Gossip Cicchetti brings a flavour of Venice to Poole Road in Westbourne: an Italian kitchen centred on cicchetti, the small sharing plates served in the bacari, or wine bars, of northern Italy. Wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta join them on the menu, so it works for a full sit-down dinner just as well as for a leisurely graze with a glass of wine.
The food
Cicchetti are the core of the menu: small dishes intended to be ordered several at once and passed around the table, with the kitchen suggesting five or six between two people. Among them are antipasti such as burrata, olives and cured meats, bruschetta and crostini, and fritti including arancini and calamari. Pasta is offered in cicchetti and main sizes, and seafood is a strong thread, from prawns and mussels to richer dishes like lobster and crab linguini. Bread and dough are made fresh, truffle oil and San Marzano tomatoes appear throughout, and the pizzas are baked in the wood-fired oven. Because dishes and specials change, look at the restaurant's current menu before visiting.
Atmosphere
Gossip is a compact, characterful room built around an open kitchen and pizza oven, which gives it a relaxed, buzzy feel on a busy evening. Small plates make for a sociable, unhurried meal: dishes come out as they're ready and the table slowly fills up. It's a warm, welcoming place that suits a couple just as much as a group catching up over shared plates and a bottle.
Where it is
Gossip sits on Poole Road at the centre of Westbourne, one of the most attractive corners of Bournemouth. This leafy village between Poole and the town centre is known for its Grade II-listed Victorian shopping arcade, its independent delis and its easy café culture, so a meal here goes naturally with a wander round the shops. Read more about the area in our guide to Westbourne, and find other nearby restaurants in our food & drink guide.
Good to know
Gossip is open on most days of the week from around midday, but hours can vary with the season, so check the restaurant's website for current times. Booking is wise, particularly at weekends, since the room is small and fills up fast. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are marked on the menu and kids' portions are available, so a mixed table is well served. There is no dedicated car park, though Westbourne has on-street parking and public car parks a short walk away. For the latest menu and hours, and to reserve a table, contacting Gossip directly is always the best approach.