BOASTING a stunning view, fine food and relaxing ambience – there’s a winning recipe here for a perfect evening out.

Discovering new hotels to dine at in Dorset has become a quest for 24Seven and The Chine Hotel at 25 Boscombe Spa Road in Bournemouth is one eaterie that tops the list.

Part of the FJB Collection, The Chine Hotel boasts three AA stars next to its name.

As far as locations go The Chine ranks up there with the best.

Panoramic views of Boscombe and Bournemouth beach, only a ten-minute walk away, can be soaked up whilst seated in the Chine’s stunning Seaview Restaurant.

The Chine Hotel is a traditional Victorian style building, which is perfect for all ages, all year round. Set in three acres of beautiful, mature gardens, the hotel overlooks the tree tops and out to sea.

Open to all, the award-winning and charming Seaview Restaurant serves lunch and dinner. Dishes are freshly prepared using local ingredients by their AA Red Rosette award winning team led by head chef Claudio Notarbartolo.

So did it live up to my expectations?

The answer is yes.

On the menu was a mouth-watering medley of dishes to pick from such as smoked trout, wild bass and plantation pork tenderlion.

With freshly caught fish, carefully selected cuts of meat and excellent vegetarian options using local and seasonal produce, The Seaview’s delicious menu is accompanied by a superb wine list catering for every palate.

The seasonal menu offers three courses for £24.95, or two courses for just £18.95. Not to mention a delicious three course Christmas lunch and coffee menu from 12.30pm for £69.50 per person.

With its beautiful, tastefully decorated surroundings, adorned with damask prints, decorative chairs, chandeliers, and signed photos of famed comedians on the wall including Terry Thomas, Frankie Howerd and Arthur Askey, the Chine Hotel offers a wonderful setting for a wonderful, well-crafted, quality meal with a high level of service to match.