Every group chat has the same argument. One wants pizza, one wants noodles, one is vegan and one just wants a pint. In most towns, that’s a 20 minute debate and a split-up evening. In Dorchester, it’s a short walk across one square.
Here’s our honest guide to where to eat in Dorchester, sorted by the kind of day you’re having.
For brunch and a coffee
- Vivo Lounge on Weymouth Avenue is the relaxed, sofa-filled spot for a long brunch that drifts into lunch.
- Costa Coffee on Copper Street for your reliable morning flat white before the shops open.
- Vibes Cafe is our vegan and vegetarian café, and the meat eaters in your life will be pleasantly surprised.
- Seventh Seal on Pope Street is renowned for the best coffee in town.
For a family meal that keeps everyone happy
- Nando’s in Dray Horse Yard, for the spice-level dares and endless refills.
- Pizza Express on Weymouth Avenue, a safe bet for fussy eaters and grown-ups alike.
- Zizzi on Eldridge Street, for pizza, pasta and a glass of something for the adults.
- Wagamama on Weymouth Avenue, for big bowls of ramen and katsu curry.
- O’Pasta on Pope Street, for fresh pasta done simply.
For date night
- Côte Brasserie in the heart of the Square brings French brasserie classics and a buzzy, grown-up atmosphere.
- Meram Kitchen specialises in Turkish cuisine, and honestly, it’s to die for. Order a few dishes and share everything.
- Santos & Co in Dray Horse Yard is the spot for a cocktail before dinner, or one more drink when neither of you is ready to call it a night.
For beer lovers (this is a brewery, after all)
Beer has been brewed on this spot since the 1800s, and the tradition is very much alive.
- Brewhouse & Kitchen on Weymouth Avenue is a pub with its own microbrewery on site. Ask what’s freshly brewed.
- Copper Street Brewery is family run, with its own beers poured right where they’re made.
- Santos & Co in Dray Horse Yard for cocktails and drinks with friends.
- XO Bar, just below Meram Kitchen, is where the night really gets going. Cocktails, music and open late, so it’s the place to head when nobody’s ready to go home yet.
For something sweet
Creams Café in Dray Horse Yard is where good intentions go to melt. Sundaes, waffles, cookie dough and the kind of puddings that need sharing (but rarely get shared).
For the whole family, including the dog
MUTT Everything Dog is a café made for dogs and their humans. And if you’ve got little ones, Nikki’s Little Play Café pairs a decent coffee with soft play.
Quick questions
Are there vegan restaurants in Dorchester? Yes. Vibes Cafe at Brewery Square is fully vegan and vegetarian, and plenty of our restaurants have plant-based options too.
Where can I eat near Dorchester South station? Brewery Square is right next to the station, with over a dozen restaurants, bars and cafés.
Do I need to book? For Friday and Saturday evenings, booking ahead is a good idea. Check each venue’s page for opening times.
