Silver Palate

We love the silver palate, and have been regularly since we moved to the area. The food quality, iIMHO, remains great, but the service has become…weird. Generally, the waiting staff are great. However, 2x we’ve been with visitors, enthusiastic to share our love for the place, and had a bit of embarrassment. The first was a weekday lunch (2 adults and a toddler), and although not that busy, when I pointed out that the platter marked vegetarian was brought out with (fish based) taramsalata, the waitress’ I advised of this had a demeanour as though I was causing inconvenience. She did check (I presume she was more junior member of the waiting staff?) and came back to say that there is an error in the menu, and it shouldn’t be marked “V.” There was no refund or partial refund or complimentary drink etc offered. The second time, we took a group of 8 adults. Quickly and comfortably seated; orders taken quickly, despite it being busy. That was good; clearly we had an efficient waitress. But when we pointed out one order of the eight was still to be taken, we were made to feel like we were causing inconvenience. The main waitress dealing with our order was efficient but borderline brusque at times. When the orders came out, 2 were wrong; our lead waitress apologised, and the incorrect orders were replaced. This time, she DIDN’T act like we were inconveniencing her, and pointed out that she had put the order through as requested, and couldn’t account for the kitchen staff. There seems to have been an issue with the fresh (orange?) juice provisions, as 2 of them came with bugs in them; unfortunately one of the guests had hair in their plate. The dish was replaced, but not before we were again made to feel like we were being difficult/inconvenient. So our party ended the meal feeling a little uncomfortable as customers, although everyone enjoyed the actual food. But then, the lead waitress who HAD come across as annoyed at us took the cost of the drinks off our order; which obviously we really appreciated! If this review is a bit confusing, it reflects our somewhat confusing experience! Still recommend Silver Palate for the food, for sure, and we’ll definitely be back! But whilst they navigate changes (is it increased footfall, or staffing issues?) we may hold off introducing visitors, and just keep coming to enjoy it ourself, as we’ve generally had a really good experience when it’s just us. I hope this feedback is useful, and taken in the constructive spirit it’s intended.

A familiar restaurant in Harpenden with Mediterranean food, more greek than Italian or Spanish. Very nice welcome, good service and the prices didn't match with the online menu but they are reasonable They serve breakfast and lunch and everyone like the food they have. No booking required but they make you space without waiting time. Very recommended restaurant.