Since 2013, Mad Cucumber has been quietly going about its business on The Triangle in West Cliff, a fully vegan lounge café in a town that isn't exactly short of meat-heavy pub grub. Billed as Bournemouth's first dedicated vegan venue, it came about when a former hair salon was reworked, with help from family and friends, into the rustic, upcycled space still standing today.
Homecooked, plant-based food
Rather than fussy plating, the kitchen goes for simple, comforting dishes: salads, a hearty nut roast, hot dogs and crushed avocado on toast all appear, alongside daily specials that shift with the seasons. An in-house bakery turns out cakes, cookies and other treats, and there's a smoothie bar too, for something cold. Gluten-free choices sit alongside the vegan menu, and the team regularly caters for other allergens on request, so it's always worth mentioning when you book or order.
The setting
Rather than a polished café look, mismatched furniture, soft lighting and upcycled decor give Mad Cucumber a cosy, unpretentious character. Fitting with its laid-back personality, it's dog-friendly, and works just as well for a quiet coffee and cake as for a full lunch.
Good to know
The café runs Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 4pm, with Saturday extended to 6pm and the kitchen closing an hour before the venue shuts; Mondays are a closed day. Beyond eating in, takeaway, delivery and catering are all offered, and celebration cakes can be ordered in advance. Bookings run through tableagent.com or by phoning directly.
A short walk from the seafront and West Cliff's clifftop paths, Mad Cucumber makes an easy stop before or after time on the beach, see more in our food & drink guide and our things to do guide for the rest of West Cliff.