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Looking for somewhere new for date night, that long-overdue catch-up with the girls or an end to a great day out with the family? With these eateries throughout Dorset, you can be sure of delicious food and a great time for all; we'll leave the company up to you.
The Acorn Inn
In the heart of the beautiful Dorset countryside, the Acorn Inn is a 16th century, award-winning gastropub, with 10 individually decorated bedrooms, a traditional bar, beer garden and restaurant, serving the best local produce from the land and sea.
Come to the Acorn and enjoy lunch or dinner in our bar, restaurant, or outside terrace. The tasty food and drinks from our new autumnal menu includes our Dorset cheese souffle with mushroom veloute free-range and grass-fed Dorset duck breast, potato dauphine and local seasonal vegetables - and why not finish with our signature apple mousse pudding?
28 Fore Street, Evershot, Dorchester, DT2 0JW
01935 83228
Al Molo
Award winning Italian & fish Restaurant, Al Molo moved to Dorchester in July 2022 and offer traditional Italian dishes twisted to modern technologies of cooking and they bring fresh, locally caught fish to the forefront of the menu.
Situated in one of Dorchester’s oldest buildings, Judge Jeffreys on High West Street. Within this 17th century building, the restaurant features two Jacobean rooms, Tudor fireplaces and is one of the few surviving timber-framed buildings in Dorchester.
Using fresh, locally caught fish and produce, coupled with the finest Italian ingredients, the restaurant prides itself on quality food in a venue which provides an amazing historical setting.
Al Molo Dorchester, 6 High West Street, DT1 1UJ
Book your table call 01305 602330 or email info@almolodorchester.co.uk
The Oyster & Fish House
Buying direct from the fishermen can mean only one thing - the freshest fish is always guaranteed at The Oyster & Fish House. Using the best of local seasonal ingredients, Mark Hix is known for championing Southwest producers. Book for lunch or dinner, or pop in for oysters on the covered terrace and enjoy stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.
Grab a stool on 'The Lookout' and take in the sunset with sundowners, overlooking The Cobb Harbour. The menu changes daily depending on the fishermen's catch, and there's always a meat option available. Large parties and exclusive hires available. Don't miss the regular guest chef events, bookable through their website.
Cobb Road, Lyme Regis, DT7 3JP
01297 446910
reservations@theoysterandfishhouse.co.uk
www.theoysterandfishhouse.co.uk
The Bear of Burton
The Bear of Burton has quickly built up a reputation as a foodie destination in Dorset. Its menu combines classics with some imaginative dishes, always made from fresh seasonal ingredients and wherever possible locally sourced.
Venture outside onto the large south-facing terrace for al fresco dining in the sunshine. Nestled in rural countryside surroundings, the suntrap terrace is the perfect place to settle in for the afternoon. Head chef David Basher has a passion for all things local and curates menus reflecting the seasons. Sunday lunch is always popular with duck fat roasties, feather-light Yorkshires and truffled cauliflower cheese.
15-17 Salisbury Road, Burton, Christchurch, BH23 7JG
01202 477189
Hub Box Dorchester
Serving up flippin' good burgers, Hub Box are the good folk from the coast, bringing a taste of Cornwall to Brewery Square, Dorchester. Think gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries and of course collaborations with local and Cornish breweries.
Prime cut or plant-based, Hub Box is the perfect place for you to meet and eat with friends and family. Cruise by any time of the day to chow down on breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night drinks.
Get that table locked in, taste the goods and sink a few! The hand-crafted cocktails are highly recommended - available as boozy or non-alcoholic.
It's dog-friendly too!
Unit 1 Eldridge Street, Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1HX
01305 602608
hubbox.co.uk/restaurants/dorchester-hub-box
Knoll House Hotel
At Knoll House we believe in providing a great dining experience, and while it's a given that the food must be delicious, combining that with unparalleled sea views across Studland Bay really seals the deal.
Our head chef, Charles Hewitson, offers a traditional British-French cuisine using only the freshest of flavours from local, sustainable suppliers.
As well as serving lunch, dinner and afternoon tea, the team can also cater for private dining and special occasion events.
With over 37 years in the industry, Charles Hewitson is determined to put Knoll House well and truly on the Dorset foodie lovers' map.
Ferry Road, Studland BH19 3AH
01929 450450
Plumber Manor Country House Hotel & Restaurant
The archetypal Dorset country hotel, Plumber Manor is owned by the same family that built it in the 1600s. It offers the ambience of a much-loved home, where guests are welcomed warmly and treated to exceptionally fine food and an enviable wine list. The restaurant is renowned for head chef Louis' attention to sourcing the finest local ingredients and his perfect pairing of flavours.
It has been recently described as: 'a unique and magical experience in a home that has been cherished over generations. Our hosts went beyond great service providing true hospitality, with delicious food and facilities of timeless charm.'
Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 2AF
01258 472507
www.instagram.com/plumbermanorhotel
The Makers Yard Kitchen, Sculpture by the Lakes
Enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced on-site at this idyllic location; Dorset's world-class sculpture park and art venue. In a relaxed setting, kitchen gardeners and revered chefs create flavoursome menus, celebrating the best of British produce. With an array of delicious homemade cakes, hot beverages, exquisite wines, beers and ciders, the all-day mouth-watering menus offer breakfast, lunch, afternoon and cream tea with homemade scones and jam.
Each plate, including vegan options, is accompanied by specially sourced wine recommendations. With a free-to-enter gallery, pantry, and gift shop, this haven can be enjoyed whatever the weather.
Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, DT2 8QU
07899 802483
www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk/the-makers-yard/#kitchen
Email: kitchen@sculpturebythelakes.co.uk
The Fiddleford
The Fiddleford Inn is a charming food pub with ample room for couples, families and larger groups. We offer a wide selection of beers, ciders, largers and ales, but also serve delicious pub food (from 12:00 pm to 8:30 pm, Monday to Saturday and from 12:00 pm from 6:30 pm on Sundays). Please visit or call to see our specials food board, and book food in advance if possible.
The Fiddleford Inn is a great place to get away for the weekend. All of our double rooms and family rooms have en suites, are modern, bright and clean. In the morning, landlords Barrie & Ilze will be there to cook you a proper breakfast to your exact liking!
01258 472886
The Greyhound Inn
Forget gastropubs, The Greyhound Inn does proper fresh food - with daily specials, hearty breakfasts, a good wine list and locally produced ales. The only thing frozen at the Greyhound is the ice cream.
Enjoy lunch in the beautiful garden, under the luscious grape vines or dine in the charming dining room. If you fancy a culinary weekend away, there are six en-suite rooms available. Muddy boots and paws are both welcome.
26 High Street, Sydling St Nicholas, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9PD
01300 341303
www.instagram.com/greyhound_inn_sydling
www.facebook.com/DorsetGreyhound
South Beach at THE NICI
From a mouth-watering new menu to stunning views, welcome to South Beach at THE NICI. Open for relaxed all-day drinking and dining, South Beach celebrates ingredients from near and far, paying homage to its coastal location and exploring flavours from around the world. From the most exquisite soy braised pork belly bao buns to fresh lobster, Portobello mushroom steaks, the NICI burger and more.
This is the place to be, whatever the time of year, whatever the weather, whatever your occasion and whoever your chosen company.
THE NICI, West Hill Road, Bournemouth BH2 5EJ
01202 018555
Instagram: @thenicibournemouth
Facebook: thenicibournemouth
The Saxon Inn
You will find The Saxon Inn hidden in the village of Child Okeford, the home of Hambledon Hill. We are a traditional English inn, surrounded by the beautiful Dorset countryside.
Our menu offers a choice of local and seasonal produce, and our bar has local cask ales, gins, ciders and wine.
We invite you to join us with your family and friends for a lazy lunch, delicious supper, or maybe a Sunday roast - you will always receive a friendly welcome. We also have four letting rooms, perfect for that west country getaway.
Gold Hill, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8HD
01258 860310
The Station Kitchen
Fancy eating in one of Dorset's most iconic restaurants - a reclaimed first world war railway carriage at the seaside. Headed up by 2AA rosette executive chef and owner, Claire Moore and her team, it serves a seasonal menu, with Lyme Bay lobster, scallops and mussels all prepared with love, skill and passion.
This kitchen is full of fun, flair and big ideas. Traditional Sunday lunch boasts the most incredible grass-fed, dry-aged Dartmoor beef, free-range pork, corn-fed chicken, and with killer cocktails, this place is the place to be.
Station Road, West Bay, Bridport, Dorset DT6 4 EW
01308 422845
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