IF YOU want locally sourced, sustainable food in a great location then this is the right venue.

Executive chef Matt Budden, left, has made changes to the this restaurant at the stunning West Cliff location that retains the wow factor and is aimed at pleasing the locals. And as a Bournemouth man, born and bred, Matt is also keen to promote his hometown as a foodie destination.

“I think that’s part of the chef’s role now,” he explained.

“You’re the face of the hotel because you can talk about food. “Food is such a popular topic.”

Matt wants to put the Highcliff Grill on the map as a restaurant that has its own identity and brand.

“There are no tablecloths, no formal dining rooms and there’s a relaxed atmosphere,” he said.

“We’ve changed the format of the menu and are taking down the barriers of people thinking of us only for special occasions.”

The emphasis at the Highcliff Grill is on modern British food, while also serving a wealth of local seafood. Matt’s personal menu favourite is steak with duck fat chips.

‘Local’ is a key word for Matt, who ensures everything served at the restaurant is sourced within the Dorset and Hampshire area.

He is involved with Real Local Flavour, an initiative bringing food businesses together across Dorset, Wiltshire and the New Forest, whilst proudly boasting the Grill’s recent accolade of being awarded a four out of five rating from Fish2Fork, a campaigning sustainability restaurant guide.

 

• The Weld Arms, East Lulworth
WITH summer sun hopefully upon us pub gardens and good food are the order of the day.

The Weld Arms in East Lulworth, right, knocks out some pretty fine food and is perfectly placed if you fancy a trip out to the Purbecks.

The last time we at 24Seven went there they were serving some good fish dishes and have a good choice of drinks too.

There’s plenty of room on the patio if it’s windy and a massive garden too.

 

• The Bankes Arms Country Inn, Studland
THIS pub beats most for its garden and it’s a short stroll from the beach too.

There are some good choices on the menu and though it can get busy it’s a great place to take in the scenery once you have your pint and your food.

The menu included great salmon and lamb shank dishes the last time we were there and it is a lovely spot to stop just for a refreshing drink too.

 

• Giggi Gelateria, Burlington Arcade off Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth

Giggi is a great stop off for a coffee or treat all year round but comes into its own in summer with its fantastic Italian Ice Cream.

It was listed by The Times as one of the top 10 ice cream parlours in the UK.

And on top of the winning ice creams they also offer macaroons, pastries, cakes and milkshakes.