...@The Old Stables in Purbeck

On a day trip, our first choice closed early due to lack of staff so we found ourselves at the Old Stables. How lucky! Interesting mix of food. The quesadilla was a first for me. The tapas were good especially the prawns. Even the side salad was different to the usual lettuce and tomato. This will be our first choice next visit.

What a delightful experience it was, happenning across this smashing little place by pure chance on Weds 13th July at lunchtime. Escaping from the heat, the hustle and bustle of the seafront and the high street, the 3 of us ventured into the side street , and discovered the pretty Old Stables restaurant. We sat outside in the shade, as it was a very hot day, and ordered a vegan, a vegetarian, and a meat Quesadilla. A lovely relaxed happy lady served us, (the owner I think), and I was absolutely bowled over by the presentation, the superb quality of the ingredients, and the delicious recipes. I had certainly not expected a 5 star experience, just walking in off the street, and I absolutely had to chat to the chef before we left to thank him for his skill and care. We will be recommending, and returning!!

We ordered a salad for £8.50 and seafood platter for £14. The salad was only suitable as a small side salad whilst the seafood platter was still lacking in content considering the price.

Food wise: Lovely light fish stew and fish pie and an excellent pear "tart" though the absence of pastry meant it wasn't actually a tart. Someone did forget to add any sugar to the lime cheesecake though as it tasted very savoury. Still ate it with some lovely ice cream though.Service: Strange. I assume she was the owner, but given there wasn't that many customers, we had quite a negative vibe for ordering tap water and three set lunches for four people.We gave it the benefit of a doubt, but then when people came in looking for a light bite and left after they found only a set lunch is served, it bordered on ridiculous when she complained people should read the menu outside before coming in (note, several pieces of paper in the window). Missing a trick since the place was near empty and the starter options which made for good tapas options could have easily been charged for as such.Conclusion: Nice enough food, but maybe not the most welcoming feel unless you're in a mood to spend freely regardless of appetite.

Really welcoming atmosphere. Dog friendly. Amazing seafood. Would definitely recommend!

What a lovely find whilst on holiday last week in Swanage. Such a warm welcome from the staff & really tasty meals. Would highly recommend to anyone passing this fab little Bistro 😃

Very friendly, amazing food so glad we came across this little bistro a hidden gem

What a great little find this Bisto was Had mezze to start then Fish stew, slow cooked lamb and a quesadilla. All freshly made and the service was really friendly. Prices also very reasonable

Amazing fresh food and lovely hosts. The seafood platter was fabulous and a perfect starter for two to share. Dog friendly too. Thank you very much.

We had an excellent lunch at this place today.Needed to book but managed to get 12:00 at short notice.The seafood platter was super and good valuePrawns, smoked salmon, crab, pate and fresh salad.Friendly staff and simple but nice ambience.