REVIEW: The New Autumn Menu at The Britannia, Parkstone

With the leaves turning gold and a crispness in the air, there’s no better way to embrace the autumn season than with a hearty meal that captures the flavours and comfort of the season.

A Cosy Autumnal Feast at The Britannia, Parkstone

We were exceptionally lucky timing wise! We were treated to a sunny autumnal day with still enough warmth in the sun to enable us to comfortably sit outside and have a really long leisurely lunch soaking in the turning of the seasons!

Being one of my favourite local eateries, expectations are always high, but we were definitely not left disappointed. The Britannia Parkstone just keeps on delivering!
Their new Autumn menu blends seasonal ingredients with inventive twists on classic dishes (and even extended to the drinks menu!).

Ambiance & First Impressions

Since being taken over by Heartwood Inns, The Britannia has always been a warm and welcoming spot, but something about an autumn afternoon makes it even more inviting. 

The staff greeted us with friendly smiles and were more than happy to accommodate our request for eating outside (I'm sure any parents of young children reading this will resonate with the need to sit outside whenever possible when dining out!).

Fiery attention to detail

The staff were very excited to share their new autumn cocktail menu. I was intrigued by the fiery "Chilli Margarita". Margarita's aren't normally my go-to cocktail, but this sounded so interesting I just had to give it a try. It looked incredible but also a little frightening - the usual salty rim was replaced by chili flakes and an actual chili as a garnish, but it was actually delicious and the warm kick really complemented the tequila.

For those seeking something non-alcoholic, their autumnal mocktail—Apple and Cinnamon Spritz—would be a seasonally refreshing choice.

Starters: Setting the Scene for the Season

We began our meal with a selection of starters, each thoughtfully curated to highlight the best of autumn’s harvest. I opted for the French Onion soup which included a unique addition of mushrooms and the most delicious, generous serving of melted gruyere and croutons; genuinely the most superb french onion soup I've ever tasted. My Mother-in-law opted for the cheese souffle "lovely flavour cheese, creamy and soft texture and generous portion for a starter (fortunately, as the grandchildren took a liking to it too!). My Father-in-Law had the Morteau sausage salad with poached free range egg, and dijon mustard dressing which "looked amazing and matched with stunning flavour, the subtle spicy sausage was perfectly balanced with mixed leaves and vegetables in a tasty dressing". The children, ever adventurous, enjoyed the Crispy Halloumi Bites—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Between courses, they really enjoyed exploring the garden and playing giant Connect 4. It really is such a gem for all ages.

Mains: A Celebration of Comfort and Flavor

For the mains, the menu offered something for everyone, from comforting classics to modern seasonal dishes. I chose the ChalkStream Trout filet with prawn butter & white wine sauce, prawn potatoes (the first time I've experienced this combination and definitely hope it's not the last; the combination of flavours and textures were exquisite) served on a bed of wilted kale.

My Father-in-Law had the St Austell Beef and Ale pie, mash, baby onion and mushroom gravy, green beans and a Tribute Ale taster "beautifully presented with a rich sauce served separately allowing the option to suit your own palate. It was accompanied with a wonderfully creamy mash potato and succulent green beans. The portions were perfectly judged, proving satisfying and leaving enough appetite to relish a deliciously mouth watering dessert selection.

Mum-in-law had the Loomswood Farm Duck Breast, madeira sauce, Dauphinoise, wild mushrooms and green beans "beautifully cooked and presented, very tasty and tender with a good selection of vegetables and potato".

The children had a Autumn classic - sausage and mash, but my only bit of feedback is that the sausages were too spicy for them. I had a bite and I understood why they were unable to finish it but they had plenty to eat so this wasn't a huge disappointment.

Desserts: Sweet Seasonal Treats

The dessert menu is exceptional - so much so, we went from wanting to just go for coffees to all ordering a pudding as soon as we read the menu.

I had the pistachio souffle with chocolate ice cream. Oh my goodness, what a combination of flavours and loved the contrast of the heat of the warm gooey souffle and against the cold chocolate ice cream.

My Mother-in-law had the pièce de résistance - the 'Autumn Still Life - chestnut & coffee parfait, meringue, frosted pecan, vanilla & cocoa tuile, chocolate mousse and crumb "such a stunning idea with such attention to details and tasted even better than it looked".

The children's choice was absolutely perfect for them; a colourful selection of fresh fruits, mini marshmallows and melted chocolate dipping sauce. My 4 year old got deliciously covered in chocolate and although we wiped that off her face, her smile remained long after!

Final Thoughts

The new Autumn menu at The Britannia Parkstone is a triumph, offering both comfort and creativity in equal measure. It’s clear that the kitchen staff has put a lot of thought into crafting dishes that highlight the best of the season while still offering something for every palate, including family-friendly options.

The staff are always so helpful and friendly, we were made to feel very welcome and to stay as long as we liked soaking up the autumn sun (and the outdoor heaters mean you can enjoy the beautiful garden even when the weather begins to turn).

We’ll certainly be back to enjoy it again before the season is over! Great staff, Great Location and Outstanding Fare!