After a major refurbishment the venue, known previously as The Winchester, looks truly wonderful with what must be the glitziest chandeliers in town! The venue is laid out with tables and chairs with a small stage up front. The bar is at the back, and upstairs are some gorgeous private dining rooms available for group hire.

It's table service and the waitress was attentive and friendly. We were after a simple lunch so went for their Eggs Benedict and vegetarian Avocado Smash. Both came from the kitchen in good time and looked great on the plate. The poached eggs come with Serrano ham on English muffins with Hollandaise sauce and the smashed fresh avocado is served with poached eggs and sourdough toast. Both dishes are priced at £6.50.

We had a couple of fruity soft drinks with lunch at £3.50 each, the total for lunch including a £2.50 service fee (you are warned on the menu) was £22.50.

Our lunch was delicious and the surroundings sumptuous. The dinner menu continues the theme with some very tempting options, so we'll certainly be going back for a larger meal. The stage is used for live music (check the website for times) and there some creative cocktails on offer too.

Bournemouth has seen a fair number of chain restaurants open in 2017, so a truly independent offering such as Banque & Bohem is a welcome surprise. Along with the new Poole Hill Brewery next door, Canvas above, Koh Thai opposite and even DYMK next door if you fancy something with a bit of extra sparkle, Poole Hill is one of the trendiest roads in Bournemouth to be seen in at the moment.

Tables can be booked on 01202 381769 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.