It’s almost our five year anniversary of living in Bournemouth – we got the keys to the studio on 1st November 2017 and moved here for that very reason. And what better place to settle. Since then, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to eat, drink and explore so that now we have a definitive list of our favourite things to do in this seaside town. Before or after a Yoga class, of course.
Drink a Cherry Bakewell Cocktail at Cosy Club
Remember those Cherry Bakewell cakes with the white icing and glace cherry you had as a child? This is kind of like that, but an adult version in drink form. And it tastes even better. This cocktail is made with Mount Gay Rum, Luxardo Amaretto, caramel and cherry juice.
Now, you don’t have to be in the market for a cocktail to visit Cosy Club. These guys have you covered with a full food menu that moves from breakfast to lunch all the way to dinner. For breakfast you might go for the huevos rancheros, which is a flour tortilla with fried eggs, black beans, avocado, harissa, tomato salsa, lime and coriander, or something more simple like the smashed avocado with tomato, chilli and lime served on sourdough toast. Lunch or dinner might be anything from bang bang cauliflower, Primavera salad, a burger, or an avocado and white bean hummus bowl.
Go for a walk along the coastline
One of the major benefits of this coastal town is that it’s full of varied views that are some of the finest on the south coast. The natural harbours, the high cliffs, the golden beaches. They can all help you forget about your worries. As the coastline winds around, you can explore all the way from Lyme Regis on the west side of the county through to Highcliff on the east. One day I’d like to walk the 18 miles from Sandbanks to Milford on Sea.
Dive head first into a full breakfast at Urban Reef
Whether you’re post surf, post run or post Yoga class, there’s nothing better than a big plate of nutritious food. And Urban Reef really knows how to deliver. As the weather gets cooler, we’re reaching for the Full Veggie Up served with veggie sausage, two poached eggs, flat mushroom, grilled tomato, baked beans, hash brown bites, wilted spinach and toasted Bakehouse24 Sourdough. If you’re into sweet things you can go for American style pancakes. If healthy is more you, the chia seed granola might be more your idea of a good breakfast. Or of course there’s eggs benedict, eggs royale or eggs florentine.
Take a sunset stroll along the beach
This one we haven’t been able to do in a while. But there’s nothing better than a balmy night, the water in front of you, the sky changing colours by the minute. What better way to watch the sun set than by the water? BYO snacks to really step this one up a notch.
Share a feast at Sambal Tumis
When delicious Hawker style street food comes to Bournemouth, you go. At least we do. This menu is designed to share with lots catering to those who don’t eat gluten, dairy or meat. Small plates start with deep fried fermented tofu (fried chicken wings is another option, carnivores), roti and dhal, spicy mango salad, and spring rolls. Larger plates see seasonal whole or fillet of fish, aubergine or pineapple curry, and the nasi lemak or goreng. Plus there’s a whole noodle menu. Malaysian soft drinks, fresh juice, hot drinks and BYO alcohol make for good drinks options. And the space really offers the south east asian vibe you’re looking for. It’s the kind of place you’d feel comfortable eating alone, a table for two on date night, or a larger table to gather with friends.
Sip a pint of beer at The Way Outback
After the sun has set on yet another day, why not head to The Way Outback for a pint (or two?) of beer with friends. And these guys allow you to get food from nearby restaurants and bring it with you. Dinner sorted as well.