The Ollerod, Beaminster, Dorset
The Ollerod in Beaminster has the loveliest ambience; whether or not that’s partly due to the gorgeous old building that dates back to the 14th century it’s hard to say, but they certainly seem to have everything just right here. The bar and the snug are very welcoming, especially when it’s chilly out and they’ve got the fire roaring. On the other hand, sit out on the terrace when the sun has got his hat on and you’ll feel equally relaxed; it’s all just so perfect.
The service is impeccable and the food is nothing short of divine, but then they have access to some excellent produce around here – fish fresh from the sea just a few miles away, veg and herbs from their very own garden, meat that was raised munching the grass in the local fields, and so on. Hence the menu changes regularly, depending on what’s about; ingredients are put to their best possible use in dishes with echoes of world flavours on both the Small Plates and the A La Carte menus.
From the Small Plates are tastebud tantalising delights like Tempura Porlock Bay oysters and seaweed mayonnaise, Keema Pua (spiced minced lamb, pickled red onion, coriander & a warm milk bun), and Prawn & garlic chive fritters. To give you an idea of what’s on the A La Carte Menu, there’s Roast haunch of venison with roasted squash, garden ale, mushrooms & smoked chocolate sauce, and Roast breast of Creedy carver duck with miso cured endive, wasabi mash & barbecue duck hearts.
Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free diets are all covered so there’s no reason why you won’t find something to tempt you – even those on the strictest diet can enjoy the amazing 15 Leaf Ollerod Salad – all grown in the garden.
Oh, and in case you’re wondering - where does the name come from? Simple; Ollerod is dialect for cowslip, proper Dorset.
Open: Thurs-Mon 12.00-3.00 pm for lunch
3.00 pm-6.00 pm for nibbles and cakes
6.00 pm-9.00 pm for dinner
T: 01308 862200 All information correct at the time of writing