Cristallo is an Italian restaurant and bar run by a family on West Cliff Road, set just back from Bournemouth's seafront and a few minutes on foot from the town centre. Over the years it has gathered a loyal following, and hundreds of reviews on Google, Tripadvisor and Facebook single out its traditional Italian cooking and friendly service.
What's on the menu
The menu keeps to the Italian dishes people know well: spaghetti bolognese and carbonara among the pastas, seafood risotto, pizzas, lamb cutlets and steaks, finished with desserts such as tiramisu and apple pie. There are vegetarian choices too. This is Italian comfort food rather than fine dining, and reviewers often note the generous portions and the care that goes into each plate.
The atmosphere
Cristallo feels like a proper neighbourhood Italian: warm, snug and slightly old-fashioned in the best way, with charming decor inside and tables outdoors for milder evenings. It works for a low-key date night, a family dinner or a catch-up with friends, and staff have been known to hand out blankets to outdoor diners when the evening turns chilly.
Practical details
Cristallo only opens in the evenings, generally from around 5pm, with the latest closing on Friday and Saturday nights. Since hours and menus can change, phone ahead on 01202 556767 or check its Facebook page before you go, particularly if you want to reserve a table.
For other places to eat close by, have a look at our food & drink guide, or combine dinner here with an evening out using our things to do guide.