umbrella from me, and when I asked he just plonked it by the till. Restaurant fairly busy. Menus given no chat, not asked for drinks just water, waited .....cam e to ask for our food order, said hadn't been asked for drinks yet! Drinks arrived, came back for food order asked what is the soup, didn't know, asked another waiter didn't know! Whole service was rushed as one course was taken the next arrived! I finished my glass of wine during my starter and no one asked if I wanted another so had my main with nothing! There were lots of staff but no one seemed bothered to see if you were ok or male the evening anything special.Food however was lovely.This is such a shame and a let down, we have been here many times before and even got married her a few years ago. Sadly would think twice before returning,.For an evening out at this price good service and an enjoyable experience need to go with the great food.

Went for Valentines table d'hote 4 course dinner. Absolutely first rate well thought out offering. Small delicious portions with many identifiable flavours.. Exemplary Eastern European formal service. Treated like royalty. Unobtrusive but always there if needed. Fairly fully priced but well worth it. Looked back to a recent 1 star michelin offering in London which was rubbish in comparison. Well done everyone. Mrs Aldhelm delighted as well which was the main thing. Very extensive wine list if you want to push the boat out. Thank you everyone at the Harbar.

We had a fairly nice meal here, the food was of good quality although we were told the soup was white onion, and when it was delivered it clearly wasn't ( it was leek&potato). It was just a bit strange really, we asked for a table at 7.30, but told it wasn't possible until 8pm. We arrived at 7.30 anyway to have a drink in the bar, and the restaurant had only 5 tables seated, a total of 10 people maximum ! At least 75% of the tables were empty. The service wasn't that great , I would hate to see what would happen if they got busy ! Oh and the obligatory 12.5 % service charge was added on , ( I hate that ! )

My wife and I visited in January as our second visit to the restaurant. It was my birthday weekend and we were staying at a sister hotel and decided to visit this restaurant as generally there seems to be more choice on the menu. The service was impeccable from start to finish. I went for the Beef Wellington and my wife had the Risotto which were both cooked to perfection and tasted fantastic. I would definitely recommend and will certainly be visiting again.

We must have come on a good day! Service was very good and with a smile, we felt they had been very attentive. Good menu, nicely presented and good wine list. One thing though; if you put on a mango based desert which involves the use of fresh fruit please make sure it is usable. Finely chopped hard tasteless fruit does not do it for me. I know how variable mango can be so why not just be honest and say it's no good today? Otherwise we enjoyed the experience. Breakfast and service was very good and enhanced by the stunning views of the harbour. I guess the dining room must be due for a refurb soon but please don't hike prices too much to cover it ... !