Dicky's Bar & Brasserie

Dicky’s Bar & Brasserie is a modern neighbourhood brasserie on Southbourne Grove, the leafy high street at the heart of this clifftop suburb. Established in 2019 in a converted former telephone exchange, it pairs relaxed bar drinking with proper sit-down dining, and has built a loyal local following for its warm welcome and produce-led cooking. The kitchen leans European, but with a distinctive Dutch twist that sets it apart from the usual coastal bistro.

The food

The menu changes with the seasons and is built around local suppliers, so exactly what’s on the board shifts through the year. What stays constant is the Dutch influence woven through it, which is really what sets Dicky’s apart from the average seaside restaurant. Expect moreish bar snacks such as bitterballen — the crisp-crumbed croquettes filled with a creamy ragù and served with mustard mayo — and frikandel sausage bites with curry sauce. Elsewhere the cooking is comfortingly European: moules frites arrive with a choice of the classic garlic and white wine or a curried sauce, and chicken schnitzel is a regular favourite. There’s a separate gluten-free menu, and the made-to-order approach means the team can usually talk you through options — worth checking the current menu, or asking when you book, if you have specific dietary needs.

The setting

Inside, Dicky’s is smart but unstuffy — a cosy, well-dressed room with a sophisticated yet relaxed feel, and a proper bar for cocktails, wine and beer whether you’re settling in for dinner or just dropping by for a drink. When the weather plays along there’s an outdoor terrace for al fresco eating and people-watching along the Grove. The mood suits date nights, catch-ups with friends and unhurried lunches equally well. It’s worth knowing the restaurant admits children aged 10 and over only, and the dress code is smart casual, so it leans a little more grown-up than family-focused.

Where it is

You’ll find Dicky’s at 54/56 Southbourne Grove (BH6 3RB), among the independent bakeries, delis and coffee shops that give Southbourne its village feel. The clifftop and the long, sandy beach below are only a short walk away, making it an easy stop after a blustery seafront stroll. There’s no dedicated car park, but free on-street parking is usually available along the Grove and the surrounding residential streets, so allow a little extra time at busy periods.

Good to know

Booking is recommended, especially at weekends. You can reserve online or by phone for smaller parties, and the team usually keeps a few tables back for walk-ins — so it’s worth popping in even if the online system shows no availability. Opening hours and the menu can change seasonally, so check the restaurant’s website for the latest before you visit.

For more places to eat around the bay, browse the rest of our food & drink guide and plan a day that pairs lunch at Dicky’s with a walk along the Southbourne clifftop.

Dicky's Bar & Brasserie good to know

What food does Dicky's Bar & Brasserie serve?

Dicky's is a modern European brasserie with a Dutch twist. Expect small plates such as bitterballen and frikandel sausage bites, alongside moules frites, chicken schnitzel and a seasonal, produce-led menu, plus cocktails, wine and beer from the bar. Check the current menu on the restaurant's website.

Where is Dicky's Bar & Brasserie?

You'll find Dicky's at 54-56 Southbourne Grove in Southbourne, one of Bournemouth's leafier clifftop suburbs, a short walk from the overcliff and beach. It sits among the independent shops and cafés along the Grove, and is plotted on our interactive map of Bournemouth, Dorset.

Is Dicky's good for families or groups?

Dicky's suits couples and groups of friends well, with a sociable bar and a relaxed, stylish dining room. Note that the restaurant admits children aged 10 and over only, so it is geared more towards older families and adult occasions than young children.

Does Dicky's cater for dietary requirements?

Dicky's keeps a separate gluten-free menu, and the seasonal, made-to-order kitchen can often adapt dishes. If you have specific needs, including vegan or allergy requirements, it's best to check the current menu or mention them when you book so the team can advise.

Do you need to book a table at Dicky's?

Booking is recommended, especially at weekends. You can reserve online or by phone for smaller parties, and the team usually holds a few tables back for walk-ins — so it's worth popping in even if the online system shows no space. Check the website for current details.

Is there parking near Dicky's Bar & Brasserie?

There's no dedicated car park, but free on-street parking is usually available along Southbourne Grove and the surrounding residential streets. As with any high-street location it can get busy at peak times, so allow a little extra time to find a space.