Old Harkers Arms

Price guide: Mid-range

1 Russell Street, Chester, CH3 5AL

Price guide: Mid-range

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#10 of 19
expert-rated restaurants in Chester
Expert overall rating:4.3 out of 5
Food and drink:
4.6
4.6
Ambience:
4.5
4.5
Service:
4.2
4.2
Location:
4
4.0
Value for money:
3.9
3.9
Recommended for:
Couples, Singles, Stag / hen parties, People watching, Relaxation

Expert review of Old Harkers Arms

Last updated 17 September 2010

This is the top joint in Chester for some fancy pub grub.

It doesn’t look much from outside, but inside is one of the best pubs in Chester. The decor is homely, with pared back detailing like knocked about wooden tables and chairs and painted brickwork. There are old port boxes on the ceiling, bunches of frames on the walls and no music to drown out the ring of lively conversation. The drinks are expensive but the food is top notch. Get there early or late for dinner, otherwise you’ll be hovering for a table.

Food and drink: 

It feels so obvious to say the food here is proper British grub with a modern twist, as it’s exactly what you’d expect – but then what’s wrong with that? Pork and apple sausages with sage mash sit on the menu alongside beef and ale pie and good ol’ fish and chips. Smaller appetites will enjoy lighter bites and sandwiches.

Recommended dishes: 

I like my lamb to render a knife unnecessary, it should simply fall away from the bone with a fork. This shoulder of lamb simply melts in the mouth (£14.95).

Ambience: 

Lively atmosphere provided by loyal locals in-the-know and visitors with smiles delighted to have stumbled on this place.

Service: 

Informal but extremely friendly and helpful.

Location: 

On the canalside, though there are no tables outside. You’ll find the pub down some stairs off the uninspiring City Road.

Price advice: 

It’s not cheap, and you rarely find a deal. Main courses go for between £9 and £14, light bites around £6 and a pud is around a fiver.

More information on Old Harkers Arms:

Price guide:
Mid-range
Type:
Pub
Food:
British, Traditional
Address:
1 Russell Street, Chester, CH3 5AL
Telephone:
01244 344525
Website:
http://www.brunningandprice.co.uk/harkers/
Serves:
Lunch, Dinner
Opening times:
Mon-Sat 11.30am-11pm, Sun noon-10.30pm. Last orders 9.30pm Mon-Sun
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Reservations:
Not possible

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