Intense is a compact, laid-back café-bistro on Poole Road in Branksome, on the Poole side of the Bournemouth conurbation, more widely known to regulars and delivery apps as Intense UK Bistro. It's independently run and has built its reputation around all-day breakfasts and brunch rather than a more formal dining offer.
Food with a fusion edge
The menu favours hearty, crowd-pleasing dishes: full English and continental breakfasts, brunch staples and a line-up of burgers with a playful, international edge, the Flamenco Burger with chorizo is the dish most often mentioned by reviewers, alongside kebabs and other made-to-order options. It suits a substantial breakfast before a walk along Poole Road, or a casual meal rather than an occasion to dress up for. As with any independent café, dishes and specials do change, so check current options before visiting.
Practical details
Reported hours show the bistro closed on Mondays, open for breakfast and brunch service until early afternoon on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, and running later into the evening from Thursday to Saturday. It's noted as family-friendly with a kids' menu, has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and allows dogs both inside and in outdoor seating. Takeaway and delivery are offered in addition to eating in.
Intense forms part of a wider cluster of independent cafés and restaurants along Poole Road and through Branksome. Browse the rest of our food & drink guide for more options nearby, or see our things to do guide for ways to spend the rest of a day in this part of Poole. As always with smaller independents, confirm current hours and menu directly with the venue before visiting.