Restaurant Guide in Bournemouth & Poole
Our Favourite Places to Eat During Your Stay
One of the best things about staying on the Dorset coast is the fantastic choice of restaurants, cafés and waterfront dining.
Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood by the beach, a relaxed brunch, family-friendly dining or somewhere special for a celebration, Bournemouth and Poole have something for everyone.
If we had to choose just five restaurants to recommend to our guests, they would be:
- Rick Stein Sandbanks – outstanding seafood and harbour views
- Rockfish Poole – relaxed waterside dining
- Urban Reef – beachside breakfast, lunch or dinner
- WestBeach – ideal after a day on Bournemouth Beach
- The Crab at Bournemouth – perfect for a special evening
Rick Stein
Overlooking the beautiful waters of Poole Harbour, Rick Stein’s restaurant in Sandbanks is one of the area’s most popular dining destinations. Renowned for its fresh seafood and relaxed coastal atmosphere, the menu showcases everything from locally landed fish and shellfish to classic favourites inspired by Rick Stein’s travels. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an evening by the sea, it’s a wonderful place to experience exceptional food in a stunning waterfront setting. We recommend booking in advance, particularly during weekends and the summer season.
Rockfish
Situated on the vibrant Poole Quay waterfront, Rockfish is a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys fresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a relaxed setting. The menu changes with the daily catch, offering everything from traditional fish and chips to whole grilled fish and delicious shellfish, all prepared with simplicity to let the quality of the ingredients shine. With beautiful harbour views and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, family meal or relaxed dinner while watching the boats come and go. Its central quayside location also makes it the perfect place to explore Poole before or after your meal.
Urban Reef
Just steps from the award-winning beach at Boscombe, Urban Reef is one of our favourite places to enjoy relaxed coastal dining with uninterrupted sea views. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast after a morning walk along the promenade, a leisurely lunch in the sunshine or dinner as the sun sets over the bay, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere throughout the day. The menu features a delicious selection of fresh, seasonal dishes alongside great coffee, cocktails and homemade desserts, making it a wonderful place to unwind while taking in the stunning coastline. Its beachfront location and laid-back vibe make Urban Reef a firm favourite with both locals and visitors alike.
WestBeach
Perfectly positioned beside Bournemouth Pier, WestBeach offers relaxed beachfront dining with some of the best sea views in the area. Inspired by Mediterranean flavours, the menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, vibrant salads and sharing dishes, all made with quality seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a long lunch after a day on the beach or settling in for dinner as the sun begins to set, the welcoming atmosphere and stunning coastal setting make WestBeach a memorable place to dine. During the warmer months, the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine while enjoying food and drinks just moments from the shoreline.
The Crab at Bournemouth
A favourite with both locals and visitors, The Crab at Bournemouth has built an excellent reputation for serving beautifully prepared seafood in elegant surroundings. Showcasing the finest fresh fish and shellfish alongside a carefully curated wine list, the restaurant combines exceptional food with warm, attentive service. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable meal, The Crab offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience just a short stroll from Bournemouth’s beautiful coastline. It’s a wonderful choice for seafood lovers looking to enjoy one of the town’s standout restaurants.
