Our pick of restaurants with AA Rosettes
Dorset is famed for its breath-taking scenery, with miles of dramatic coastline and beautiful beaches. Not only are the views sublime – many of the restaurants are too.
From classic bistros and superb seafood to imaginative tasting menus, we’ve selected some of the best spots for fine dining on the Dorset Coast, all of which have been awarded at least one AA Rosette award for culinary excellence.
Hotel du Vin, Poole
A vine-covered Georgian mansion just off the historic quayside, this elegant and informal bistro thrives on French-inspired home-style cooking in a relaxed and down-to-earth setting. Expect bistro dining at its comforting, delicious best.
Rick Stein Sandbanks
Enjoy unparalleled views of Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island beyond in Rick Stein’s Sandbanks restaurant. Feast on classically prepared fish and seafood, sampling Stein’s iconic dishes such as whole Dover sole or grilled Cornish lobster.
The PIG on the Beach, Studland
A mellow yellow house on picturesque Studland Bay, The PIG on the Beach specialises in celebrating the seasons. Enjoy dishes inspired by uncomplicated British garden and sea-foraged food, all sourced from within a 25-mile radius.
The Crab at Bournemouth
Located on Bournemouth seafront, The Crab is known for serving fresh, locally-sourced food prepared by top chefs. Combining fine dining with a relaxed, pared-back space, this seaside gem is one of Dorset’s best seafood restaurants.
Hermitage Hotel, Bournemouth
Home to Hardy’s Restaurant, the Hermitage Hotel offers a thoughtful and interesting menu for diners to experience in a large, traditionally styled room opposite Bournemouth beach. Local suppliers and produce are used where possible, with seasonality and sustainability in mind.
The Green House, Bournemouth
The Green House specialises in ‘good food that doesn’t cost the earth’. You’ll find uncomplicated but imaginative food sourced from England’s garden counties – Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire – served in a modern and informal setting.
Cumberland Hotel, Bournemouth
Experience gourmet cuisine in an iconic Art Deco hotel on Bournemouth’s East Cliff. The à la carte menu in the elegant Ventana Grand Café serves up British classics, enhanced by a selection of seasonal signature dishes.
Roots, Bournemouth
This vibrant and modern restaurant seats 18 guests, creating a relaxed and intimate space. Specialising in tasting menu experiences, expect well-executed, uniquely presented dishes with buckets of flavour served by a husband-and-wife team.
Captain’s Club Hotel & Spa, Christchurch
Boasting beautiful views over the River Stour, dine on modern brasserie fare in stunning surroundings. Watch the sun set over Christchurch harbour from the terrace, or embrace the laid-back atmosphere of the Club Restaurant.
The Jetty, Christchurch
Perched on the water’s edge, The Jetty balances sophistication with fun to serve up impeccable food in a breath-taking setting. Widely acknowledged for its exceptional dining experience, the team is headed up by one of the South’s most renowned chefs, Alex Aitken.
