THE Olive Branch in Wimborne was positively buzzing the Friday evening we visited.

As we were led to our table through a packed attractive restaurant, we felt fortunate to have secured a booking earlier that day.

The pub/restaurant is warm and welcoming, with comfy leather sofas in the bar area making the diner feel immediately at home.

Our smiley waiter ‘Gabby’ was particularly attentive from the moment we arrived and ensured our drinks order got to us within moments of ordering.

The Olive Branch menu offered a good range of starters and mains. We were very tempted to start with one of the sharing platters, but my partner was thrilled when she spotted Tuna Tartare on the ‘specials’ board.

An individual dish you don’t normally see on the menu, she described it as ‘delicious’, with the ingredients well balanced and fresh. My choice of starter, however, the butternut squash and red onion croquettes was a little bland and I wasn’t sure that the chilli sauce went particularly well with it, but it had a nice crispy coating and the Monastralle red wine I was drinking with it was absolutely delicious.

We both opted for burgers as mains; a falafel cheese burger with bacon on the side plus a halloumi burger and some very crunchy french fries.

Both were very tasty and we left two very clean plates! And talking of plates, these seemed a little out of place – admittedly quaint, but flowery and old fashioned.

For dessert, the chocolate fondant was served slightly warm with a yummy gooey chocolate centre and then a choice from the specials board – the mince pie sundae.

Three tiny mince pies served in a tall glass with custard and ice cream. It was a strange combination and not a dish we would order another time.

The food at the Olive Branch is good although a little pricey.

The location with its own car park is very convenient, and riverside garden and terrace most appealing.

The atmosphere inside is great and the staff and service is excellent.

We will go back again soon!