REVIEW: The Oaks Highcliffe's New Spring Menu

Spring has arrived, and how better to welcome the new season arriving in full effect than trying some delicious seasonal food at The Oaks? Based in Highcliffe, this gorgeous spot is well loved for its fresh food and well curated menu - alongside it's welcoming al fresco dining area! We’ve heard such great things so couldn’t wait to head down and try out their new Spring menu.

Introduction to The Oaks Highcliffe and its Spring Menu

We knew we were going to be in with a treat as we're regulars at The Oaks' sister pub The Britannia in Parkstone, Poole and it never fails to wow us. With it being a Friday evening and the sun finally shining, we were even more excited to try out the spring menu at The Oaks.

We decided to make an evening of it and bring along my parents as well as our young children, and those with young kids will know what a relief it is to be able to dine in a relaxed outdoor setting.

We were off to a great start with the large car-park - hassle free parking with my elderly parents and young children was a huge tick!

Al Fresco Dining at The Oaks

After we were warmly greeted by the fantastic team (and the kids made a fuss of with some crayons and activity sheets), we were asked whether we preferred to be in the restaurant or outside and we jumped at the chance of dining Al Fresco and it felt like even more of a treat when we were shown to our 'beach hut' (a relief for my husband and I that our crazy kids weren't going to bother any of the other customers).

Feeling in holiday mode, we quickly ordered drinks while we studied the Spring Menu. The only downside is that it's honestly very difficult to choose as so man of the dishes were tempting. For the sake of the review, we all tried to order differently, but there were a few crossovers.

Our starters included; Fish Soup (I couldn't resist as it's always my go-to if on the menu - and it was divine!), Prawn Cocktail, Beetroot Terrine, Crab and Sweetcorn bites while the kids had Hummus and Crudites from the kids 2 course menu). And for Mains: Mum and I had the Fresh Crab with Salad and Fries (a generous portion and the crab was flavourful and tender, with a sweet and briny taste - perfection!. Both Dad's opted for the same too with both ordering the Hake and the children had Chicken Goujons and a Cheese Burger (such generous portions they beat them but they did very well and they tucked in well).

Our spread of delectable dishes were served with fresh seasonal salad and vegetables offering a symphony of fresh flavours. A delicious treat all-round!

We drew out the evening as best we could with the kids and they enjoyed the Giant Connect 4 and playing around on the Giant Deckchair.

In- between seeing to the kids, we all felt so relaxed surrounded by the beautiful garden and everyone happily enjoying the evening sunshine while sipping on a glass of fine wine and sampling the season's freshest ingredients and flavours. What a way to start the weekend!

Conclusion: Celebrating the Arrival of Spring in style

The garden at The Oaks is Al fresco dining at its finest – a chance to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the season while indulging in a culinary experience that is truly unparalleled.

From the moment you step through their doors, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you choose to dine al fresco on their picturesque terrace, or cozy up in the traditional indoor setting, you'll be treated to a menu that is both visually stunning and bursting with flavor.

Can't wait to give The Oaks a try? Take a look at their Spring Menu here - and visit here to make a reservation - https://oakshighcliffe.com/