The best restaurants serving British food in Harpenden South St Albans East of England

Good real ale. Outside seating. Easy parking. Friendly service

The Engineer is my goto pub when I am in Harpenden. They are a very nice car park, and although the area is perfectly safe, it is nice to leave your car safe. I entered the bar to a friendly welcome and was shown to a nice table in minutes. A drink was ordered and delivered quickly, and I was given the list of the day’s specials, all of which sounded good but I had my heart set on more standard fare. I ordered the burger and chips and very shortly after a nicely decorated plate appeared. The burger was well cooked but succulent, the chips crispy and hot; add tomato sauce and it was heaven on a plate. At some point a member of staff appeared to check everything was ok and got a thumbs up. A few minutes after I had finished, the plate was removed and I was asked if I could be tempted with the dessert menu, everyone one knows there is always room for pudding. I ordered the brownie. When ordering the burger I had mentioned that I was intolerant to wheat, and staff automatically switched me to the gluten free brownie. To my delight it tasted wonderful (many don’t). Again the staff left me alone to enjoy my pudding. Shortly after I had scraped the plate clean, a member of staff asked if I wanted any else, I was happily full, so just the bill. The staff have mastered being there when you want them, otherwise leaving you alone to enjoy the meal. I am looking forward to my next visit to Harpenden so I have an excuse for lunch in the Engineer.

Had family Sunday lunch here today, was absolutely superb! Pre ordered a special fish dish, whole baked on the bone brill - finest fish dish we ever had! Sunday roast that our son said was the best chicken he has ever had, and a fantastic venison pie. Service was very attentive and friendly, and a great wine menu. 5* Plus!!!!