Blog post by Lu Appleton

Think there’s nowhere good to eat and drink in Boscombe? Think again! Boscombe is in fact home to some real hidden gems. From newly opened vegetarian, raw eateries, quirky coffee-catch up scenes to the original and best lunch and dinner spots, Boscombe has plenty of options to choose from. Feast your eyes on some of my favourites!

1. Café Boscanova

Boasting an impressive and varied menu including some all time favourites, such as ‘pimpable’ pancake stacks, the full English breakfast and veggie and vegan dishes to name just a few, Boscanova has made quite a name for itself! Served in a buzzing coffee lovers’ setting with a Bohemian vibe, Boscanova is known for its friendly staff, good music and of course its freshly roasted, amazing tasting coffee. Number 2 on Trip Advisor for best breakfasts in Bournemouth, this is most certainly worth a visit! The homemade Chia Latte is an absolute winner too, made with top-secret recipe Chia syrup; this is Christmas in a cup, perfect for the festive season.

650 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH1 4BP

2. Sukha Lounge

One of Bournemouth’s only Vegetarian, Raw café’s, the trendy and vibrant Sukha Lounge comes highly recommended. Housed within the Yoga Lounge, this delight is the perfect post-yoga hangout, or in my opinion, Sukha is worth a special visit even if you’re not getting your yogi on! The menu offerings are creative, fresh, colourful and delicious. Everything is suitable for vegetarians and there are many raw and vegan dishes on offer too. Choose from freshly made breakfasts including buckwheat pancakes, overnight oats or a chia seed pudding, raw salads, super-charged smoothies, shakes, or lovingly sourced hot drinks and enjoy them in a relaxing, peaceful setting with friendly and welcoming staff. The presentation of the food is amazing and makes for the perfect Instagram post!

Ground Floor, 706 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH7 6BY

 

3. Reef Encounter

Just a stone’s throw away from Boscombe pier, this beachfront restaurant has a warm, relaxed and welcoming feel, perfect for a visit after a fresh beach walk. The food is reasonably priced, especially for such a great location, and the extensive menu offers breakfast, brunch, grilled mains, kids food, gluten free options and even a Sunday roast. Reef also hosts free live music every Friday night from 8pm, described as the best laid back acoustic sounds from the South’s leading musicians making for a great atmosphere to accompany a delicious dinner or a classic and refreshing cocktail. If sitting outside, the restaurant is also dog friendly, again very convenient at the end of a beach stroll.

42 Sea Road, Bournemouth, BH5 1BQ

4. Chicken & Blues

 

Boscombe is the original home of the award winning Chicken & Blues, which first opened its doors in Boscombe in 2013. This favourite has been pleasing returning patrons time and time again ever since. Proudly serving ‘Mama’s award winning chicken’ which won’t break the bank, the locally owned eatery now has a loyal following of customers who wouldn’t get their chicken fix anywhere else! Favourites include the award winning fresh BBQ chicken and the ever-popular wraps. With a quirky, cool vibe and chilled out atmosphere, this is a must visit for lunch or dinner.

563 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH1 4AH

 

5. Urban Reef

Open seven days a week, Urban Reef serves food and drinks with passion and experience. The two floors of the restaurant mean you can relax and watch the chefs prepare your meals in front of you in the open plan kitchen, gaze out at the stunning seaview whilst enjoying your warming coffee, refreshing fresh juice or cocktail to make a special occasion, or opt to enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the upper level. Using locally sourced, organic and home-grown ingredients where possible, the portions are generous and the service is renowned as excellent and welcoming. Well worth a visit to enjoy the boho, rustic and unique vibe.

The Overstrand, Undercliff Drive, Bournemouth, BH5 1BN