WINTON’S Conto Lounge opened its doors in January 2012, but in just 12 months it has become a thriving restaurant and bar offering cocktails and a range of meals.

The Wimborne Road business is the sister to Southbourne’s Ludo Lounge and Westbourne’s Circo Lounge, and comes highly recommended for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

I visited with a friend on a weekday lunchtime, and was impressed with how busy it was.

There was also a lovely feel to the restaurant, which is family-friendly, with a fairly limited menu for little ones at a cheaper price.

A chalkboard by the door advertises a huge number of delicious-sounding meals, including tapas, ciabattas and more traditional all-day breakfasts, but I ended up choosing a generously-categorised ‘salad’ with honey and cumin roasted root vegetables, haloumi and curried parsnip crisps for £8.50.

My dining companion decided on an 8oz lounge burger with a dill pickle, tomato and red onion marmalade, served with a house salad and fries, which also cost £8.50.

We ordered at the bar following a chat with the friendly waitress, who made us feel very welcome.

The food arrived quickly, and the first thing I noticed about my meal was the lovely presentation.

Better still, it tasted wonderful, as the salty haloumi complemented the sweetness of the vegetables.

The parsnip crisps, which were crunchy and very light, added texture and extra bite to the meal.

My friend said his burger was faultlessly tender and had real depth of flavour, which was complemented by the tangy marmalade.

We topped off our meals with Diet Cokes, but will no doubt be returning to try the cocktails, which range in price from £6.25 for the sharp-sounding lemon drop to £6.95 for a refreshing raspberry mojito.

This is an independent review by a reporter without the cooperation of the establishment.

My Conto Lounge bill:

2 x Diet Coke  £4
Lounge Burger  £8.50
Honey and cumin roasted root vegetables and haloumi with rocket, chard and  curried parsnip crisps  £8.50

TOTAL:   £21

The Ratings Board

Location ***

Atmosphere ****

Value for money ****

Quality of food *****

Service ****

Comfort ***

Family friendly ****

Menu choice ****

Overall rating ****

Recommend to a friend? Yes!