The White Hart — Restaurant in East Hampshire

I'm absolutely gutted. We moved to Alton in February and have been working our way round the pubs in the surrounding villages as an alternative to the ones in the town centre. We were really looking forward to the White Hart but unfortunately had a not very good experience in their last Friday. They were very busy and the waitress was very apologetic about the delay brining our menus over etc. (she was very nice and professional) We ordered our food (cod and chips and a duck confit) and while we were waiting I witnessed two other tabled send their cod and chips back to the kitchen... I was very concerned but thought I'd be fair and wait to see how mine was. When our food came, my fish and chips was fortunately fine, however my partner's duck confit was an absolute joke. It looked and tasted like it had been boiled. We sent the food back via a passing waiter (he was very apologetic) and ordered a second portion of cod and chips. Shortly after, a lady (I'm assuming the landlady) came over and VERY patronisingly demanded to know what was the issue. When my partner told her that what he had been served was not duck confit (he would know, he's half French) she stated "Confit if the type of cut of meat". Incorrect. It isn't. It's the way the meat is cooked. The cod and chips had run out so eventually my partner was presented with a fairly bland cod loin dish as an alternative. I think what's happened is the landlady has a Chef in the kitchen who perhaps isn't up to scratch, and is telling her things about the food he puts out that simply aren't true. It's a shame, because the male and female waiters we dealt with over the evening were very nice. To top it off, when our bill came the duck confit was still on there despite being more expensive than the dish my partner was finally given. The waitress quickly changed it for us when asked, but it was slightly annoying. We left the restaurant as soon as we'd paid, being stared out of the door by the landlady. As I say, it's a huge shame. But until the kitchen has had some major changes we definitely won't...

In many days yonder past the local boozer was affectionately known as the ‘Wet Fart’ because both the beer and food would regularly produce the aforementioned outcome. Not now, the no1 rated establishment in Holybourne has fallen to an Afrikaans invasion, and thankfully they bring their meat expertise with them. Under new ownership I’m pleased to say we have witnessed a transformation at The White Hart.

What an absolutely marvellous Sunday lunch we had this Sunday past, leaving me ebullient for many a day. Ever careful of my waistline I skipped the starter, but my good friend always a great fan of a large meaty sausage had the Boerewors, which I’m told was superb. We both had the roast beef,which was incredible, cooked to perfection, with absolutely first class gravy, so important for this national favourite. Fantastic wine list at very very sensible prices, we had an old favourite the Buitenverwachting MPV. 70% Merlot, smooth good depth with a lasting finish. I’d say Ek het drop, hout en pruim gekry, met sterk note wat deur die houtvate gelaat word, but what do I know.

The Wet Fart we hope gone forever, hail these newbies gastronomically oh so clever. If you’re treating a loved one, with thought to thrust, there is nothing finer than their Meerlust. All was exquisite going in and going down, I can assure you there is no better deal in town. The White Hart I tell thee now is food perfection, giving my tastebuds...

Very unusual situation during covid .I stopped over due to work commitments, 2 nights , Lorne and Carey the managers were away and they are brilliant .In there absence the young team running the place were also brilliant . Every area of safety was covered off without fault,in the rooms and in the Bar and restaurant. The food was great, freshly made and well presented . I'm a real ale drinker and the beer was a treat after my 4 hour + drive . Like I said before the young staff were spot on , very respectful but also attentive and a good laugh . Cloe was just the perfect host . The place wasn't busy , Covid has put a stop to that , but hopefully you will all find this sleepy little treasure of a village ,Holybourne, and get to sample the White Hart for yourselves. My colleagues and I always choose this place first when working in the area...