Poole is famous for its large harbour, busy quay and quaint cobbled old town. The quay thrives with festivals and events throughout the year and is bursting with restaurants and pubs for everyone to enjoy.
It is also known for some of the world’s finest seafood.
There’s something special about going out for a seafood dinner and enjoying your meal with the ocean close by can add to the occasion.
We have found some of the best seafood restaurants in Poole, guaranteed to make any occasion special and satisfy your seafood cravings.
From fish and chips to lobster thermidor, this list will guide you to great places to devour some excellent food.
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Guildhall Tavern
Guildhall Tavern stands as a jewel in the heart of Old Town, Poole. It’s just 50 yards from the original Guildhall building, which was completed in 1761.
This award-winning seafood restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Diners can enjoy the likes of fresh oysters, scallops and Poole Bay crab, a great choice for any sea food lover.
The ambience is elegant yet relaxed, perfect for various occasions.
Private events are also held here, such as weddings and christenings.
Guests can enjoy the chic Lounge Bar for cocktails, post-work drinks, or all-day meet-ups. The blend of old charm and modern chic makes it a unique place.
📍 15 Market Street, Poole, BH15 1NB
Poole Arms
Poole Arms is the oldest pub on Poole Quay, dating back to 1635. Its distinctive green-tiled façade is a landmark on the quayside.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy, single-room interior with pews, a bar, and wood-panelled walls adorned with historic Poole photographs.
The pub is renowned for its fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, mussels, crab salad, prawns, and fish pie.
Each dish is prepared using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavour.
In addition to its food, Poole Arms offers an extensive drinks menu featuring fine wines, gins, vodkas, rums, beer, and more.
The pub provides bench seating outside, perfect for watching the lively activities on the quay.
Note: Due to licensing laws, under 18s are not permitted inside Poole Arms.
📍 19 The Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ
Rockfish Poole Seafood Restaurant
Rockfish Poole is an exciting destination for seafood lovers. Located on Poole Quay, the restaurant is set in a charming old pottery building. Diners can enjoy views of the Sunseeker yard and ferry port.
With high, vaulted ceilings and an open kitchen, the atmosphere is lively.
The menu features fresh, sustainably caught seafood. Guests can choose to have their fish grilled or fried, served with unlimited chips or salad.
The restaurant also offers a private dining room called The Chart Room, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
📍 9 The Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ
Rick Stein, Sandbanks
Rick Stein, Sandbanks offers exquisite seafood dishes with incredible views of Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island.
Guests can enjoy a range of seafood classics like whole Dover sole and lobster thermidor.
The bar dining area is perfect for casual meals, while the sea view terrace provides an idyllic setting for cocktails and dining during warmer months.
The restaurant also offers a weekday set menu and an inviting breakfast selection.
📍 10-14 Banks Rd, Sandbanks, Poole BH13 7QB
St Tropez Lounge
St Tropez Lounge offers an award-winning French seafood dining experience.
Owned by Severine and Frederic Seweryn, the restaurant features a modern, open-plan layout with stunning views over Poole Harbour.
The menu includes a full French seafood a-la-carte selection, a breakfast menu, cocktails and fine wines.
📍 1 High St, Poole BH15 1AB
Shell Bay Seafood Restaurant
Shell Bay Seafood Restaurant is a hidden gem near Studland, offering an incredible coastal dining experience.
Just a short ferry ride over to Studland, Shell Bay offers stunning views of Brownsea Island and Sandbanks.
Visitors can enjoy their meal outdoors with the scenic backdrop of Poole Harbour. Even in cooler weather, clear-canopied areas ensure year-round enjoyment.
The restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced seafood, with a menu adapting to the best catch of the day.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially in peak seasons.
📍 Ferry Rd, Studland, Swanage BH19 3BA
Lakeside Fish And Chips
Lakeside Fish and Chips in Poole is a must-visit for fresh, crispy fish and golden chips. Located at Lifeboat Quay, this charming spot has been serving mouth-watering meals since 1984.
Brothers Wayne and Jason Leese run the restaurant. They prepare top-notch fish and chips using local and seasonal produce.
The cod comes from the North-East Arctic, and the haddock is line-caught.
Besides fish and chips, the menu includes burgers, pies, and daily specials. Whether dining in the 100-seater restaurant or opting for takeaway, quality is guaranteed.
📍 Lifeboat Quay, Poole, BH15 1LS
