The Rope & Anchor is a beautiful pub and restaurant which is tucked away in the Old Town area of Poole.
Although the establishment is well known locally for an excellent Sunday roast, I visited with a friend on a Friday night and received an outstanding meal and service.
We received a friendly welcome when we arrived and chose to sit on a small table near the front door. Looking around, the pub has a modern and nautical feel which is apt considering it’s located close to the Quay. I especially loved the large hemp rope light which you’ll see at the entrance.
After reading the menu, we had a glass of crisp white wine and started with a bread and olives board to share which had the most delicious toasted sourdough with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip.
For our main course, my friend had an enjoyable Ale battered Fish and Chips while I had the Cheeseburger. I must say though, it wasn’t just any cheeseburger as this one had 2 homemade beef patties, American cheese, bacon, salad and fries. It was very tasty and big enough that I had to eat it with a knife and fork!
The current dinner menu also offers traditional meals like Sausage and Mash, Steak and Ale Pie, Gammon Steak, Rump Steak, plus more unique meals like Crab and Mascarpone Ravioli. There are also vegetarian options which included Pan Fried Gnocchi and a Vegan Haggis Burger plus specials on the night like a Pork Tomahawk with chilli and mango salsa and Mediterranean cous cous and a Cod Fillet with braised fennel, parsnip puree and crushed potatoes.
Whilst everything was really scrumptious, my favourite was a pudding from the specials board which was an incredible Orange and Ginger Crème Brulee with candied ginger and the best homemade coconut shortbread ever! I kept putting a little of the crème brulee on the shortbread and nibbling each bit not wanting it to end.
The pub has a very relaxed atmosphere and we spent a delightful couple of hours relaxing and chatting. Our food was of an outstanding quality and the staff we met were very attentive and friendly. I’ll look forward to returning on a summers day to sit out the front with a glass of wine or chill in the courtyard garden at the rear.
For more information and to view their menu, please visit The Rope and Anchor.
‘Discover Food in Poole’ is a dedicated month-long campaign celebrating the town’s vibrant and diverse dining scene. Visitors and locals alike can look forward to exclusive dining deals, exciting competitions, and the opportunity to explore an array of gastronomic experiences across Poole.
During April, Poole BID are giving you the chance to win some amazing prizes which include an afternoon tea for two to your door from Premier Bites, a meal for two at The Guildhall Tavern, and a bread making class and meal thanks to WhitePepper Chef Academy. To enter, please head over to the Poole BID on Facebook or Poole BID on Instagram.
For more information on 'Discover Food in Poole', please visit the Poole BID website.
Dorsetmums was invited to the Rope & Anchor for the purpose of a review however all words are my own.
