Beaminster Brasserie

An Al Fresco First Test

The Beaminster Brasserie was launched last May with a glittering party and considerable Press coverage both local and national (see photos below). Since then the al fresco dining area has proved an absolute joy. While the BridgeHouse patio has always had tables with umbrellas, our decision to cover the area between the two conservatories has created a far more practical and almost unique dining space for this part of West Dorset. The less formal style of dining makes for a comfortable, relaxed and more family friendly environment.

Called a 'Gazova' it is a temporary structure with a single, canvass roof which creates both a light airy outside dining area as well as vital cover from the elements to protect from the British weather. The views of the walled garden remain the same giving the al fresco dining area a very Continental feel. Heatlamps and shawls also ensure that customers can remain comfortable through the vagaries of the British summer. Our former ‘Sun Room’ provides more permanent shelter if required.

A Taste of France

The Brasserie obviously takes it culinary cues from France, but with a British take on what a brasserie menu should contain. Changing seasonally, the menu currently offers  Lyme Bay crab & citrus linguini; Cornish moûles marinières; Ribeye steak with roast vine tomatoes, Dorset Down flat mushrooms and rustic fries as well as calves liver with local crispy bacon, balsamic onion gravy & creamed potatoes. Homemade breads, ice-creams and puds are de rigueur at the BridgeHouse. White chocolate & blueberry cheesecake, raspberry ganache tartlets and our world famous Dorset apple cake are pure temptation.

West Dorset is particularly blessed with fantastic free range and organic produce which have our chefs chomping at the bit.

Honest Value

All the dishes are individually priced as we feel our brasserie customers do not like to feel pressured into spending a fixed amount. Starters range from £5.25 to £6.95. £12 is the average price for a main grilled dish. Salads and pasta are slightly less while fish dishes start at £10.50. Desserts are no more than £5.50 and so it is very easy to eat for less than £18 for two courses. Prices are the same for both lunch and dinner.

Du Vin

No brasserie experience would be complete without excellent wines that match the food. Manager, Reg Pielesz has ‘extensively researched’ wines for the new restaurant. Our high altitude Malbec from Austria is already a surefire hit. With Grecanico from Sicily, and sensational Sylvoz Prosecco from Veneto, you could almost imagine you’re en Provence.

‘Home James’ Chauffeur ……at your service

How frustrating is it not being able to enjoy a glass or two of wine with your meal because you have to drive home at the end of the evening? It’s simply not worth risking lives and driving licences to even try. While a return taxi is one option, we have decided there is a ‘third way.’
Drive your own car to either of our restaurants, in your own time and at your own convenience….and we will drive you back home in the same car. We have a fully insured, experienced and vetted driver who simply places a small, fold-up scooter in the boot of your car so that he can get himself home from your address. It couldn’t be simpler!

So far, we have limited the service to an approximate six mile radius, taking in West Bay, Crewkerne, Symondsbury and Corscombe, for example. It currently operates Friday and Saturday nights, but will be extended if it continues to prove popular. There is a minimum £10 charge rising to £20. However, when you consider most return taxi fares are in the region of at least £25, it still works out cheaper.
As Gary, our chauffeur, works alone, we can only offer three or four return journeys home per night. The advice is book in advance to avoid disappointment!

The idea has been officially approved by Dorset Police. Anything to remove the temptation to drink and drive must be a winner. We just like to think the ‘Home James’ service will make your evening with us complete.

And Finally……

The brasserie now enables us to offer an even better venue for wedding receptions, parties and special celebrations. Whether a buffet or sit down meal is required, the BridgeHouse has the perfect space whatever you require.

Call reservations on 01308 862200 to book a table.
Opening Times: Daily – midday to 2.30; 6.30-9.30