Ha Ha Bar & Grill review

It might have a slightly odd name but the Ha Ha Bar & Grill in Milton Keynes certainly delivers when it comes to fantastic food served in a great atmosphere. The large revolving entrance door entices you into the bar and you are not disappointed. It reminded me of a swanky Manhattan bar and grill; wooden floors, black furniture and mixture of standard tables and those all-American booths to slide yourself into.

There is a good range of food on the menu which means you can stop for a quick bite to eat at lunchtime or relax and string it out for a while having a three course meal during the evening. The menu is quite limited for strict vegetarians but there are plenty of fish and seafood dishes on offer. To get us in the mood we had a bowl of olives with bread and oil to nibble on while we chose our dishes.

After much discussion we went for the haddock gratin, which was wonderfully presented in a small ramekin with plenty of freshly toasted bread.  We also had a deliciously tasty smoked mackerel paté, also served with bread. For mains, when in Rome do as the Romans do, so in a bar and grill we went for the gourmet burger and a 8oz sirloin steak. The burger was huge and made from 100% British organic beef and served on a toasted focaccia bun, which did make it a little difficult to eat but once I figured that out the burger truly lived up to its name. The steak was cooked exactly as requested and we chose the wonderfully creamy dauphinoise potatoes to accompany it.

The choice of desserts was again very difficult as they all looked delicious on the menu.  A Baked Lemon Cheesecake with drizzle of summer fruit compote was scrumptious and the intensely flavoured Belgian Chocolate Mocha Torte was a perfect balance of chocolate and coffee, served with vanilla ice cream to lighten the richness.

Being a ‘bar’ and grill the drinks menu is pretty impressive. A wide selection of wines is available at reasonable prices, as well as beers, ciders and if you are feeling flush, champagne. For the more adventurous, why not try the exotically named Pomegranate Caipirinha or the Venetian Sunset cocktails.

This restaurant is a welcome addition to Milton Keynes’ new restaurant quarter at the:hub and offers great food at surprisingly good value for money.

Ratings:
Atmosphere:  8/10
Menu range: 7/10
Quality of food: 8/10
Service: 7/10
Value for money: 8/10

Summary: 
For good, honest, tasty food served by friendly, efficient staff in a lively atmosphere you can’t go far wrong with Ha Ha Bar & Grill. Would be a great venue to go to with a group of friends to enjoy a few drinks and then relax with a very enjoyable meal.

Facilities:

Children’s menu
A full children’s menu is available.

Disabled facilities
Restaurant is all on one level so gives easy access. Also has dedicated disabled toilets.

Parking
Daytime parking can be difficult and costly (pay and display). Evenings, after 7.00pm, there is plenty of parking available and it is free.

Other amenities
Small alfresco dining area available. Separate bar area allows for a drink before your meal.