Poachers in Wareham

Hectic in Swanage, hungry and in need of some calm space, headed to Wareham to try out the newly opened Poachers Restaurant.   Booked and expected, we were greeted very welcomingly by Norbert our waiter for the evening.   Tasteful decor and interesting menu set the standard for our dining experience.

Filetto Carpaccio tempted my palette for starters with crunchy rocket and shaved Parmesan.   Clive tried frogs legs, having forgotten the delicate flavour wouldn't stir his taste buds into action.   Filet Mignon wrapped in pancetta and served with scallops , brought to the table after a reasonable interlude , along with a bottle of smooth house red wine put a smile back on Clives face.  Duck a l'Aphrodite won the night for me.  Delicately pink and tender duck breast accompanied by honey glazed courgettes, crunchy butternut squash and young vegetables had already sold me on this dish, but the master stroke was the chocolate ganache...mmmmmm.    No more talking for a while, just little grunts of satisfaction breaking the silence.

 Whilst awaiting our desserts we were treated to a culinary spectacle at the adjacent table.   Norbert producing flambe Beef Stroganoff,  the smell was tantalising and the end result well appreciated by the four diners.  

Desert arrived - more chocolate for me, white chocolate ganache with little shortbreads, delicious fresh raspberries and  raspberry coulis, the kind of pud that even when you know you've finished, your fingers still seem to find a little bit more in the dish.   Cheese board for Clive, usually predictable, but not this one.   A little work of art on a plate, at least five different cheeses, cut into slivers just the right size to pop on a biscuit and devour. That was good, but the addition of raspberries, dates, pistachios, white raisins, nibbly bits of celery and generous portion of biscuits made this , the best selection locally.

We spent three hours without once feeling either rushed or impatient and in money just under £100 for three courses, decent house wine and sparkling water.  Good night was had and will definitely be returning.

Wareham is about 10 miles from Swanage, 20 minutes by car or taxi, about an hour on the bus.  We were able to take advantage of family; our favourite taxi driver, Dave Bull (07968 142134) would have charged £22 one-way.  Poachers Restaurant is not yet web-savvy, but you can make a booking on 01929 551589.