...@the Old Stables

What a lovely little gem, we were lucky to get a booking, lovely staff, meal was fabulous, however I may upset a few people here but I have never been a fan of dogs in a restaurant, pickle is a lovely old dog but didn't like the fact that she sat by our table while we ate and another couple were feeding their dog at the table, salt and pepper squid the best ever👍

Popped in during the day on the off chance of getting a table for that evening. Chef was there and said he could fit us in! I cannot fault this place, food was wonderful, service was attentive but the star of this show was Pickle the dog who made the whole experience even more pleasant. We were made to feel very welcome, love the open kitchen concept and the chef is clearly a talented guy. There were plenty of menu options that appealed to us and the desserts were divine. We hadn't read any reviews before we popped in but instantly got a great vibe and we were right!! Was worth every penny and will absolutely be returning the next time!

Fabulous place to eat dinner in Swanage. Food delicious and lovely menu. Make sure you book as tables go really fast. Fantastic team and chef is really friendly and accommodating. We had tapas starters, Spanish chicken, rump steak and delightful desserts of lime cheesecake and pear and almond tart. We will definitely be back.

Booked a table for 6 when the in laws came to stay. Great menus choices with plenty of fish options. Some of the party opted for the hake which was a really good size, no one went away hungry and the homemade desserts of creme brule and almond tart were to die for. Great service, open kitchen, fairly priced, always my number 1 restaurant in Swanage.

Outstanding! How lucky we were to find this place today, more lucky there was a cancellation and we were able to book for dinner. Staff are fantastic, we were so welcomed. And the food was so good. 5 stars to the chefs and 5 stars to serving staff. We throughly enjoyed our meal, what a little gem hidden away. Cuddles to Pickles too who stayed with us and kept us company 🐾❤️ Great job guys, can't wait to come again 👏👏👏👏👏

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!!

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.

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.