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Abbots Cellar Restaurant at Priory Hotel in Purbeck - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

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4,60

Based on 229 opinions finded in 3 websites

4.6Ambience4.6Cuisine4.6Price4.6Service
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Nº 37 in 234 in Purbeck

Nº 7 of 77 British in Purbeck

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..cookedcoffeemustchocolatebeautifulpaylobsteroldroastcreamcanapes

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Sunday Roast with a twist. Traditional Roast with Roast Potatoes & Yorkshire Pudding but great vegetable medley plus Roast Beetroot & Red Cabbage

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MARGARET BOSWORTH . 2024-04-25

MORE AT Google

Came here on Saturday to have a few Proseccos (and an Easter cocktail!) - absolutely lovely little spot. The staff were warm, welcoming and attentive. We had such a good day sat in the sun that we’ve booked to come back for dinner (after seeing and smelling the food that was being brought out, how could we not?!) Highly recommend!

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Susie Walker . 2024-03-31

MORE AT Google

The hotel is in a great position on the riverside. Food and service first class. Not the cheapest but you get what you pay for . Nothing to fault. The hotel building itself is beautiful. We shall return soon

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Janice H . 2024-03-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Amazing food, amazing venue and wonderful staff! Absolutely loved eating here and can't wait to go back! 💕

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Soph Kins . 2024-03-10

MORE AT Google

Local produce prepared with care, attention to detail and most importantly flavour! We had a wonderfully relaxed evening with some great (very well priced) wines that matched up to our starters and mains very nicely. The ox cheek pie (wow... what chips!) and the venison ragu were both magificent. The only mild critisism was that we were so stuffed after the starters and main that we could not manage a pud and I really wanted to try their crumble... next time... (Great coffee too) Thank-you for a lovely evening.

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Stefan M . 2024-03-07

MORE AT Google

Such a little gem of a restaurant- great ambiance and food - takes time for the food to be prepared so don’t visit if in a rush - one to be savoured!

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Lis Pauley . 2024-02-16

MORE AT Google

Great food! Great service! French ambiance! A little expensive!!

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Anthony Forsyth . 2024-02-14

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My first time and had Sunday lunch absolutely stunning the roast potatoes were perfect. Had lamb cooked to perfection nice and pink as it should be. The whole ambience and dinning experience was first class. Meet Mark the chef and had a good Chat .....! I would recommend this place to people who enjoy good food cooked with love Fantastic👌

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Paul Beard . 2024-02-06

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We dined at The Priory Restaurant for a friends birthday and the food was exquisite. We can’t believe this gem of a restaurant has been on doorstep for so long and we hadn’t realised just how excellent the food, atmosphere and service were. The owner, chef and wait staff’s clear love of food and passion to support local produce shines through in the food. We will definitely be going back to eat and try some more cocktails on the menu, and a we’ll also be spreading the word! Highly recommended

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Gemma Kenward . 2024-02-04

MORE AT Google

Whow what a lovely atmosphere with such friendly staff and great food. I can recommend this restaurant for food and drinks. Ask the Head chef Mark for any changes and if it’s possible he will deliver. Thank you.

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Nick Solloway . 2024-02-02

MORE AT Google

By far the best Sunday roast I’ve had in a restaurant - the beef was perfectly rare, huge yorkshires and the best, crunchiest roasties that matched the quality of my mum’s!

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Carol & Darryl Cornelius . 2024-01-28

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Located down a cobbled lane next to the picturesque Priory in Christchurch, this restaurant was a real find. The staff are friendly, helpful and courteous. It uses local produce and the food is consistently brilliant. We've eaten breakfast, lunch and dinner here, and all have been fantastic. We wanted to give a special mention to the Sunday Roast, which was the best we've ever eaten out. The Perkins Family

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Georgia Perkins . 2024-01-20

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Really lovely bar and restaurant with absolutely delicious food and cocktails and cosy and sophisticated atmosphere. Very accommodating for vegan and gluten free food too - better than the Ivy! With great personal service

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Mary Sweeting . 2024-01-18

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Very charming and glamorous restaurant! What a find, great menu, service and restaurant. A gem.

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David McConnachie . 2024-01-10

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Fantastic food and atmosphere - a must try!

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Connor Henderson . 2024-01-07

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Shut the front door. This meal was perfection from start to finish. The food at the Priory was glorious, generous and refined. That's it.

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Cameron Brodie . 2023-12-30

MORE AT Google

Excelent food and so good service. We loved it ❤️

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Luisella G. . 2023-12-24

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We had the fabulous Christmas menu.The food was outstanding. Would highly recommend. We look forward to coming again!

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Georgina Oldcroft . 2023-12-09

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A truly brilliant and leisurely lunch. No pressure to disappear as we lingered over coffee. Very pleasant staff with easy (and lasting) smiles and immediate attention. (Blue) Red Devon beef perfectly matured and rare. Pork Belly again perfectly cooked and with crackling that singles out the chef as amazing. (any chance of the recipe?) Seasonal vegetables had wide options, fresh and beautifully prepared. So a small journey from Verwood was well worth the effort and will surely be repeated. As regards price, neither cheap nor extortionate and good value for the meal, surroundings and level of service. BC

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Brent C . 2023-11-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Oh my goodness... delicious food! We all loved our meals. I went for beef bourginion, better than the best home cooked and creme brulee. We also enjoyed a Clouded Leopard gin. Very relaxed cosy dining. Such caring and considerate staff too, who went above and beyond when my husband had to leave unexpectedly, plating his dinner up to take away with him. I feel terrible that as yet we haven't returned his dish... I promise it will be back with you very soon. 100% recommend. We will definitely be coming back... with the dish... and I think to try out your breakfasts next! Much appreciated all that you did - thank you!

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Becs Vince . 2023-11-18

MORE AT Google

Impeccable food, wine and service. We got lucky enough to experience some live jazz when we were there. Intimate, relaxing and joyous from the greeting to the desert.

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Stephen McGonigle . 2023-11-11

MORE AT Google

This was our first visit and we will definitely be back. Apart from the beautiful food, great service and atmosphere it was overall a lovely experience. Staff friendly, pleasant and very attentive. We loved the whole ambiance of this place and would highly recommend it.

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Rosemary Mcgonigle . 2023-11-11

MORE AT Google

Really enjoyed our visit to this venue. Nothing was too much trouble, will definitely be back, highly recommend

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John Kelly . 2023-11-11

MORE AT Google

Amazing. What more can I say! A wonderful meal and so accommodating for a 3 year old and 4 adults who were hungry. Great service and the food was beautifully cooked and presented. Shame we live so far away or this would be a regular place to eat. A gem that is undiscovered be prepared to book for a table.

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Michelle Biucchi . 2023-11-11

MORE AT Google

Nice coffee & cake. Friendly staff (& customers)

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Harry Craig . 2023-11-08

MORE AT Google

You'll find this review also on trustpilot. Unfortunately very very disappointed, tried this establishment for the first time and it will be the last. Luckily plenty of better places in Christchurch to enjoy. Whilst we were there 50% of the customers complained about the quality of their drinks refusing to drink them. Could not serve one other person a tea they'd ordered , instead without asking them gave them a completely different flavour. Strange ! Wasn't a warm welcome on entering and weren't given a menu , just asked what we wanted and unfortunately the waitress was not confident with the order and might have been better writing it down. Now I thought it was expensive but didn't question the bill and have just checked it . WARNING, I've been charged a wildlife donation, what is a wildlife donation, wasn't asked or made aware of this , disgusting really. Then charged 12.5% service charge, really ? Again, wasn't told and yes I should have checked my bill, I know, just warning others. £30 for 3 coffees and 3 small cakes, £4.50 each , no way. I give more positive feedback but needed to review this because it was so . One chance to make a first impression.

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Geoffrey Estall . 2023-11-04

MORE AT Google

Simple dish freshly cooked well presented and very enjoyable. We would recommend the priory lovely atmosphere very attentive staff

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Linda Bates . 2023-10-13

MORE AT Google

Found this little gem a couple of weeks ago. You can't beat upbeat, friendly and attentive staff, added to great food we'll definitely be going back for another(third already) visit soon.

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Rob Winters . 2023-10-10

MORE AT Google

The food and the service was ok, but there was a bit of back and forth due to confusion with what we ordered and the kitchen being out of there things we ordered. The staff was friendly, welcoming and it's a bonus that is a dog-friendly place.

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Christiane Wong . 2023-10-07

MORE AT Google

Fabulous food, with changes made with out problems allergies. Very friendly knowledgeable team about food and wine. Great evening, highly recommend

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Janice Chater . 2023-09-29

MORE AT Google

First visit and very impressed. Just what Christchurch has been missing for a while

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Robert Todd . 2023-09-27

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Only stopped off for a cup of tea and a slice of (Dorset apple) cake, sat outside all very nice.

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Chris Page . 2023-09-23

MORE AT Google

Wow , I am blown away by the owner and all the staff here. We came in off the street looking for a roast dinner. I was with 2 people I was supporting with learning difficulties. The staff were incredibly kind , generous, warm and friendly. The atmosphere was chilled with lovely soft music which the guys I was with really enjoyed. The food was incredible. Truly amazing experience we won’t forget. Thankyou for everything

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Alexia Wasley . 2023-09-03

MORE AT Google

My partner and I stopped by for a summers Sunday lunch and we came across The Priory, excellent mocktails followed by a beef and lamb roast dinner. The meat was cooked to perfection (which is VERY hard to come by), juicy, tender and full of flavour. Accompanied by roasties and veg, all to the taste buds requirements. Highly recommend the food here - shame I didn’t get any photos of the presentation which was outstanding!

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Peter Wheeler . 2023-09-03

MORE AT Google

Such a great atmosphere - I ate downstairs and the lamb was mouthwatering … thinking perhaps the best I ever had.

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Eileen Stow . 2023-09-03

MORE AT Google

The food here was delicious! I came here with my daughter & niece, we totally loved it. We tried the Sunday roast with beef which was so tender it melted in your mouth, an extensive selection of different vegetables which were cooked to perfection. I also loved that they were organically locally sourced. The best Sunday roast that I have ever tried. The staff were lovely & the restaurant had a great relaxed atmosphere.

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Diane Biles . 2023-09-03

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Yesterday my wife and I decided to have an early anniversary and after much to-ing and fro-ing ended up at The Priory Restaurant and had a thoroughly fabulous evening. We started with some great cocktails, to get us nicely relaxed. Then the food, I had Devon crab rarebit and Tracey had cheese and garlic soup which were both fantastic. For the main I had Moules with cider and bacon while Tracey had the most exquisitely cooked duck breast which just melted in your mouth. To drink I had a beautiful lager brewed by Guy Ritchie (yes him) and we also had an absolutely divine NZ sauvignon blanc. I finished with an outrageously indulgent peach melba. We had an amazing time. We will definitely be back. Thank you all for a lovely evening.

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Phil Oliver . 2023-09-03

MORE AT Google

Only visited for drinks, draught cider, coffee, and cocktails. Sat outside and took in the atmosphere on a lovely, sunny afternoon. The food menu looked interesting, and we will visit for lunch next time, tempted by the sea food. Staff were very friendly and helpful.

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Stephen Dow . 2023-08-31

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I had the absolute pleasure of dining at The Priory and I must say, it was a truly remarkable experience that exceeded all expectations. From the moment I stepped in, I was transported into a world of culinary delight and exceptional service. The ambiance at The Priory is enchanting, combining a perfect balance of elegance and warmth. The moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a cozy and inviting atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. The refined decor, along with soft lighting, created an intimate setting that is ideal for any occasion. Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the food. The menu at The Priory is a masterpiece, offering a diverse selection of dishes that cater to a wide range of palates. From the first bite to the last, every dish was a burst of flavors that showcased the chef's creativity and skill. The use of locally sourced ingredients was evident, as each dish boasted freshness and quality. The attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience was truly commendable. The presentation of the dishes was a work of art, appealing not only to the taste buds but also to the eyes. The waitstaff was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, guiding me through the menu with expert recommendations and ensuring that every need was met. One aspect that stood out was the thoughtfulness toward dietary preferences and restrictions. The Priory went above and beyond to offer a variety of dishes that were as delightful. And let's not forget the impeccable wine selection. The sommelier's expertise was evident as they effortlessly paired each course with the perfect wine, enhancing the overall dining experience. In a world where dining out is not just about the food, but about the entire journey, The Priory delivers an experience that is second to none. It's a place where every element comes together harmoniously to create a memorable and unforgettable evening. Whether it's a special celebration or a casual dinner, The Priory is undoubtedly a gem that deserves every bit of praise. I can't wait to return and savor the magic once again. If you're looking for a restaurant that combines exceptional cuisine, top-notch service, and an atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace, The Priory should be at the top of your list.

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Ben Harris . 2023-08-29

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Thank you to all the staff at The Priory Restaurant, we had a fabulous evening. Great menu with so much local produce and you even catered for the Vegetarian in our group with some really interesting options. The duck dish was superb and the trout was a real wow! Loved the summer themed cocktails, the organic Primitivo was really special and even the 0% Prosecco was delicious. The service was outstanding too, can’t fault you and we’ll be back soon. Thanks again!

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Charlotte Wells . 2023-08-28

MORE AT Google

Great restaurant for an evening out with friends.

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Dave Young . 2023-08-20

MORE AT Google

Breakfast, lunch or dinner, there is something for everyone at The Priory. First class service, delicious food of great quality and ample portions with a friendly, warm welcome and a good helping of personality. Locally sourced ingredients with a seasonal menu and if cocktails are your thing, they have you covered. People of Xchurch and beyond, go local and support this independent esfablishment, you won't be disappointed.

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Clare . 2023-08-13

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It is a nice small café / restaurant. I went for breakfast. The service was very good. The food was excellent. I went again and I asked for an omelette. It was exquisite. The scrambled eggs on toast with smoke salmon were very tasty.

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Nondas . 2023-08-12

MORE AT Google

Not enough words to describe our love for this restaurant. Fantastic food, quality & service.. Food sourced locally & always so delicious. Found it shortly after they opened & are have been regulars every Friday (my day off) since.. Have nearly tried the whole menu & can't ever fault it. Have introduced to many friends & family there now & they too,have been blown away. We so pleased we found them as never disappointed.

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Louise Ingram . 2023-08-09

MORE AT Google

I love it here, been a few times now and it never disappoints. The staff are so lovely they give the place a really friendly atmosphere and the food and cocktails are always first class. My partner and I just had Sunday roast and I have to say it’s the best we have had in the area. The downstairs bar area is my favourite it’s so beautifully decorated and feels very French. Spot on keep up the good work

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Dawn . 2023-08-06

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Gorgeous food! Fabulous flavours. Beautifully presented. Cosy ambience. Attentive, friendly staff.

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Jackie Smith . 2023-07-31

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Leisurely but intimate setting.

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Gordon Fong . 2023-07-30

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Food very good radically overpriced

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ernest burton . 2023-07-15

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We've had several visits now to this well-run restaurant, and hugely enjoyed all it has to offer. I love that all the ingredients are locally sourced (where possible) and there's a real sense of nothing has travelled too far to reach the (large!) plates of food served. I've also found the wines to be reasonably priced vs some other 'quality' restaurants in the area. The menu is also seasonal so that makes it even easier to return and find new dishes on the menu! Looking forward to returning soon.

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Maria Day . 2023-07-10

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We highly recommend this restaurant! Delicious food & wine. Fantastic staff & lovely owners. Our perfect spot for an after work treat!

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Libby Mawford . 2023-07-07

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The best Sunday roast ever! Staffs are lovely. Foods are always good. Highly recommend. 선데이 로스트 맛집! 콜리플라워 치즈 무조건 추가해야해요!

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Hwain Mun . 2023-07-02

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Six of us dined here as a family whilst visiting the area. The atmosphere is very calming and the decor is very chic. The food is so fresh and so lovely that all of the ingredients are locally sourced. The menu is very imaginative and beautifully presented. I had the chicken-liver parfait and the monkfish for Main course, both dishes were perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. Compliments to the chef. The waiting staff are very helpful and friendly and can’t do enough for you. I tried the key-lime pie martini from the cocktail menu which was so delicious and light. This restaurant is a real gem and everyone needs to try it.

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Lisa Buchanan . 2023-06-27

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Beautifully cooked food ..scallops & trout hmm very tasty would definitely recommend & return for another lovely meal

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Belinda Bullent . 2023-06-26

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It was like going to your grans upstairs house but it cost £300 but the steak was so bad I could of used it as a hockey puck definitely frozen

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George Shortland . 2023-06-23

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Wow, what a discovery! My wife and I had lunch here just yesterday and we were thrilled to have found what might just be our new favourite spot in Christchurch! The food was incredible - the quality of the produce was excellent and the portions were generous, but it was the staff that really made an impression; they could not do enough for us and made us feel very welcome (I'm quite fussy with my bacon and the chef/owner(?) came out to step me through his very impressive 8 hour slow cook!) We're already looking forward to our next visit and I would not hesitate to recommend this place to anyone who wants quality that doesn't cost the earth, and those who just want a coffee or a cocktail in a friendly, chilled environment.

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Kevin Curtis . 2023-06-22

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My daughter in law and I went here for lunch on Saturday. What a gem we have found in Christchurch. Amazing food, service and atmosphere. We enjoyed two lunches from the specials menu. I had tuna and my DIL had fillet of local stream trout. Both fish cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. We shared a bread bowl filled with bread from local bakery BigWigs from Tuckton. That was a treat in itself. We chatted to the owner and also the chef. I can't wait to return again.

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Sandra Cupit . 2023-06-18

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It was my second visit to The Priory and it was amazing! I have only been for the roast but I will definitely go back for the midweek menu soon. Everything is cooked to perfection and although the roasts are big I had to have a starter. The first time I had shrimp and this time the scallops - absolutely divine. You can tell the ingredients were fantastic quality and service is top standard. I would recommend this place to anyone that loves high quality food.

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Helen Kitson . 2023-06-18

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Highly recommend this little gem. Amazing smoked mackerel pate, sausage sandwich, wines and beers. Service was excellent and chef came out to have a chat about freshness of produce.

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Sue Bender . 2023-06-18

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4 of us had a great evening in The Priory off downstairs with excellent cocktails and beers before heading upstairs for an excellent meal. We kicked off with a couple of charcuterie platters before a delicious chateaubriand (and excellent accompanying sauce). The tandoori monkfish was another great selection! We’ll done guys and keep up the good work! And The Priory was dog friendly too!

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Rob Coulton . 2023-06-14

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We had an amazing meal at The Priory recently. The food is beautiful! The restaurant has a lovely atmosphere and the decor is fantastic. We had the chateaubriand, and it was the best steak that I've ever had. Can highly recommend!

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Julie Hanson . 2023-06-09

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Would not recommend. Poor service for so called ‘fine dining’. Will not be returning. Food was actually quite nice if you ignore all the ingredient substitutes and long waiting times (1hr 45mins) for our main dishes.

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Paul Delves . 2023-06-05

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Lovely quaint restaurant with beautiful surroundings of the Priory while sat outside on a sunny day. Stopped here for a coffee & light bites. Delicious and fresh with very friendly atmosphere. Very impressed and wish the restaurant all the very best. Wil definitely visit again if we return back to Christchurch on holiday.

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Wayne Kendall . 2023-06-03

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In the most stunning location, we revisited the restaurant after a wonderful lunch three days previously. Even though the service was very slow then, the view and setting and friends made up for it. However, unfortunately, when revisiting with friends who we had told about it, the service from one particular waiter was disdainful, rude and arrogant and once again we had to wait over one hour for the food to arrive. There was no apology or reason given. I gave feedback to the managers on duty and was brushed off with-I'll tell the boss. Once again no apology or even a coffee/drink offered. Whist walking in their garden we met another couple who had just dined there and they complained about the same thing-long waiting time and arrogant service. Such a shame as the location and setting is incomparable.

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lexie g . 2023-06-01

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This is an absolute little gem! The lunch my friend and I ordered exceeded all expectations. We had the smoked mackerel patê and the potted shrimp- honestly two of the best dishes I have tasted and I really love good quality food! The staff were really friendly and efficient. The head chef came to check after and explained that they even make their own butter. A tiny cake made by an ex-Harrods patisserie chef was the icing on the cake. Go! You won’t be disappointed!

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Katie Brent . 2023-06-01

MORE AT Google

Lovely new place in the heart of Christchurch. Fantastic wine list, cocktails and food.

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Plum Palombo . 2023-05-27

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Beautiful restaurant decor amazing. Staff very polite the cocktails are some of the best I have ever had and the food was outstanding. Would definitely recommend and will be returning.

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Lisa Thomas . 2023-05-20

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Amazing food and great service. Nice mid week treat

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Zak Deeble . 2023-05-12

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We just popped in for a brunch, From start to finish was 5/5 Staff are really nice and the food is amazing. Great coffee, booked in for dinner look forward to coming back thank you

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Finn Brayden . 2023-05-06

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Good cheese salad. Staff friendly but a bit inept - didn’t seem to know if they did ‘table service’ or what the ‘rarebit’ on the menu was! More training needed.

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Clari Searle . 2023-04-29

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Just been for an Easter dinner at this new restaurant… and was blown away. Fabulous decor & ambience, fantastic food. Would recommend the smoked mackerel croquette starter, & the chateaubriand was top-notch. Thanks for a great evening

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Neil Bastow . 2023-04-09

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Amazing addition to Christchurch, booked a table for 4 however only 2 of us managed to turn up, everyone was understandable and polite. The service was fantastic and the breakfast was delicious. Looking forward to try the evening menu .

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Be Basil . 2023-04-07

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Gorgeous restaurant, a warm and cosy vibe for a rainy, cold Saturday! Owner is absolutely lovely as well as all other staff! Food and drink is also lovely, will definitely be back. 😊

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Mia Wildeman . 2023-04-01

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A wonderful little find, a gorgeous chilled atmosphere and really lovely menu, brunch, lunch, dinner… coffee and cake £6, amazing cakes made in-house… Cocktails too… will be back! Lovely staff too! Thanks !

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Honest Reviews Only . 2023-04-01

MORE AT Google

New restaurant in Church Street, Christchurch. I was expecting good things when we went to The Priory for a little celebratory lunch, I had had the chefs food before at a different venue. I wasn’t disappointed the curry was full of flavour and the puddings were to die for. Love the decor by the way. Heading back soon to try their cocktail masterclass. If you visit try the Clouded Leopard gin created for the bar with donations going to The Born Free Foundation.

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Rae Pitman (The15milefoodie) . 2023-03-31

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Popped in for a cocktail and was not disappointed. The bar tender is clearly experienced and made 2 delicious cocktails- with all the trimmings and fancy presentations. Definitely recommend this place

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Beverley Pittaway . 2023-03-27

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Friendly welcomers, a beautiful old building. The cafe, toilets and shop are much improved.

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Christine . 2023-03-18

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Had lunch here with some friends, it was a case of good old fashioned professional service, just as it should be. We had a table near the window so had a good view of the river. First-rate food and a wide-ranging wine list. Some people may think the restaurant prices are a little on the high side, but it is a case of you get what you pay for, so in my opinion I thought the meal represented good value. The first time you visit here you may find getting to the car park a little confusing, so it might be beneficial when making a reservation to ask for directions.

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Holiday-Note . 2022-04-02

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Just the place when you want to treat yourself to something special. The food is marvellous but the attentive and totally professional service is what makes the difference. Whatever you choose will be good. The ingredients are of the first quality and as local as they can be. Long and comprehensive wine list with many offered by the glass. Many choose to have their coffee in the hotel's lounge or out in the beautiful gardens afterwards.

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Elcbee . 2022-03-01

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We arrived on a beautiful sunny day for lunch. There were guests assembling on the lawn with much hugging and greeting. We opted to go straight into the dining room. This is a lovely room with windows giving a view across the lawn and and to the river. We found all the staff very attentive. My husband ordered from the standard menu and I ordered from the vegetarian menu. I had the Wild Mushroom and Local Truffle Tagliatelle with Parmesan Crisp, Crispy Shallots which was good. But the dessert I had was delicious. We had coffee in the lounge as the noise level in the restaurant had become unbearable for me. Still it did mean thee were a lot of very happy diners raising their voices to be heard over their companions

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Diana D . 2021-09-09

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I recently reviewed the hotel but it doesn't appear under my 'Sagatourist' identity. In there I said I would review the restaurant. The breakfast was fully served - juice, fruits etc, hot plates - no buffet. The usual offerings were enhanced by kippers and kidneys. Day one I had the kippers - lovely and soft. Day 2 I had the full english - excellent. Dinner was also excellent, even without the extras on offer beyond the Table d'Hote. On the first night I had the superb cheese souffle starter followed by a very tasty rack of lamb. For dessert I had a beautifully soft pavlova. On the second night I started with the excellent cray fish, melon & mango salad starter followed by a lovely trout so soft that it fell away from its skin. The fruit souffle dessert was another superb example. The wines were very good but on the pricy side. It's a great restaurant in a very good setting.

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sagatourist . 2020-07-31

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You enter a different world even as you drive into the car park. Lovely gardens leading down to the river, wonderful old buildings, altered, improved upon, rebuilt over times to create a different feeling of time. Inside its quirky, with rooms off of rooms, off of other rooms, through low door openings past fabulous old doors that have history throughout their grain.Then suddenly you enter the modern but very tasteful dining room with huge glass expanses which allow views down to the river and back towards the fabulous old buildings. The ambiance, service, food and wine were all excellent.This is a must revisit.

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Graham C . 2020-02-09

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Great restaurant now that it is above ground and able to take advantage of the lovely gardens (maybe see the river but it was dark when we got there). The food was very nice and a nice touch with my husbands pudding as someone must have heard mention of his 70th birthday celebration as we were being served. Overall a very nice experience.

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Linda W . 2019-10-03

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Top class food and top class restaurant! Good wine list, excellent service. Cannot fault it! Really beautiful place

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cry70 . 2019-09-17

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What a beautiful restaurant. My parents had eaten here before and knew that the food was great, so we came for Mum's birthday. There is now a fabulous, airy and light extension that (apparently) seats quite a few more guests. The menu was varied and excellently prepared, the wine list was generous, with good value bottles (as well as the high-flyers) and most importantly, the service was tremendous... the lovely lady from Nimes was so charming that she even disarmed my father after he'd had a couple of whiskies (no mean feat). Someone among the waiting staff even realised that it was my mother's birthday, so she had a lit candle added to the mousse she ordered for dessert (she said it was delicious) and they sung 'happy birthday' for her - something she usually hates, but it really made her evening. Great experience - thank you.

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Dominic P . 2019-09-09

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We dined at the Priority for Sunday Lunch after it being recommended by friends. What a fabulous recommendation it was. The day was fine but quite breezy, which just allowed us to have pre-lunch drinks on the terrace enjoying the lovely garden and views down to the river. We loved what I gather is the new restaurant extension, quite a brave decision given that the rest of the surroundings are so traditional, but it really works. The restaurant is beautiful, the staff extremely efficient without being too stuffy. The Sunday Lunch was priced at £36 for 3 courses including coffee, which is at the higher end of what we normally pay for a Sunday Lunch, but taking into account the quality of the food and the most beautiful surroundings, it was certainly worth every penny. If I had one very minor criticism, I would say the main course could have been slightly more seasoned, but of course that could be just a personal preference. Lunch was followed by a stroll around the colourful and very well tended garden. It is so lovely to find that very individual places like this still exist, and nice to have the opportunity to dress up. We will certainly be returning again and would highly recommend to anyone wanting a very special experience.

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Claire L . 2019-08-12

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An hours travel through heavy traffic to dine here from where we live, but we do it once or twice a year because it is magical. The Priory a historic building is most interesting. The setting by the river, and views over to the Purbecks with the extremely well tended gardens are a wonderful experience. We had coffee on the terrace looking down to the river. Lunch was excellent, we chose three courses with a good selection of wine. All served in their new restaurant with views of the garden and glimpses of the river. Good and attentive service. The wash rooms were very clean with high end wash products. Then, as always, we walk down to the river shore and turn easterly through their beautiful garden and croquet green.Spend a short time in their Pod by the river where boaters wave at you and then continue around the gardens which are so beautiful. In spring the planted flowers are wonderful too.

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aestheticlady . 2019-08-07

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Fica numa típica vila do interior da Inglaterra ,dentro de um hotel do mesmo nome. É um estabelecimento antiquíssimo,e bem mantido ,eu diria,com história de mais de 300 anos ,impecável e very,very British,em seu mobiliário ,decoração e interior. Mas os jardins que o cercam ,são os mais bonitos ,que vi em hotel,nesse país conhecido pela ornamentação com plantas . Magníficos ,é uma palavra modesta ,além de enormes,dão de fundo para um rio,dando mais charme ainda ao local. Seu restaurante extremamente agradavel ,já com uma decoração mais moderna,oferece uma vista privilegiada de partes do jardins. O único ponto negativo,foi o péssimo atendimento de uma garçonete e o maître,afirmando que não poderia almoçar,pois ele estava completamente lotado. Mentira pura,fiquei mais de duas horas por lá,e tinham bastantes mesas vazias ,até as 16 horas ,quando me retirei.O serviço foi arrogante,lento revelando um péssimo profissionalismo,incompatível com a qualidade da comida e do lugar. Iniciei com uma terrine,de vitela ,com champignons Girolles,praticamente invisíveis a olho nú,e raspas milimétricas de picles de cogumelos. Esqueceram de colocar no cardápio,que tinham pedaços de isopor e maria mole,tal a esponjidade,de sua consistência e falta de sabor.Pavoroso,seria um elogio supremo. Já a lagosta inteira (liliputiana),grelhada com manteiga e ervas,estava saborosa e no ponto,e os legumes que a acompanharam , não saciaria a fome de um coelho recém-nascido, porém perfeitos. A torta de biscoitos ,regados por chocolate escuro,creme chantilly por cima,na doçura ideal,fechou com chave de ouro esse almoço quase perfeito. Não é caro,mas com a lagosta,ficou quase um assalto,pelo preço extra. O preço normal com uma entrada ,prato principal e sobremesa,custa £ 36,oferecendo um ótimo custo/benefício,além da vista ser de graça.

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Carlos S . 2019-07-28

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Pre booked a group of 11 for an evening meal and were immediately impressed with the setting and level of service. The meal was a triumph and all courses served were to an extremely high standard. Would definitely recommend this for a meal or celebration

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cigar-aficionado . 2019-02-03

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We went for lunch at the Priory just before Christmas. It was a beautiful sunny winter's day and the views from the restaurant across the river were superb. We always enjoy going to the Priory, usually on special occasions, and this time was no exception. The food was beautifully cooked and presented, and the service was to a very high standard. I look forward to our next visit.

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finchiewimborne . 2019-01-27

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This was a really high class Inn and restaurant. The food and service was excellent. The only slightly sour note was that many of the other diners were somewhat snooty. We were informed that they were part of a group travelling & dining together.

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David V . 2018-11-24

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An al fresco lunch here in the Summer is a joy. Perfectly positioned by the river the terrace is an ideal spot for lunch or afternoon tea. Service is friendly and efficient. Large hotel car park. The icing on the cake is the 4 acres of gardens which are a joy to ramble around after a pleasant meal. Highly recommended.

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X8085XIalanf . 2018-07-21

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Recommended by friends when they heard that we would be staying in Wareham and that we were visiting another restaurant in Christchurch. The gardens are stunning and a lovely place to relax with coffee / tea and look over to the river. We went for lunch on the last day of our stay and were not disappointed. A couple of bloody mary's to kick off while relaxing in the lounge and one of the best we've had in a long time lovely and spicy just as we like them. After about 15 minutes our drinks were collected and we were shown to our table which had the view to the gardens and just able to the river. Squid to start for me and Prawn & Crab cocktail for prtnr followed by Lobster for me and mussels for him . Delicious delicious . The service I couldn't fault it was professional and perfect . Thank you Priory it was a lovely end to our stay in Wareham

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Shepherdswell D . 2018-05-14

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The Priory is a delight. Drinks on the sunny terrace overlooking river plus a walk around the deceptively large and interesting gardens sets you up for a superb meal in the elevated glass walled restaurant. The menu is well put together and caters for many tastes and the food does not disappoint. The wine list is wide and varied to provide more than adequate choice to accompany the meal. The staff are the star of the show, being warm, friendly and attentive without intrusive. We had a 3 course meal followed by coffee in the lounge. A great evening which was reasonably priced. Thank you!

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baxfam123 . 2018-05-07

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We were fortunate to have been given a £100 voucher for The Priory. In broad terms, this buys a three-course dinner for two (drinks extra - pricing is 'ambitious'). Our visit was on a wet Saturday evening, so we were unable to take advantage of the views from the restaurant, which was full. This was a most enjoyable dining experience and can be recommended for a special occasion. The hotel-staff were very attentive - possibly 'over-attentive' for my own personal liking, but this did not detract from a highly-pleasurable experience overall.

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Richard S . 2017-10-15

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This hotel restaurant manages to get the balance right between posh and relaxed. The cooking is excellent, the menu imaginative. We stayed in the hotel 3 nights and ate here each evening without getting bored or disappointed.. Attentive and professional service.

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Judy S . 2017-09-16

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Замечательный вечер в кругу друзей был завершен ужином в

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Victoria A . 2017-09-10

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We had a bank holiday dinner for my 30th birthday that was was fantastic from start to finish. Sat overlooking the lawn and river with canapes and drinks, and moved into the lovely modern dining room to eat.

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Philip O . 2017-08-31

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We went to the Priory for my husbands birthday and there were 6 of us. It was a beautiful, warm evening and we had drinks on the terrace overlooking the Wareham river and had a wander around the gardens, all beautiful and relaxed.

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JulieW331 . 2017-08-29

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We ate here for dinner as well as 2 breakfasts.

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Summerasalifestyle . 2017-08-19

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Absolutamente confiable para el servicio excelente y la comida en un entorno paradisíaco. Ir temprano para mirar los jardines que bordean el río y tomar una copa en la terraza o disfrutar de un café o té por la tarde. Ya no uso el comedor muy entretenido 'bodega' pero Abbots la nueva extensión que es precioso ya que da al jardín y al río. La comida no es pretencioso o excesivamente tricksy - no un lugar o una espuma de aceite pero ingredientes de primera calidad tratado con respeto y profesionalidad. Cocina imaginativa y creativa en su mejor momento. Problemilla que sólo hay un vegetariano en oferta principal aunque, dada la edad y perfil de cliente puede entender por qué tal vez. Increíble de quesos con comentarios dado y porciones generosas. Postres maravillosos. Como el conductor en el partido no tenía una bebida, pero todo el mundo estaba contento con sus selecciones en la lista, incluyendo vinos por copa y el puerto; es raro encontrar el nivel del servicio ofrecido; es discreto, no servil, geniales y totalmente experto y correcto - un verdadero placer.

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Elcbee . 2017-07-28

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