The Gourmet Grocer in Highcliffe

I always thought that when Highcliffe high street got a greengrocers, it would be a good sign that we’re ‘on the up.’ And guess what? The Gourmet Grocer opens tomorrow (Thursday 18th November).

Clare and Gareth opened The Gourmet Grocer in Fordingbridge four years ago, and they hope to replicate their success in Highcliffe. I visited this afternoon for an early sneak peek, and I can tell you, it’s a food-lovers’ paradise. Stuffed to the gills with gorgeous fruit and veg, bespoke hampers, Fluffetts eggs, Wessex Mill flour, local beers, ciders, wines and spirits, Bad Hand Coffee and Dorset Tea, to name but a few of the goodies on offer.

It’s a real showcase of local produce, which just reinforces how amazing Dorset is for food and drink. I’ll be visiting to stock up on Christmas treats for my family, as well as buying presents and gift vouchers for others.

I wish Clare and Gareth all the best for their grand opening, and urge local people to use this wonderful shop. Shopping locally is a brilliant opportunity to reduce your plastic waste, to really know where your food has come from and to support local producers and businesses.