Looking for some South Coast inspiration on where to celebrate that special occasion or night out?

Whether you're in search of the trendiest spot to capture Instagram-worthy moments with your friends, a cozy and intimate setting for a romantic dinner for two, or the perfect destination for beautiful wines and to indulge in the ultimate fine dining experience, I have you covered! Below you will find a few of my favourite places to eat for different budgets and occasions, which I will regularly update - I hope you enjoy my latest recommendations!

Live it. Love it.

Blue Jasmine Restaurant Southampton

Blue Jasmine (Southampton)

  • Probably my favourite restaurant in Southampton! If you’re looking to impress and love Asian Fusion cuisine then this is the place for you. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, or simply want an amazing fine dining experience the food, wine, cocktails, and decor are incredible and definitely worth the money in my opinion!

Figurati Southampton

Figuratti (Southampton)

  • If you love good Italian food, then Figurati is well worth a visit. A delightful addition to Southampton's dining scene. Known for its warm ambiance and a menu that showcases the rich flavours of Italy. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a catch-up with friends, or a family-friendly meal, Figurati has something for everyone.

Har Bar on 6th Southampton

Har Bar on 6th (Southampton)

  • Now if you’re looking for cocktails with a view, then Har Bar is for you. Nestled on the 6th Floor of the Harbour Hotel, it’s the perfect place for celebrations, afternoon tea, or drinks on the balcony. It also servers an array of delicious modern dishes. This is usually where you will find me on a hot sunny day!

The Jetty Southampton

The Jetty (Southampton)

  • I went here with family for my birthday. If you love seafood and want something a little bit special then The Jetty is worth a visit. Also located in the Harbour Hotel but on the ground floor, you can enjoy stunning waterfront views while savouring a superb menu, perfect for those seeking an upscale dining experience in a beautiful setting.

Chesil Rectory (Winchester)

  • The Ivy never fails to disappoint in my opinion. Whether you are out with loved ones for a special occasion, or you’re with friends and are simply looking for great cocktails, good modern British cuisine and lovely surroundings you can’t really go wrong!

Brasserie Blanc Winchester

Brasserie Blanc (Winchester)

  • Palm Pan Asia is a restaurant offering a diverse menu of Asian cuisine, including dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and more. They are known for their authentic Asian flavours and great service, definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a taste of the orient.

Palm Pan Asia Winchester

Palm Asia (Winchester)

  • Brasserie Blanc provides a taste of French culinary excellence in the heart of Winchester, making it a great choice if you love French cuisine and a sophisticated dining experience. Bight and modern surroundings, you know what you’re going to get - it really doesn’t disappoint.

The Ivy Winchester

The Ivy (Winchester)

  • This historic restaurant, housed in a 600-year-old building, offers a charming atmosphere with a menu featuring modern British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The Chesil Rectory is known for its romantic ambiance and exquisite food, making it a favourite for special occasions.

Rick Stein Poole

Rick Stein (Bournemouth)

  • Known for its exquisite seafood dishes, bustling ambience and stunning views of Sandbanks Beach. It’s one of the places to be seen and great to celebrate a special occasion while soaking up the stunning sea views.

Drgnfly (Bournemouth)

  • Praised for its farm-to-table concept, sourcing ingredients from their own garden and local suppliers, if you’re looking for a sustainable homely and wholesome menu and stunning surroundings then this could be for you.

Pig on the beach Bournemouth

The Pig on the Beach Bournemouth)

  • I love this hidden gem! Nestled in the heart of Ashley Cross, DRGNFLY is an elegant contemporary Pan Asian Fusion restaurant. It serves a variety of dishes with a focus on quality and creativity, where East meets West. I always recommend this place!

Neo (Bournemouth)

  • An elegant space with views of the seafront and gardens to create a truly unique dining experience. They offer a contemporary take on traditional British cuisine, with a strong focus on local and sustainable ingredients. A great place for date night or meeting friends!

Not from the South Coast? If you’re looking for somewhere a little further afield, check out a few of my other suggestions (click on the picture to go to the website)…

Namii: Manchester - Vietnamese dishes & creative cocktails [£15-£25 avg. main course].

Namii: Manchester - Vietnamese dishes & creative cocktails [£15-£25 avg. main course].

20 Stories: Manchester - Rooftop British Restaurant with 360° views [£20-£40 avg. for a main course]

20 Stories: Manchester - Rooftop British Restaurant with 360° views [£20-£40 avg. for a main course]

Duck & Waffle - Located on the 40th floor of a skyscraper, it offers stunning views of London along with a menu featuring British and European dishes. [£24-£50 for a main course]

Duck & Waffle - Located on the 40th floor of a skyscraper, it offers stunning views of London along with a menu featuring British and European dishes. [£24-£50 for a main course]

Tokii: London - Bringing artistic flair to fine dining, serving Japanese cuisine with a Euro-fusion twist. [££££]

Tokii: London - Bringing artistic flair to fine dining, serving Japanese cuisine with a Euro-fusion twist. [££££]