Harrington’s a satisfying downtown lunch spot

• By LISA TRAMONTANA
• Restaurant reviewer
• Published: May 15, 2009

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If you work downtown, you’ve probably dined at Harrington’s. If not, you should give it a try.

A casual atmosphere, good food and quick service combine to make Harrington’s a perfect lunchtime destination.  It’s known for tasty and affordable food, and the menu offers something to please everyone.

On the day we visited, the special of the day was red beans and rice with catfish and cornbread ($7.99). The beans were just the right consistency (neither gloopy, nor soupy) and they were mixed with slices of sausage to give them a spicy flavor. The cornbread was sweet and crumbly … delicious when dipped into the beans.

The presentation was a little confusing, as the bowl of beans was placed on top of a plate, and the fried catfish filet was sort of tucked in between the two, rather than served separately. After considering our options, we separated the dishes so the catfish could be placed on the plate in order to be cut. The dish is great, but the way it’s served is awkward at best.

Another diner chose the Capital City Club sandwich ($6.99). Slices of ham, turkey, bacon and cheese are placed on a flaky crescent roll lathered with a sweet honey mustard sauce. The sandwich is like most traditional clubs, but the warm, soft croissant makes the difference.

The bacon cheeseburger is pretty standard. It includes American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and mustard (or however the diner wants it dressed).

The fried shrimp plate ($7.99) is on the small side. About 10 small fried shrimp are served on a bed of French fries. On the day we visited, the batter seemed over-cooked, making the shrimp too crunchy and hard to taste.

The crab cakes ($7.99), however, were very good. The batter wasn’t too heavy and the well-seasoned flavor of the crabmeat comes through. The dish is served with two sides. (We chose garlic mashed potatoes and green beans, both very tasty.)