IT is one of the most dominant buildings on the Bournemouth clifftop. Yet the Cumberland Hotel's Ventana Grand Cafe could not be more welcoming.

From the moment we stepped over the threshold into the hotel's reception, a feeling of calm descended, and the ambience of the brasserie itself means you feel instantly relaxed.

The decor is decadent, but not over the top, chic while still managing to be comfortable. Comfy chairs with cushions make for a less-formal setting and the ambient lighting and calming background music combined perfectly to set the mood.

In keeping with the art deco style of the rest of the hotel, the restaurant has warming, classy decor. With its black and white theme, brightened by the hot pink of the staff's uniforms and red cushions in the armchairs, which are seated at many tables in place of more formal dining chairs, the brasserie provides the perfect setting for either a relaxed dinner a deux or a group gathering.

Refurbished several years ago, it was also awarded an AA Red Rosette in 2011. The menu changes seasonally - a whole new set of dishes will be available this month for the summer season - but many of the customer's favourite dishes remain.

Others are simply adapted to suit the new season - served with salad or risotto in place of potatoes and gravy. There are also weekly specials, so you really are spoilt for choice.