£££Seafood
The upper floor of a striking, Grade-II-listed former fishmarket built from Portland stone is the setting for this characterfully rustic seafood restaurant. The tasting menu is based almost solely around fish and shellfish, with good use made of both high-end ingredients (native blue lobster) and less glamorous cuts elevated to impressive heights (skate jowl). In a heartening nod to the provenance of the produce, the name of the fishing boat and its skipper is noted next to each dish.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Rodwell, Catch at The Old Fishmarket specializes in seafood and locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Reviews frequently praise the high food quality and presentation, highlighting dishes like skate wing, oysters, and trout pastrami. The lunch tasting menu is particularly acclaimed. The atmosphere is described as relaxed and welcoming, with generally attentive service. However, punctuality is crucial as the entrance is locked and located upstairs. Negative feedback centers on inconsistent meal pacing, distant service, and concerns over value, with some guests finding prices high relative to portion sizes, particularly for wine pairings. While many consider it a top-tier dining experience, others find it pretentious or overpriced. It suits those prioritizing culinary provenance and innovation over cost-effectiveness.
Ideal for diners prioritizing ingredient provenance and culinary innovation; arrive exactly on time and manage price expectations.
££Traditional British
With its stunning clifftop location and menu packed full of delicious seafood, this bright and airy restaurant really makes the most of its seaside setting. It's housed within a long-standing yet fresh-looking hotel, while the restaurant itself sports a subtle maritime theme and retro touches – on a warm day, head straight for the terrace, with its spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast. While the menu is varied, it's hard to overlook the prime fish and shellfish, with dishes such as whole roasted brill spotlighting the quality of the ingredients.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.9/5 · 80 reviews
Located on the cliffs of West Bay, The Seaside Boarding House offers stunning views and cozy interiors, including a snug reading room. Based on 80 reviews averaging 3.9/5, positive feedback highlights warm service, delicious food such as asparagus starters and breakfast items, and a welcoming atmosphere. Conversely, negative reviews cite inconsistent service, with some staff described as untrained or unhelpful. Food quality varies, with reports of tough meat and overly salty potatoes. Controversy surrounds a 12.5% service charge added without prior consent, and tea is criticized for being weak and generic. While many praise the location and hospitality, others express disappointment regarding service standards and dining consistency.
Suitable for travelers seeking sea views and social gatherings, but verify service charges and dining expectations beforehand.
££Mediterranean Cuisine
A pretty 16th-century house plays host to this sweetly run restaurant, situated in a prime spot overlooking the small square of this characterful Dorset town. Inside, the bright, colourful décor adds to the endearing feel, with its countryside shabby-chic style. The concise, Mediterranean-inflected menu moves with the seasons to show off excellent produce, delivered with a palpable simplicity and textbook technique by the confident kitchen team. If you want to go all-in on the Brassica brand, visit their homewares store, Brassica Mercantile, across the road.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Brassica Restaurant in Beaminster offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on high-quality, handmade ingredients. Reviewers frequently praise the food's taste and freshness, noting that while the menu is short, it offers satisfying options like steaks and cinnamon buns. The atmosphere is described as warm and charming, blending dining with a retail shop experience. Service is generally friendly, though some guests reported inconsistent attitudes or lukewarm coffee. Negative feedback occasionally mentions unusual flavor combinations and the difficulty of securing reservations due to high demand. It is a reliable spot for those seeking quality food in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Ideal for diners seeking quality Mediterranean small plates in a cozy, shop-integrated setting; reservations are recommended.
£££Modern British
Few restaurants come with as delightful a setting as this. You arrive via a slow drive through the majestic tree-lined Parnham Park estate, culminating at a wonderful walled garden filled with impressive objets d’art. Take your seat in either the rustic-chic dining room in full view of the open kitchen, or in the glasshouse behind with its glorious garden views. Seasonality is the name of the game in the natural, flavour-forward dishes, from the ‘Parnham Pintxos’ snacks to foraged mushrooms with Jerusalem artichokes and Cornish gouda.