Set along the independent high street of Southbourne Grove, The Larderhouse has built up a loyal local following as a restaurant and bar where fire does most of the work. The cooking here centres on a wood-fired oven and a charcoal grill, and that focus on flame and smoke carries through into nearly everything that lands on the table.
The food
The kitchen takes a modern European approach with clear Spanish and Mediterranean leanings, and the format has moved towards small, shareable plates listed on boards that change from day to day. Menus track the seasons and local suppliers, so what's on offer shifts from one visit to the next, though you can expect things like whole fish such as black bream, slow-cooked pork belly and lamb, fresh oysters, and generous charcuterie and cheese boards. Sunday stands apart as its own event: the Sunday roast has long been a signature dish on this part of the coast. Prices fall in the mid-to-upper range for the area, and since the boards change so frequently, checking the current menu before visiting is worthwhile.
Atmosphere
The mood stays relaxed yet full of character, with quirky, thoughtfully designed interiors and the oven's warmth anchoring the room. A rear courtyard, enclosed and heated, extends dining well past the summer months, while upstairs holds a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its carefully crafted drinks and a genuinely strong wine list. Noise and energy build when it's full, part of the appeal rather than a drawback, so it suits a sociable evening or a leisurely weekend lunch more than a quiet, formal dinner.
Where it is
The Larderhouse sits at 4 Southbourne Grove, right in the centre of Southbourne, a clifftop suburb with a village feel a few miles east of Bournemouth town centre. The Grove itself is a leafy, independent high street lined with bakeries, delis and cafés, while the overcliff promenade and sandy Southbourne Beach sit only a short stroll away, making it easy to combine a meal with a walk along the seafront. For further options across the bay, browse our food & drink guide.
Good to know
Booking is worth doing, particularly for weekends and Sunday lunch, and larger groups may be asked for a deposit. Vegetarian dishes do feature on the boards, though the emphasis stays firmly on fire-cooked meat and fish, so call ahead if you have particular dietary requirements. No dedicated car park exists, though on-street parking is usually possible around the Grove, so check local restrictions. Since the kitchen cooks to the season, confirm the latest menu, opening hours and other details directly with the restaurant before heading over.