The best alfresco dining options
So this is it - we can almost go out and enjoy a meal (albeit alfresco for now). Who else is exciiiiiited?
As of 12th April, outdoor areas at restaurants, cafes and pubs can reopen, including for takeaway alcohol. The rule of six or two households will apply, and in most cases, booking is essential.
I’ve been looking for somewhere to book for a special occasion, and I thought I’d share my research in case anyone else finds it useful. These are some of my favourite places in Highcliffe, Mudeford, Christchurch and Barton on Sea that have got their al fresco game well and truly sorted. Bonus points for heaters and shelter, because we can’t count on English weather in April, can we?
Open from 12th April
The Kitchen at Chewton Glen - A picturesque and peaceful outdoor area offering a new Spring menu. (See photo).
Cliffhanger - Cliffhanger’s amazing takeaway kiosk has kept us going throughout lockdown, but soon you’ll be able to enjoy a meal in the new grassed and roofed outdoor seating area - open from 9am daily. To celebrate reopening they will have live music from the Swing Easy Band, 12-2pm.
The Noisy Lobster - Book a table on the upper terrace and choose from the full drinks menu and a selection of cold seafood bar snacks. Or you can grab something from the Lobster Hatch takeaway (the menu includes homemade pizza, brioche baguettes, fish and chips or a whole lobster) and eat it at your table.
The Oaks - This place has a fantastic outdoor area, but they have improved it further with a heated stretch tent so you can enjoy your meal whatever the weather. They also have the cutest beach huts which are toasty warm with the heaters on, and are available from 17th May.
The Cliff House - A great choice for outdoor dining at the best of times due to the panoramic sea views, but they’ve improved it further. The new Garden Bar and Kitchen is an under cover area with heaters. Plus, there will be a BBQ on the lawn every day from 12pm, weather permitting.
Boathouse - This place by the river in Christchurch has a covered veranda area and is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and all the bits in between.
Open from 14th April
Pebble Beach - This place in Barton on Sea has award-winning food and views to rival The Med. If and when the sun comes out, the terrace is a lovely sun trap.
The Jetty and Upper Deck - Located at Christchurch Harbour Hotel, these two restaurants are sharing the stylish Upper Deck terrace. It’s covered, there are plenty of heaters and you can enjoy views of Mudeford Quay along with Alex Aitken’s incredible food.
Photo credit: The Kitchen at Chewton Glen
