IT'S hard to believe that it's been around six years since Branksome Beach restaurant opened its doors and wowed locals and visitors alike.

Last time round, we were enthusing about the location and food at Vesuvio along the prom, but there can be few more spectacular view of this glorious coastline than from our window table overlooking the beach.

Of course, a view like this doesn't come cheap, but while £8.95 for a full English looks steep, it's still reckoned to be worth every penny.

We're not so sure about the rather diminutive and pricey scallops and mushy peas that looked decidedly weedy alongside our guests' bowls of mussels in glorious white wine sauce.

Still, the Branksome Beach fish and chips made up for it

  • POPPED in to Parkstone's latest watering hole to find an array of cocktails that will blow your mind and not your budget.

Mai Tai opened two weeks ago after transforming a former charity shop opposite the Post Office in Ashley Cross in to a smart lounge bar with modern music and attentive staff.

As well as the usual suspects' you can push the boat out with some stunning Champagne cocktails for around £6, with most of the other ranging from £3.50 upwards. There are also wines and beers at decent prices too.

It's early days yet, but this one could be a winner.

  • FANCY a sneaky peak at the menu before you sit down to eat? Then get online to click2find.co.uk/dorset.

This site is a diner's delight with a comprehensive selection and choice of eating and drinking establishments throughout key locations in Dorset. With everything from information on venues and sample menus, to pictures and contact details you'll be spoilt for choice.

And it's not just customers singing the praises of Click2Find - restaurant owners and pub landlords are also reaping the rewards. As Karon Banks, General Manager of Ascott Gresham Court in Bournemouth said: "We took a superior listing on Click2Find in July and were very impressed with the set up of the site. When people are looking where to go for an enjoyable meal out it is great that they can view our newly refurbished restaurant and our menu all at the click of a mouse. The link to our own website really helps promote everything that we offer here".

If you're interested in being featured in Click2Find call 01202 411228.