When it’s the brainchild of Andrew Pern, Whitby is ready for another fish restaurant says Elaine Lemm,
Andrew Pern is without doubt one of Yorkshire’s finest chefs and operators and his culinary impact on not only the county but also the UK now spans decades. He is the chef I have reviewed more than any other. So why, when Andrew could justifiably kick back and enjoy all that he has achieved does he start a new venture? I have no idea, and I for one hope that this isn’t one step too far.
Andrew returns to his roots in Whitby with the opening of The Star in the Harbour and an impressive 160+ seater restaurant in the building that once housed the Tourist Office. How easy it would have been to create a lobster pots-sea-shanties-et-al pastiche in the harbourside location, but no. Instead, there is a light nautical theme but look around carefully for all the exquisite details thanks to designer Rachel McClane. Drag your eyes, if you can, away from the stunning backdrop across the harbour and to the abbey and stop to admire the craft of the place. The giant lobster from Whitby sculptor Emma Stothard, local art from Bridget Wilkinson and Kate Smith and do not miss the tentacle door handles from James Godbold at Egton Bridge. The budget was high, and it shows.
Star in the Harbour Facts
The Star Inn the Harbour, Langborne Road, Whitby YO21 1YN Tel: 01947 821900. Open Monday to Friday, 11.30am-9pm; Saturday, 12-9.30pm; Sunday, 12-7pm (these times will change in the winter). Dinner for two with wines, water, appetisers and bread, £128.
Ratings: Welcome 5/5 FOOD 5/5 atmosphere 5/5 prices 4/5
Welcome 5/5 FOOD 5/5 atmosphere 5/5 prices 4/5
FOOD 5/5 atmosphere 5/5 prices 4/5
Atmosphere 5/5 prices 4/5
Prices 4/5