H’Artisan is a cute and stylish independent cafe in the heart of Wargrave. This charming village sits on the river just outside of Henley-on-Thames and has oodles of charm and sophistication. It just lacks the crowds that typically make Henley a bit less fun. We used to live in this village when we first moved in together, but thankfully H’Artisan Wargrave didn’t exist. The coffee is excellent and the food is truly dangerous.
Here is a bit about what to expect when you have brunch in what must be one of Henley’s best kept secrets.
H’Artisan Wargrave | Eating Local
H’Artisan Wargrave Location
Wargrave is a short drive from either Reading or Henley-on-Thames. From Henley, cross the iconic bridge and turn right at the first available road. This is the A321 and it is a direct route to the village. From Reading. you actually have a few options. Whichever direction you go, head towards Twyford. You will likely head down the A4, which will take you to the Twyford roundabout. Again, turn onto the A321 and Wargrave is less than a 2 minute drive away.
The village itself is a peculiar place; it initially just seems like a high street. H’Artisan is very visible along the high street, but there is no parking. We always park in the small car park just behind. Simply head left (when you come in from Henley; up the small hill) when you reach the crossroads at the traffic lights. The car park is then about 50m up on the left.
The Setting
The style of H’artisan Wargrave is without doubt one of the best things about it. The interior feels very suave and elegant, whilst also cosy and inviting. A tough combination that is masterfully pulled off. At the heart of it all though is a clear sense of friendliness and invitation. I instantly feel right at home whenever I visit and always feel comfortable.
H’Artisan’s decor is certainly modern, but with a callback to the traditional countryside setting. On the wall is a picture of Wargrave high street from the 1890s, setting a clear contrast between the rustic old reality and the modern elegance. The furniture also compliments this fusion of times. The pieces are clearly traditional, but are drenched in modern greens and complimenting colours.
Personally, I think that you would be hard-pushed to find a similar place outside of London. It just feels like the cool place to be and we clearly aren’t the only ones who think it. It is always packed.
The Food
H’Artisan specialises in breakfasts and lunches, serving a range of different dishes and pastries. Of course, they also do coffees too, which taste and look incredible. I particularly liked their coffee glasses too!
I was seriously spoilt for choice when it came to breakfast. There is a great selection, with clear high-quality, local ingredients used. I opted for their epic pancakes and my husband chose the breakfast bonanza bap. With coffees, this came to £30.00, which I thought was good value considering the location and quality.
My pancakes certainly lived up to their name. They were light and fluffy and were accompanied by at least 5 different fruits. The presentation was immaculate and they tasted divine. I loved the contrast between the slightly sour yoghurt and the sweet fruit, all on a super light and fluffy bed. The bap also looked insane; it was massive. It was jam-packed with breakfast items and you could even add additional things in too, such as halloumi. To make it better, there was also a think layer of cheese, with a strong cheese-pull too.
Overall, the food was without a doubt a 10/10 and has to be one of the best brunches around Henley-on-Thames.
Final Thoughts | H’Artisan Wargrave
If you are looking for a top brunch, look no further than H’Artisan Wargrave. I just cannot get over how much I like this place and think it deserves a massive shout out. If you are in the Henley area, you simply must visit this hidden gem.
