Sponsored Post
I remember back when the government roadmap was first announced, when those four key dates felt so far away, and the idea of only being able to eat at a restaurant, pub or cafe if it was outside seemed a little crazy. Since we entered the second stage of the roadmap on 12th April, I have eaten out several times, twice over my birthday weekend at the start of this month, and I have come to appreciate al fresco dining, despite the great British weather throwing a spanner in the works on more than one occasion (it poured with rain, and even started hailing, during bottomless brunch for my birthday).
I have put together a post on some of my favourite local restaurants with outdoor seating, to visit and enjoy this summer, even once the outside eating restrictions are lifted next week. Booking is still advisable, as eating out is so popular currently – you can make things easier by booking on apps such as Squaremeal.
The Cliff
My dad introduced me to The Cliff at Christmas, and it has become a firm favourite for both of us since he moved to the area from Essex recently. I love their Diablo pizza, and have fallen in love with both their Pornstar Martinis and non-alcoholic Mojitos, if I am driving (not on the menu, but they were happy to make them when I asked).
The Old Thatch
I went along to The Old Thatch recently on a review visit and was impressed with their menu, which is full of local produce, even down to the salt used. The covered seating area is very pretty, with twinkly fairy lights, and even blankets you can borrow to keep the chill at bay. I really enjoyed the food, and the cocktail I had was nice too!
The Real Greek
The Real Greek is a favourite of mine, and their terraced area is fantastic – it’s where I went on my birthday with family. They have big heaters, lots of undercover seating available, and a lovely view across Bournemouth Gardens. They are a good option too, if ups are looking for vegan restaurants, as they cater for those with dietary requirements – my sister is always able to find something she likes, despite having coeliacs disease, as well.
Turtle Bay
I am a big fan of Turtle Bay’s bottomless brunch offering, which includes limitless cocktails as well as prosecco and beer, if that’s your thing. You can also have a burger, instead of a breakfast dish, if you’d prefer. I went there the day before my birthday and really enjoyed it, despite the awful weather! I would suggest bringing an umbrella along with you if the weather is looking iffy though, as not all their outside tables were undercover and some people got soaked! Made for a memorable meal though…
The Stable
I headed to The Stable midweek on a whim, when I couldn’t get the takeaway option to work on the website, and I really enjoyed it. It was the first time our six month old puppy Bella had been out at a restaurant, and she was very excited! The pizza is always incredible at The Stable, and I was not disappointed. There wasn’t a lot of outside seating, but it overlooked the gardens and was a sun trap, even in the early evening, so I would recommend!
Eating outside over the past month has been fun, allowed me to catch up with friends and family safely, and is helping to recover the economy following the latest lockdown. I am enjoying the new trend for al fresco dining, and am looking forward to exploring more of the local restaurants over the coming weeks and months.
This is a sponsored post, however all words and images are my own.
