MENU dorset #01 | Page 53

STOP tout ea fresh it is straight off the boat, and the Portland Royal oysters are delicious. The Acorn Inn I f you are a fan of delicious, rich French food then Isabel’s is for you. A hidden gem for many, the quirky French interior of the converted 19th century pharmacy is a real experience. Chef Luciano Trisconi and his wife Maggie have been running Isabel’s for more than 35 years. The candlelit dining room includes cosy booths perfect for a romantic dinner. There is a choice of the bistro and a la carte menus, including set prices. Unsurprisingly, this Michelin recommended restaurant offers a phenomenal choice of French food that will not disappoint. Reservations are essential. The Crab House Café Ferrymans Way, Portland Road, Wyke Regis, DT4 9YU www.crabhousecafe.co.uk 01305 788867 For when you want to experience cracking a crab with friends or family 28 Fore Street, Evershot, DT2 0JW www.acorn-inn.co.uk 01935 83228 This traditional village pub is perfect for hosting family lunches as well as for a special treat 53 S ome say it takes 400 years to make a pub this good. In this case, the sentiment may be true. The iconic pub, situated in one of the most iconic villages in Dorset, has retained all of its original character and charm. The restaurant is commended on its sustainability for its ethical purchasing of local, seasonal produce and working with suppliers who adhere to good husbandry and free range practices. Both the a la carte and bar menu offer great choices and also family friendly food. For a great meal in a characterful pub, this is your best choice. MENU Koh Thai Tapas T he concept of the Crab House café is that the food speaks for itself. The unpretentious location, complete with crab fishermen arriving throughout the day and preparing their catch, is laid back and inviting. On a sunny day it feels as if you’ve been jetted abroad as you look over Chesil Beach. If you’ve never experienced cracking a whole crab (they are served on large wooden boards with a hammer, nut-crackers, various picks and forks and a bib) then this is a must. The seafood is so 38-40 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 5PS www.koh-thai.co.uk 01202 294723 Occasion: Great venue for a big meal with friends T hai food is such a favourite for many that when Koh Thai Tapas opened it was a red letter day for gourmands across the county. The first restaurant in Boscombe is a more intimate location but the bigger Bournemouth restaurant is a visual treat. The food is delicious and the atmosphere enhances the occasion. It’s fun but at the same time authentically Thai, bringing those fresh South East Asian flavours to Bournemouth’s food scene. www.menu-dorset.co.uk Send us your dinners Have you made a pilgrimage to a foodie destination in the county? Do our readers need to know about your latest gastro find? Then please share your knowledge by emailing us at Info@menu-dorset. co.uk