If you find yourself in the West End of London, stroll on over to The Harcourt in Marylebone and let your taste buds be transported to Scandinavia!
Located in between the Ulrika Eleonora Church and the Swedish embassy, this spot used to be a popular watering hole for the local Nordic community. In fact, it was so popular that it used to be known unofficially as the Swedish Pub! Eventually, it was bought by a Swedish team and turned into an upscale Scandi+fusion restaurant… with some of the original pub still intact.
The exterior showcases the building’s historical Regency elements, such as wooden panelling and leaded windows, but elegant planters and a cozy patio zhuzh it up. The interior is eclectic and beautiful, with every room decorated differently based on a theme.
It was a gorgeous day, so I sat outside on the patio. I was offered water with a wedge of lemon and half a loaf of absolutely delicious grainy Swedish rye bread. I ate all the bread and I wish I could have brought a loaf home with me. It was that good! I also loved the howling wolf plate in came on.
For my actual meal, I ordered two starters and a main course, all seafood. The desserts looked delicious, but I already had cupcake plans later in the evening.
My first starter was fine de claire oysters from Brittany, France. These famous molluscs come from the largest oyster-producing region in the world. They are finished in shallow salt ponds known as claires for at least a month, which allows them to fatten and take on a sweeter, fruitier flavour from the water and phytoplankton in the ponds. They were served with classic mignonette and lemon. I sipped on a glass of bubbly as I indulged on these little delicacies.
Next up, I veered away from the traditional and tried a fusion dish. I had a fantastic Atlantic sea bream poke with spring onion, soy, ginger, chili, sesame seeds, coriander, and cress. It was refreshing, light, and bursting with flavour.
So far, I loved everything that I had tried. But, it was the main course that really blew me away. Line caught “skrei” (Norwegian) cod with cuttlefish, mussels, potato, samphire, and cucumber was absolutely decadent. The sauce was creamy but still somehow light. The portion of fish and garnishes were quite generous. The cod in particular was cooked perfectly. I didn’t want this plate to end!
Overall, I highly recommend visiting The Harcourt. The food is wonderful, the service is attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming. It’s a great spot just outside of the main tourist drag where you can unwind and try something new. I’ve already added it to my favourite restaurants in London!