FOR a calm and relaxing location you can’t get better than The Jetty restaurant, which sits on the water’s edge.

Located within the grounds of the Christchurch Harbour Hotel, Michelin star chef Alex Aitken took over at The Jetty, formerly Rhodes South, in 2010.

Alex, who is self-taught, achieved his Michelin-star in 1995 while at Le Poussin in Brockenhurst and went on to launch the Lime Wood in Lyndhurst.

He has also worked in the New Forest for the past 25 years, starting his career as a trawler man.

Now is the perfect time to visit to The Jetty, as the restaurant recently won gold in the Taste of the South West category; scooping the top accolade at prestigious South West Tourism Excellence Awards ceremony.

Alex Aitken and his son AJ, who head up the team at The Jetty, said: “A fantastic achievement by all at The Jetty, we are so proud that our philosophy of seasonal, simple, local food has been recognised.

“Thanks to all the loyal and local support from customers and suppliers.”

As Gold Award winners in the South West of England, The Jetty has now been put forward for Taste of England at the National Enjoy England Awards for Excellence later in 2012, so watch this space.

The restaurant is currently offering two-courses for £17.95 or three for £21.95 – Monday to Saturday lunchtime and Monday to Thursday 6.30pm – 7.30pm.

Give it a try.