This handsome 18th century building used to be a pub. Exposed beams and brickwork and chunky wooden tables still give the place a homely feel, but the focus now is firmly on food and wine. There's a cosy first floor bar for those all important pre-dinner drinks, then its straight down to the main dining area (or on a sunny day, one of the al fresco huts in the garden) to sample ex-Chez Bruce chef Chris Bailey's modern British menu.
Where is The Black Rat located?
The Black Rat Restaurant is located on Chesil street at the bottom of the town centre, about an 8-10 minute walk from King Alfred’s statue.
What cuisine is on offer at The Black Rat?
While the produce might be local, with some even coming from the restaurant's own allotment, the cooking style ranges much further afield. A gaspacho essence comes with pan Catalan (grilled bread with garlic and tomato) and Cumbrian ham and a Cornish rump of lamb is given a Middle Eastern makeover with couscous, smoked aubergine and preserved lemon.
What makes a meal at The Black Rat unique?
In two years' time, the team has won one of the most coveted accolades in catering, a Michelin Star, and the restaurant remains Hampshire's only representative of the accolade currently. The Black Rat was proud last year to reveal it's 2nd place in OpenTable's Top 50 Restaurant Fit for Foodies 2018 in the UK.
