Press Visit
On Tuesday night, I was invited along to Brasserie Blanc in Bournemouth, with a friend, for dinner. The restaurant is located in the Marriott Hotel, with beautiful views across to Old Harry Rocks. The weather wasn’t brilliant, so unfortunately we didn’t get the chance to eat al fresco, but the area our table was in was still lovely, with sea views and a welcoming atmosphere.
I haven’t really tried French food before, so was a little apprehensive and unsure of what to expect, but the French dishes are joined by inspiration Raymond Blanc has taken from North Africa, Asia and America, and there really is something for everyone, with less adventurous dishes for people like me who are a little nervous of trying a different cuisine.
Our waitress was so helpful and attentive, offering to pour me a tasting glass of the wine as I wasn’t sure which one to go for, and offering suggestions as to which cheese starter we would enjoy best. We ordered our food and drink and sat back to take in the restaurant decor and catch up whilst waiting for our order.
To start, we shared the Cheese Souffle, which was gorgeous. It isn’t something I have ever tried before, or would have gone for myself, but it was so light and tasty, the perfect starter to get my mouth watering for the main course.
I had the burger, which I opted to have minus the mayonnaise but with cheese, bacon and chipotle sauce… It was delicious (although a bit messy to eat – don’t order if you are wearing white). It comes fairly bloody, but the waitress asked if I wanted to order it well done and I am glad I did, I don’t like pink meat, so it was appreciated that she checked. My friend had the Smoked Pork Belly with Apple & Crackling, which looked really good too.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the Golden Chocolate Feuilletine, which was hands down the best dessert I have had in ages – I could have happily eaten another slice if I had the room! My friend had the Sticky Toffee Pudding – can’t go wrong with that.
We both really enjoyed our meals, which were served with just the right amount of time in between to allow for conversation and wine, without getting hungry or impatient. I will admit, the prices are out of my usual budget, but this would be a fantastic place to go for a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary, or if you are visiting the area and want to treat yourself. The food was really tasty, and I am definitely a convert when it comes to French Sauvignon, having stuck to New Zealand in the past.
Brasserie Blanc Bournemouth is open and available to take bookings. You can book direct over the phone on 01202 200899 or via their website booking page.
I was invited along to Brasserie Blanc Bournemouth for the purpose of review, however all words and images are my own.
