El Murrino is a family-owned Italian restaurant on Old Christchurch Road, right in the middle of Bournemouth town centre. Its wood-fired pizzas and traditional Italian cooking have earned it a loyal local crowd, and it's the kind of place people return to for an unhurried dinner, a fast lunch mid-shopping, or a big table shared with friends.
What's on the plate
Pizza is what the kitchen is known for. The dough gets a long, slow prove before being stretched by hand and cooked in a wood-burning oven at very high heat, a matter of a minute or two, just enough to char and blister the crust while the middle stays soft. A good share of the ingredients are imported from Italy, and the menu trades on that authenticity instead of novelty toppings.
Away from the pizza oven there's a recognisable line-up of Italian favourites: fresh pasta, risotto, antipasti and salads, then desserts including tiramisu to round things off. It works equally well for a light snack or a full sit-down dinner. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices run through the menu and allergens are marked, so mixed groups should be well catered for. The dishes do change from time to time, so have a look at the current menu on the restaurant's website before you visit.
Inside
The dining room is bright and contemporary, and the kitchen is open, so you can watch the pizzaiolo shaping dough and the oven at full blast. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal: music in the background, friendly service and a constant hum rather than hushed formality. Small practical details such as USB charging points at some of the tables show it's designed for everyday, walk-in eating, and a few outdoor tables come into use when the weather is warm.
It suits a solo diner, a family (highchairs are provided) or a bigger gathering equally well, and the mood fits a low-key weekday lunch as comfortably as a busier Saturday night.
Location
El Murrino is on Old Christchurch Road, one of the main streets for shopping and eating in the town centre, near Horseshoe Common. From here the Square, the Lower Gardens and the pier are all a comfortable walk away, so a meal slots easily into a longer day in town. The central position means good bus links and a short hop from the train station; drivers will need one of the public car parks nearby. Our restaurants guide lists more places to eat in the area.
Before you go
The restaurant draws a crowd and can be full, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, so reserve in advance if you have a particular time in mind or are bringing a group. It's set up mainly for dining in, but takeaway and delivery are available too, useful if you'd prefer that wood-fired pizza on your own sofa. For current menus, hours, prices and reservations, get in touch with El Murrino or look at their website, and browse our food & drink guide for more options around town.