Wondering where to get a meal in this beautiful town? Whether you're after a spot of classic pub grub on the beachfront or something a little different, we've got just the guide for you. From seasonal dishes in homely environments to vegan plates paired with innovative cocktails, here are the best places to eat in Bournemouth.
Our guide wouldn't be complete without one of the best Bournemouth restaurants in the town centre, The Stable. Head here for refreshing pints of cider and a menu of signature pizza slices, with toppings ranging from chipotle chicken or chorizo to roasted aubergine and vegan burrata, followed by homemade Biscoff cheesecake for dessert.
A place with vintage charm and a rooftop terrace to boot, Cosy Club is all kinds of perfect for your next meal - perfectly balancing relaxed and stylish. You can enjoy a variety of dining options throughout the day, from hearty breakfasts and leisurely lunches to indulgent dinners. The menu includes comforting classics and seasonal specials, with vegan and gluten-free choices available.
For those visiting at the weekend, the popular bottomless brunch upgrade offers 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks for £25 per person, including fizz, cocktails or mocktails, making it a great way to elevate your morning plans.
Found on Old Christchurch Road and on Richmond Hill, Slug and Lettuce boasts quirky decor, modern lighting and a casual atmosphere. Along with bottomless brunches in birdcages and delish sharing platters, the joint has some Insta-worthy cocktails - we recommend the Gold Digger that comes with edible flowers. And if you're after cheap places to eat in Bournemouth, check out their £10 lunch deal which includes a sandwich and a drink.
One of the coolest restaurants on Bournemouth seafront is the multi award-winning seafood spot WestBeach, with two AA rosettes. From the freshest produce to crab Benedict at breakfast and DJs come the Friday or Saturday evening service, this destination is sure to leave you impressed.
Hands down one of the best Bournemouth restaurants with a view, Aruba is the Caribbean-themed spot that offers dinner, alongside cracking cocktails and a sun-soaked terrace. That's not all though, as this quirky venue hosts themed brunches and late-night cabaret soirées.
If you're after places to eat in Bournemouth with a view, Urban Garden is quite the stunner. Boasting an alfresco terrace with overlooking the treetops, as well as tropical-inspired interiors, this is a fantastic place to wolf down seasonal delights, from Cornish mussels to succulent steaks.
NEO is a top choice if you're looking for award-winning restaurants in Bournemouth, offering its guests an elevated approach to British cooking. Expect relaxed interiors, with comfortable booth seating and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as an elegant lounge bar downstairs.
Looking to dine alfresco? Head to the terrace for stunning views of the surrounding town and the seafront as you make your way through delicious grilled goods and cocktails.
Right in the heart of the town centre, ASK Italian is a top choice for laid-back drinks and dinner. The relaxed venue features leather booth seating and hanging lights, and you can nab cocktails for as little as £8.50 each here.
That's not all though, as they've got an extensive menu full of Italian dishes - think mushroom ragu pappardelle, fettucine bolognese, prawn piccante pizza and much more.
Serving everything from hearty Sunday roasts to wholesome brunch plates, there's certainly plenty to choose between at Brewhouse & Kitchen Southbourne - think homemade mac and cheese, beer can chicken or chipotle lentil burgers for mains. These guys even create five delicious beers at their on-site microbrewery, as well as having over 50 different craft beers on offer. If you're not in the area, then head to The Triangle location.
Found within the Hilton Bournemouth, Natty's Jerk Kitchen & Rum Bar is offering an authentic and community-led experience of Jamaican food from a team that have been going strong since 2017. Expect to munch through curry goat, jerk pork belly and jerk chicken burgers, all while getting a taste of Caribbean drinks and culture too.
This award-winning destination is situated right in the heart of the city, flaunting sensational cocktails and an array of international eats. The interiors are opulent and colourful, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for munching on everything from barbecue ribs to sushi platters and Thai fish cakes.
Situated inside the Hilton hotel in the town centre, Schpoons & Forx is a fabulous dining destination, thanks to its stylish interiors and scrumptious fare to match. Tuck into everything from beef fillet carpaccio to smoked haddock arancini and scrumptious charcuterie spreads on their British menu, all made from the finest seasonal ingredients.
Located in Southbourne, The Larder House is an elegant restaurant and bar that's perfect when you want to splash out a little. Ideal for date night, this intimate venue dishes out small plates such as poached dates and crispy potatoes, as well as sharing steak platters and oysters. Though their menu is European-inspired, everything about this place is infused with Dorset traditions - from the decor to the meals cooked up in their wood-fired oven.
If fine dining is on your mind, then add the Michelin-recommended Restaurant Roots to your list - this place is as close as it gets to Michelin star restaurants in Bournemouth. The venue is whipping up simple plates cooked in an innovative way across sumptuous tasting menus. From chalk stream trout and seared scallops to soft cheese crumpets with truffle, this place is dishing out fancy eats by the truckload.
Chaplin's & The Cellar Bar and the connected Modern Times Restaurant is a truly quirky spot touting a beautiful beer garden and whacky, colourful decor. Their menu changes frequently to bring out the best in seasonal ingredients, but you can expect dishes like parmesan and truffle chips, bacon cheeseburgers or lemon and thyme gnocchi.
Searching for fun places to eat in Bournemouth? How does an all-you-can-eat buffet for as little as £19.99 sound? Occupying a prime plot on St Peter's Road, COSMO has a range of international dishes up for grabs. You'll find everything from Indian to Japanese dishes, over to traditional carvery with all the trimmings.
Not only does this unique beachfront restaurant boast stunning views and hearty meals, but it's dog friendly too. Look out over the sea as you enjoy casual lunchtime bites like chicken club sandwiches, nachos and mozzarella sticks, or opt for a main meal like homemade pizzas, burgers or vegan lasagne.
One of the top restaurants in Bournemouth, The Libertine champions a homely atmosphere and rustic interiors. Enjoy perfectly executed plates and wood-fired pizzas alongside boutique spirits, classic cocktails and a wide selection of wines. Plus, they've even got their very own Libertine Gold ale on offer.
