About This Pub
Oh, let me tell you about Al Bivio – it's this independent Italian restaurant tucked away in Hornbeam Park, Harrogate, that's been around since 2004 and really knows how to make you feel at home. From what I've gathered from the reviews and their own site, the food is a real highlight; people rave about dishes like thin, crunchy pizzas and fresh sea bass with proper chips, all made with a mix of local goodies and imports from Italy that give everything that authentic touch. The service stands out too – it's friendly and spot on, with stories of being seated straight away even on packed evenings, which is just brilliant for a spontaneous catch-up. It's flexible for whatever you're in the mood for, whether that's a quick lunch, a full meal, or just drinks at the bar with some Italian wines or beers. They've got vegetarian and vegan options sorted, and it's great for families or even business do's, with easy access for wheelchairs and prams. On the flip side, a few folks have mentioned the acoustics can get a bit overwhelming when it's lively, making it harder to chat over dinner, and it's a pity it's shut on Sundays if you're planning a weekend treat. Overall, with a solid 4.6 rating from heaps of happy visitors, it's a place I'd recommend for a memorable meal, but maybe book ahead and go on a quieter night if you fancy a good natter.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is absolutely spot on – fresh, locally sourced ingredients mixed with special imports from Italy make every meal a treat, whether it's a pizza or a sea bass dish.
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Service is warm and efficient; the staff are always friendly and quick to seat you, even when the place is buzzing.
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It's a versatile spot for all sorts of occasions, from a casual coffee and nibble to family dinners or business lunches, and they've got great options for vegetarians and vegans too.
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Plenty of drink choices at the bar, including Italian beers and wines, plus they offer takeaway and even wines to go, which is handy for a quick bite.
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Wheelchair and pram access is straightforward, and it's family-friendly, making it welcoming for everyone.
Cons
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The acoustics can be a bit tricky when it's busy, leading to some noise that might make conversations harder to hear.
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It's closed on Sundays, which is a shame if you're looking for a weekend outing.
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Even though it's generally easy to get a table, popping in without booking might mean waiting if things are lively.
Contact Information
The Lenz, Hornbeam Park Ave, Harrogate HG2 8RE
+441423870005
Italian
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 08:30 - 21:00 |
| Tuesday | 08:30 - 21:00 |
| Wednesday | 08:30 - 21:00 |
| Thursday | 08:30 - 21:00 |
| Friday | 08:30 - 21:00 |
| Saturday | 09:00 - 21:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Recent Reviews
Went for my daughter's birthday and really enjoyed it.
Walked in and were seated despite not having booked and the place being very busy. Food was excellent as was the service. Highly recommend.
RAVE REVIEW ALERT!!!
Let me start by saying that I walked into this restaurant completely blind to any knowledge about it or the area. The hotel I was staying in for work had their restaurant closed much to my disappointment. They mentioned the Italian next door and I didn't want to walk far, so I thought it will do.
I walked in and they seated me instantly, very friendly and welcoming. Whilst I was checking out the menu they brought over free Tapenada, olives and bread basket. Best Tapenada I have ever eaten. So I was off to a great start. Not realising the portions were huge I pretty much ate the lot. I ordered pappardelle alla Norcina. Which was pasta with sausage and wild mushrooms with a creamy tomato sauce. Not going to lie this was a dance party in my mouth. The portion size was huge. I had noticed they the offer half portions(note for next time). The food was so good I finished the lot and I am now in a food coma. If I wasn't in public I would have licked the plate. Now I live 1 hour and 15 minutes away and would make the drive to come back. Already rang the family and told them to make the drive to try this place.
Highly recommend, the pricing was a little higher than most Italian restaurants I have been in but what can I say its more than worth it.
Unfortunately 5 stars is the highest rating on here. But I would treble it. Will most definitely be back.
A lovely couple of Sea Bass fillets with proper chips. Exceptionally good friendly service. A really nice busy restaurant.
I had here one of the best pizza’s ever. If you love thin and crunchy base and something different than mozzarella, this is the one! Friendly staff, smooth service. Would have loved to give 5 stars but the bad acoustics bothered me a lot.
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