The Cruel Sea
5 Bank Chambers, Penn Hill Ave, Poole Dorset BH14 9NB
I had been meaning to try this place since I saw it featured on TV. Very unassuming from the outside, in fact it could be easily missed! Step inside for a fantastically warm welcome, and soak up the ambience.....almost a vintage industrial theme(?) with bare brickwork, lavish wooden bar and various homage to the sea on the walls. (I later found out the huge painting on their wall was painted by an artist featured in Tate Modern).
Oysters were incredible, and the food that followed just as delicious! Expect the menu to be heavy on the seafood....it's owned by a fisherman and they seem to take provenance very seriously - even listing the origin of each item on their menu! There was also a good selection for the non fish lover among us!
Would most definitely recommend this place.....don't go expecting fine dining - this place served really fresh food, really expertly cooked with a good selection of wines and a relaxed, earthy atmosphere. An absolute treasure!