Romanzo

Tucked away in the charming heart of Westbourne, Romanzo is the kind of place that quietly captures your attention and then keeps you coming back for more. Located at 87 Poole Rd, Bournemouth, this Greek and Mediterranean-inspired restaurant blends rustic charm with a cozy, welcoming vibe, perfect for long lunches, intimate dinners, or even a solo escape with a glass of wine and a mezze platter.

Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel like you’ve been transported to a family-run taverna on the Aegean coast. The decor leans toward the traditional - think warm wood, ambient lighting, and a layout that makes conversation easy, even on busy nights. It’s accessible too, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and seating options, which is always appreciated.

Now, let’s talk about what really matters: the food. Romanzo doesn’t try to be flashy, and that’s part of the magic. Instead, it focuses on honest, flavourful Mediterranean cooking made with care. Their Mini Mezze Platter is a brilliant way to start-it’s a generous spread of Tzatziki, Taramasalata, Greek salad, and warm bread that hits every note from creamy to tangy to herby. Pair that with a Mythos Greek Beer or a crisp glass of wine, and you're already halfway to holiday mode.

The Grilled Sardines are another highlight-fresh, smoky, and served with a side of simply dressed salad and lemon. For something heartier, the Kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb dish, falls apart with just a touch of the fork, soaking up every bit of the rich, herbed gravy. And let’s not forget the Moussaka, a staple here, baked to a golden top with tender layers of aubergine, spiced mince, and creamy béchamel.

Vegetarian options aren’t an afterthought, either. From the Caprese Salad to rice-stuffed vine leaves and falafel-style small plates, there's something for every palate. Looking for something light but satisfying? The Fritto Misto-a mix of lightly battered seafood-is delicate yet deeply flavourful, ideal for those who want to keep it on the fresher side.

And yes, they do coffee seriously. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich Turkish coffee with a hint of cardamom or just a solid cappuccino, Romanzo serves it up strong. Don’t skip the desserts either-especially the Baklava or the Kataifi, with its golden shredded pastry soaked in honey syrup and layered with nuts. The Lemon Curd Cheesecake with Ice Cream is another modern twist that balances sweet and citrus in every bite.

While Romanzo doesn’t offer delivery, their takeaway service means you can enjoy your Greek favourites at home. But really, the full experience is best had in-house. The setting, the music, the clink of glasses, and the laughter of other diners add a kind of warmth that’s hard to replicate in a takeaway bag.

They also serve beer, wine, spirits, and a selection of cocktails, so if you’re stopping by for drinks and small plates, that works beautifully too. The Meze for 2 makes a perfect sharing board for couples or friends looking to graze through the evening. And the atmosphere? Relaxed but buzzing, perfect for both dinner dates and catching up with friends.

Romanzo strikes a delicate balance-it feels both like a local favourite and a hidden gem. It's not about the hype. It's about honest hospitality, full plates, and flavours that speak for themselves. Whether you’re craving Mediterranean comfort food, a laid-back place to sip on Champagne or Beer Keo, or just need a solid lunch spot in Westbourne, this place delivers exactly what it promises.