Thirteen

Thirteen is located a short detour from Poole Quay and Sandbanks on Dorset’s famed coastline. It’s not the street number that lends the intimate restaurant its name, however, but the number of plates on its artistic tasting menu.

There’s space for 20 diners, plus two in pole position at the heart of the open kitchen, but while the Parkstone restaurant may be small in scale, it’s big in reputation. Featuring in the Michelin Guide and with a host of hard-earned accolades under its belt, Thirteen may need a bigger belt soon.

Dishes lean towards modern British, and the steady stream of 13 plates are all masterfully executed, balanced and artfully plated. Discerning diners find food for thought in dishes like India-meets-Jamaica goat samosa and south coast cod with langoustine bisque and cured fennel.

It’s a family affair, too. Alex Naik is head chef, his sister, Frances, heads up front of house, and parents, Hem and Elisabeth, bring the wine knowledge. And the final ingredient? A passion for produce – watchwords here are seasonality, sustainability, homegrown, locally sourced, fished and foraged.

Trencherman’s tip

Prefer to have half the number of plates? There’s a 6½ option on weekdays and lunchtimes. Thirteen also conjures up a memorable roast on selected Sundays.