Reviews for HAAR - May/June 2023
WHERE CULINARY EXCELLENCE TAKES CENTER STAGE.
We are thrilled to present a compilation of the best reviews from our valued guests, capturing the essence of what makes HAAR a truly remarkable restaurant. TripAdvisor, we've gathered a selection of reviews that highlight the unique aspects that have earned HAAR its esteemed reputation. Each testimonial serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring that every visit to HAAR is an experience to be cherished.
Absolutely amazing food, such a talented chef and team. We had the taster menu and could not fault it in any way. Simply the best food we've eaten in a long time. The service was very attentive and friendly. We will definitely return and can't wait to enjoy the whole experience again.”
Amazing place to dine!
We were there for my husband’s birthday on the 13th and everything was perfect.
The oysters were beautiful as were all of the dishes.
We did the wine pairing, which definitely enhanced our tasting experience.
Staff were fantastic, especially our chef and wine pairing expert.
Special shout out to our Canadian server ( apologies for not remembering your name! ) Brilliant service and great knowledge of food.
We will return some time soon.”
“Haar Delivers a Decadent Five-Course Tasting Menu”
In the pursuit of culinary excellence, we find ourselves at Haar, an acclaimed restaurant known for its innovative and elegant dining experience. The whispers of its exquisite cuisine have reached our ears through word-of-mouth recommendations from esteemed gastronomes, and the level of anticipation is palpable. Haar has emerged as a prominent contender, known for its innovative gastronomy and commitment to creating a dining experience that transcends mere sustenance. With high expectations shaped by past experiences of gastronomic bliss, we eagerly embark on a journey through a five-course tasting menu that promises to enchant our taste buds and satiate our refined palates.
From the moment we stepped foot into Haar, we were greeted by a team of highly attentive and knowledgeable staff, whose warm hospitality set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The service was impeccable, with each dish presented with precision and accompanied by detailed descriptions from our server. Their passion for gastronomy was evident in their recommendations and willingness to cater to individual preferences. While the staff at Haar displayed a commendable level of attentiveness throughout our dining experience, there was an underlying weariness that subtly dimmed the ambiance. Their professionalism shone through, ensuring that our every need was met with precision and efficiency. However, a warm smile, although occasionally present, seemed to be a scarce commodity among the fatigued faces. It is our hope that the management recognises the importance of infusing their service with genuine warmth and enthusiasm to truly elevate the overall dining experience.
Upon entering Haar, one is enveloped in an atmosphere that radiates sophistication and refined elegance, tastefully blending modern aesthetics with an intimate ambiance. Soft lighting and elegantly dressed tables created a serene setting, allowing us to focus on the culinary journey ahead. The contemporary decor, with its muted tones and subtle lighting, created an intimate and relaxed environment. The sleek, minimalist design was tastefully adorned with artistic accents that seamlessly blended with the overall aesthetics. The tasteful combination of contemporary decor and soft, ambient lighting creates an intimate and inviting setting. The tables, thoughtfully spaced, provide privacy while allowing for a sense of connection with fellow diners. Their carefully curated playlist further enhanced the enchanting ambiance, captivating the senses and setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. It was an atmosphere that fostered both conviviality and refinement.
The culinary voyage at Haar commenced with the first course — an exquisite beef tartare enveloped in a delicate, crispy casing and adorned with a sprinkle of indulgent caviar. The combination of textures, from the velvety tartare to the satisfying crunch, delighted our palates. Each bite offered a symphony of flavours, with the umami notes of the beef harmonizing beau;fully with the briny richness of the caviar. It was a tantalising start to our gastronomic adventure.
The second course brought forth a vibrant Loch Etive trout ceviche, delicately balanced with the tangy sweetness of passionfruit and the delicate touch of rice noodles. The fresh, succulent fish melted on our tongues, while the passionfruit added a refreshing zing that elevated the dish to new heights. The addition of rice noodles added a subtle textural element, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish. The marriage of flavours and textures was a testament to the chef's culinary prowess, leaving us yearning for more.
Next, the North Sea cod graced our plates, accompanied by Falkland farm tomato, coriander, and salsa verde. The dish, while well-executed, seemed to miss an opportunity to surprise and captivate our taste buds, leaving us longing for a bolder culinary exploration. While the cod was expertly cooked and flaky, the flavours seemed somewhat predictable, lacking the inventive flair we had come to expect. The plating and texture also fell within the realm of conventionality, leaving us yearning for a bolder exploration of taste and presentation.
The fourth course took us on a journey through the robust flavours of Borders lamb loin and tamarind glazed pork belly. Paired with Jerusalem artichoke, Israeli couscous, and roast butternut, this dish showcased a masterful fusion of textures and tastes. The lamb stole the show, cooked to perfection with a tender, succulent texture that showcased the culinary prowess of the chef. However, the artichokes, though skilfully prepared, carried a slight bitterness that slightly detracted from the overall harmony of the dish. However, the succulent lamb and crispy pork belly, combined with the earthy sweetness of the artichoke and butternut, resulted in a harmonious medley of flavours that danced on our palates, leaving a lasting impression.
The grand finale arrived in the form of Nana's Banoffee, a symphony of sweetness and indulgence. The layers of moist cake, velvety toffee, and ripe bananas captivated our senses with their richness. While it was undeniably delightful, we found it to be slightly sweeter than our personal preference. The sweetness of the cake teetered on the edge of overpowering, leaving a desire for a more delicate balance. Nevertheless, the skilfully crafted dessert provided a fitting end to our culinary odyssey.
Haar's commitment to culinary craftsmanship is undeniable, with each course offering glimpses of brilliance. The atmosphere, infused with sophistication and charm, contributed to the allure of the evening. However, there were moments when the food fell short of the innovative expectations we had hoped. Despite these minor setbacks, Haar's dedication to quality local Scottish ingredients and culinary technique should be applauded. It remains a destination worthy of exploration for those seeking an elegant culinary experience.”
As you conclude this journey through the remarkable reviews of HAAR, we hope you've gained a glimpse into the extraordinary dining experiences that await you at our restaurant. From the words of our satisfied guests, it is evident that HAAR is more than just a place to dine.
We invite you to join us at HAAR and experience the magic firsthand. Let our dedicated team guide you through our diverse menu. Whether it's a special occasion, an intimate gathering, or simply a desire to indulge in tasty cuisine, we are here to make every moment unforgettable.
Really nice restaurant, amazing fish, great service For part of the starter courses in the tasting menu, you sit up by the chef and it was a really nice experience, with really fresh food.”
Haar is a great “fine dining” restaurant in St Andrews. It’s a fun experience—you start downstairs with drink, then sit at a bar where a chef prepares a few little bites for you to partake of. They were pretty fancy looking, innovative, and very tasty. Next, you go upstairs to your table and start in on dinner. The food here is very good, and well thought out. The chef is talented. Service is excellent.”
Wow. Stayed for two nights last weekend. Brilliant service and the food was truly amazing. Each course was exquisite - imaginative yet simply perfect.”
“The Haar (sea fog) harmonized with our bodies and lifted our spirits.
We had thought that we would just get a good dinner, but what we received was a magnificent performance of coordinated and varied dishes in the prix fixe menu, mostly related to the sea, that filled us with fine foods and memories.”
As you conclude this journey through the remarkable reviews of HAAR, we hope you've gained a glimpse into the extraordinary dining experiences that await you at our restaurant. From the words of our satisfied guests, it is evident that HAAR is more than just a place to dine.
We invite you to join us at HAAR and experience the magic firsthand. Let our dedicated team guide you through our diverse menu. Whether it's a special occasion, an intimate gathering, or simply a desire to indulge in tasty cuisine, we are here to make every moment unforgettable.
Thank you for embarking on this journey with us. We look forward to welcoming you to HAAR.