Staying next to the Harbour Inn during our recent jaunt to Southwold, it wasn't surprising that we frequently ended up here for a quick pint - or to sneak one next door!
We only ate once; the set up of the Harbour is much more for the family crowd, with us even witnessing chairs on tables at 10pm one night - not for the night owls. The seating upstairs, around 5 tables, is the only 'adult only' bar in the place. This is generally on account of the location of the Harbour, inbetween Southwold and Walberswick, with no real access to anything other than the pub. Food is their mainstay, so fair enough.
It was busy when we arrived last Wednesday, but we managed - thanks to my mother's elbows and ability to spy people readying to leave - to grab a table within around 15 minutes of arriving. The menu here is fish heavy, naturally, but there are plenty of options for the non-fish loving.
I opted for the ribeye steak, served with a tomato, mushroom, onion rings and chips. Everything was delicious and I really enjoyed my steak; it was the perfect colour for me and oozed juices, meaning I barely needed to add anything (apart from a dash of ketchup - so sue me!) Around the table, we also had a starter/tapas portion of sea bass, which looked fresh and inviting, a juicy burger, with what was definitely a handmade patty on account of how easily it fell apart!, and vegetarian fish and chips. Now, this was battered halloumi - fried cheese seems to be a massive thing at the moment, and the Harbour didn't dissapoint. It was salty but, washed down with a pint of Broadside, my dad managed to power through!
All in all, family friendly, but don't be put off - you'll be able to get some great grub here. Lunchtimes are their busiest time, so be prepared to wait. read more