A Comparison Image of Harvester Menu UK vs Pesto Menu UK (2026)

Harvester Menu UK vs Pesto Menu UK (2026)  Full Comparison of Menus, Prices & Restaurants

Welcome to the comparison guide of Harvester Menu UK vs Pesto Menu UK. In 2026, two popular dining names in the UK  Harvester and Pesto  continue to attract families and food lovers with their unique styles. Harvester is known for its British pub classics and unlimited salad bar, while Pesto brings the flavours of Italy and the Mediterranean to your table.

This comparison covers menus, prices, restaurant experiences, and overall value, helping you decide which suits your taste and budget.

Menu Overview

Harvester Menu UK  What to Expect

Harvester Restaurants UK serve hearty meals perfect for families and groups. Their menu includes:

The Harvester menu focuses on British comfort food at reasonable prices, with sides and sauces that keep regulars coming back.

Pesto Menu UK  What’s on Offer

Pesto Restaurants UK specialize in small Italian-style dishes called piattini (small plates), allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavours in one sitting.
Their menu includes:

  • Classic pastas and risottos
  • Fresh pizzas and seafood
  • Authentic antipasti and desserts like tiramisu

Pesto’s menu highlights Mediterranean ingredients, olive oil-rich dishes, and a more continental dining style than Harvester.

Menu With Prices

Harvester Menu With Prices (Starters, Mains, Desserts & Drinks)

Here is Harvester Menu Average 2026 pricing (approximate and varies by branch):

CategoryPopular ItemsPrice Range
StartersNachos, Garlic Bread, Chicken Wings£5.99 – £7.99
MainsBBQ Ribs, Rotisserie Chicken, Burgers£11.49 – £16.99
DessertsBramley Apple Pie, Sundaes£5.49 – £6.99
DrinksSoft Drinks, Beers, Wines£2.99 – £6.50

Tip: Harvester often runs weekday meal deals and kids eat free offers.

Pesto Menu With Prices  Latest UK Pricing

Approximate 2026 prices at Pesto Menu UK (including London locations):

CategorySample DishesPrice Range
Piattini (Small Plates)Polpette, Arancini, Calamari£4.95 – £6.95 each
PastasSpaghetti Pomodoro, Lasagne£9.95 – £13.95
PizzasMargherita, Prosciutto e Funghi£10.50 – £14.50
DessertsGelato, Tiramisu£5.50 – £7.50

Pesto’s pricing is slightly higher per dish, but diners enjoy the variety and authentic Italian quality.

Breakfast Options

Harvester Breakfast Menu UK  Full Breakdown

Harvester serves one of the UK’s most loved all-you-can-eat breakfasts. Popular items include:

  • Unlimited cooked breakfast menu buffet
  • Pancakes, bacon, sausages, and toast
  • Fresh fruit and cereals
    Average cost: £9.49 for adults, £4.99 for kids (prices vary slightly by branch).

Does Pesto Offer Breakfast?

No, Pesto Restaurants UK usually open for lunch and dinner only.
Their focus is on Italian-style main meals rather than breakfast options.

Cuisine Comparison

Harvester UK Cuisine  What Type of Food Do They Serve?

Harvester offers traditional British and pub-style food. Their focus is on grilled meats, comfort dishes, and balanced plates. You will find flame-grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, burgers, and classic roasts.
It’s perfect for those who love home-style meals with generous portions.

Pesto Restaurant UK  Italian & Mediterranean Focus

Pesto brings Italy to the UK dining table. Expect flavours from Tuscany, Sicily, and the Amalfi coast, featuring olive oil, fresh herbs, seafood, and pasta. It’s ideal for diners who enjoy lighter, flavour-rich meals.

Restaurant Locations & Accessibility

Harvester Branches Across the UK

Harvester operates over 220+ restaurants across England, Scotland, and Wales. They are often found near retail parks or travel routes. Popular branches include Harvester Cardiff Bay, Harvester Hillington Glasgow, and Harvester Colton Mill Leeds.

Pesto Restaurant Locations  Where to Find Them in UK & London

Pesto has fewer branches, but most are known for stylish interiors and warm hospitality. You will find Pesto restaurants in areas like Manchester, Birmingham, and London, often in partnership with inns or pubs.
Their Pesto at The Axe & Compass and Pesto at The Davenport Arms are especially popular.

Ownership & Brand Facts

Who Is the Owner of Pesto Restaurants?

Pesto Restaurants were founded in the mid-2000s by Sara Edwards and Neil Gatt. The brand focuses on offering authentic Italian cuisine with UK-friendly pricing. Their goal is to blend traditional recipes with a modern British dining experience.

Who Owns Harvester Restaurants UK?

Harvester is owned by Mitchells & Butlers, one of the UK’s largest pub and restaurant groups. The same company also manages brands like Toby Carvery and All Bar One.

Brand & Food Quality Comparison

Harvester vs Pesto  Food Quality & Ingredients

  • Harvester: Focuses on UK-sourced meats, freshly prepared salads, and family-style comfort meals.
  • Pesto: Emphasises imported Italian ingredients like olive oil, cheese, and pasta.

Both brands value freshness  Harvester leans toward hearty meals, while Pesto favours flavour balance and presentation.

Health & Nutrition  Which Menu Is Better?

For calorie-conscious diners:

  • Harvester offers calorie labels and lighter salad options.
  • Pesto tends to have lower-fat ingredients (olive oil, tomato-based sauces).

If you prefer protein-rich meals, Harvester wins. If you want Mediterranean balance, Pesto is better.

Dining Experience

Harvester Restaurant Experience Family Friendly or Casual Dining?

Harvester is known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere. Families love the kids’ menu and salad bar, while adults enjoy the comfort of familiar British dishes. It’s informal, budget-friendly, and ideal for group dining.

Pesto Restaurant UK Experience  Ambience & Hospitality

Pesto restaurants offer a cosier and slightly more refined setting. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, perfect for couples or small gatherings. Expect warm lighting, rustic interiors, and Italian background music.

Menu Diversity & Special Offers

Variety of Menu Choices at Harvester

Harvester offers something for everyone:

  • Vegan and vegetarian choices
  • Seasonal limited-time offers
  • Combos and meal deals

They often update their menu with new grills and sauces for variety.

Menu Variety at Pesto UK  Classic & Seasonal Dishes

Pesto’s menu changes seasonally, with dishes like:

  • Pasta al Pesto Genovese, Bruschetta al Pomodoro, and Pollo al Marsala
    They maintain a steady rotation of Italian classics mixed with new creations each year.

Harvester Menu UK vs Pesto Menu UK Pros & Cons

Pros & Cons of Harvester Menu UK

Pros:

  • Affordable prices
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Free salad bar with mains

Cons:

  • Food can be heavy for light eaters
  • Limited branches in smaller towns

Pros & Cons of Pesto Menu UK

Pros:

  • Authentic Italian taste
  • Ideal for sharing small dishes
  • Quality ingredients and ambience

Cons:

  • Slightly pricier
  • Fewer restaurant locations
  • No Breakfast menu

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The city of Genoa (Genova) in Italy is known as the birthplace of pesto sauce, traditionally made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.

Yes. Harvester offers a full kids’ menu with smaller portions of main dishes, plus a mini salad bar option.

Yes, reservations can be made online via the official Pesto Restaurants UK website or by calling your nearest branch.

The majority were reported to be for children under 12 years of age. Over half of restaurants did not offer different sized children’s meals for different age groups.

Yes, Harvester is a casual dining restaurant chain in the United Kingdom.

Conclusion

If you love British classics, family dining, and value for money, go with Harvester. If you prefer Italian flavours, relaxed ambience, and sharing plates, Pesto is the better pick. Both Harvester Menu UK and Pesto Menu UK offer good food, but they suit different tastes and dining styles.

Harvester is a better choice for families and groups who enjoy British-style meals, grilled dishes, and a wide range of options, including an unlimited salad bar. Pesto is more suitable for people who prefer Italian food, small sharing plates, and a relaxed dining experience. In 2026, both menus continue to serve quality food with clear choices for different customers.

To learn more about menu updates, you can read our blogs or explore seasonal options like the Christmas Menu. If you need help, please Contact Us anytime, and always check the Terms and Conditions before ordering. Both restaurants deliver excellent quality for their price; it just depends on what kind of dining experience you want.

Tips for Next Steps

Before your next meal out:

Last Updated Information

This page was last updated to keep details accurate for visitors.

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