One of the many reasons people flock to Harrogate in North Yorkshire is to sample the delights that are produced by the world famous “Betty’s Tea Rooms” in Parliament Street.
Everyday you will probably have to queue to get a seat, and you will probably have to queue just to buy something in the shop.
Just around the corner however on Montpellier Hill there is a delightful cafe called the Palm Court where you’re unlikely to face a queue. Their offerings are equal in quality and the service, in my opinion, is superior.
The cafe on the first floor of this old building is a fraction of the size of “Bettys”. Their main menu is complimented by a frequently changing choice of sandwiches, wraps and toasted treats, as well as a range of home made specials and sweets.
My wife and I chose a simple ham sandwich each. One on brown bread and one on white and a pot of tea for two with extra hot water to top up the pot.
The sandwiches were freshly made to order, so they took a little while to arrive, but the wait was worth it.
The side salad and relish that accompanied our order was absolutely delicious, the sandwiches substantial, and the tea was hot and strong. Just how we like it. The bill was £13.20. Somewhat less I suspect had we chosen to join the queue around the corner!
