The Jetty
Dorset, Christchurch - Modern British - Restaurant - ££
Positioned on the water's edge to max out the views across Christchurch Harbour, The Jetty is a modern construction with acres of glass to ensure that those panoramic vistas are served up to one and all (there's a terrace, too, if you want to feel even closer to nature). Alex Aitken is a chef with a passion for seasonal cooking (and a bit of a legend in these parts), and it's satisfying to report that fresh seafood from local waters is the backbone of his menu – no surprise given the glorious coastal location. Cockle popcorn, crispy and lightly spiced, is a little snack which sums up the ambition and joie de vivre of the place. A starter plate of sashimi (including sea bass and scallop) stands or falls on its freshness and its classic Japanese accompaniments, or there's fish soup – a classic from another continent. Elsewhere, cod and crab are firm friends, the former topped with the latter in a herby crust, and it's worth keeping an eye out for the 'catch of the d...
Positioned on the water's edge to max out the views across Christchurch Harbour, The Jetty is a modern construction with acres of glass to ensure that those panoramic vistas are served up to one and all (there's a terrace, too, if you want to feel even closer to nature). Alex Aitken is a chef with a passion for seasonal cooking (and a bit of a legend in these parts), and it's satisfying to report that fresh seafood from local waters is the backbone of his menu – no surprise given the glorious coastal location. Cockle popcorn, crispy and lightly spiced, is a little snack which sums up the ambition and joie de vivre of the place. A starter plate of sashimi (including sea bass and scallop) stands or falls on its freshness and its classic Japanese accompaniments, or there's fish soup – a classic from another continent. Elsewhere, cod and crab are firm friends, the former topped with the latter in a herby crust, and it's worth keeping an eye out for the 'catch of the day'. Away from the coast, there are other options such as beef carpaccio or a deliciously green spring risotto to start, followed by the likes of lamb panzanella with rosemary polenta. For afters, crêpe Suzette soufflé combines two archetypal French desserts. A tasting menu might fit the bill if the whole table is on board, while the vegan and vegetarian option doesn't stint on creativity or flavour. The wine list opens at £29, and includes sections dedicated to 'cult and classic' whites and reds.
VENUE DETAILS
Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa, 95 Mudeford
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23 3NT
01202 400950
OTHER INFORMATION
Accommodation, Separate bar, Wheelchair access, Parking, Electric car charging, Family friendly