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Revolution is not a word readily associated with Southampton, a city more famous for its maritime tradition and the mercurial talents of its football hero, Matthew Le Tissier. But over the past decade a quiet revolution has taken place in Southampton's leisure industry, with the emergence of giant complexes such as WestQuay, Ocean Village, Leisure World, the Marlands Centre and the Bargate Shopping Centre. In their wake they have caused an explosion of new bars, pubs and restaurants, as major chains have moved in to feed and water the hundreds of thousands of visitors flocking to the new centres.

Dining in Diversity

At the heart of Southampton's leisure complexes are restaurants that offer an astonishing variety of choice. In Ocean Village alone, along with a prime waterfront view, you have the choice of Spanish tapas at Los Marinos, French cuisine at Café Sur la Mer and tex-mex at Mustang Sally's, not forgetting traditional English fish and chips at Henry Ramsden's.

This type of diversification can be found across the city. You can take Italian at Piccolo Mondo in Windsor Terrace, sample Mediterranean flavours at the Olive Tree in Oxford Street or grab a pizza at the nearby Pizza Express. Alternatively, you can choose Chinese at Ocean Dragon on Above Bar Street or experience Indian food at restaurants throughout the city, such as Spice of India on Commercial Street.

Pick a Theme

Themed restaurants have taken off in recent years. The Chicago Rock Café on Vincents Walk offers classic hits to enjoy with your steak or burger. Or there is the American themed TGI Friday's on Harbour Parade or the yachting themed Around The World at Town Quay.

If you are just after a coffee and a sandwich, try Café Soleil on the High Street or Del Marco on Above Bar Street. Or if it's a chip butty and a tin of mushy peas you crave, take a walk up Bedford Place, which is crammed with fast food outlets.

Pre-club Pint

The biggest development in the city's bar and pub scene in recent years has been the rise of the pre-club bar. As Southampton's club scene has grown, with clubs such as Ikon & Diva at Leisure World and The Rhino Club in Waterloo Terrace attracting top name DJs, stylish pre-club bars have emerged, offering smart, modern surroundings and a soundtrack of house, garage and funk. These include The Lizard Lounge in Bedford Place and Bar Risa (with comedy club Jongleurs upstairs) and Bar Med on the High Street. Most of these bars have strict dress codes; smart casual dress is compulsory, jeans and trainers are forbidden.

The Chain Gang

Many major chains have opened up pubs in the city in the past few years. Yates's now have a Wine Lodge on Above Bar Street and the Firkin brewery have a Ferryman and Firkin on the High Street, next door to one of the Walkabout chains' Australian themed pubs. In addition, the Just So brewery has opened a Tavern in the Town on Above Bar Street and from the JD Wetherspoons chain there is the Giddy Bridge on London Road.

Southampton's gay scene has also expanded in recent years. Popular gay pubs include Smugglers on Bernard Street, The Victoria Inn in St Mary's and Voltz on Above Bar Street. Arguably the best of all is The Edge on Compton Walk.

Student Spots

Despite this explosion of new bars, as a university and college town Southampton still has plenty of long established student institutions. These include Bedfords and The Ostrich in Bedford Place, The Mitre in Portswood and The Hobbit in Bevois Valley.

If you enjoy watching a band as you drink, several pubs in the city offer live entertainment. The best of these are The Brook and Talking Heads on Portswood Road, which have named acts and acoustic/Irish music respectively, and The Joiners Arms in St Mary's Street, which features up and coming bands.

Finally, it is worth remembering that many of Southampton's best pubs can be found in the countryside villages a few miles out of the city centre. For some pleasant scenery with your beer, try the Bishopstoke River Inn just outside Eastleigh, the Old George in Fairoak or the famous Jolly Sailor on the River Hamble.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Around The World


Beefeater with a sailing theme
Town Quay
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 23 2505
It won't take you eighty days to find this restaurant, as it is prominently placed on Southampton's Town Quay. As part of the Beefeater chain of family-oriented eateries its stated aim is to serve great British food in a contemporary fashion. The restaurant is primarily a steakhouse but also serves a full range of other dishes, including a good selection of vegetarian meals. Styled in the theme of the famous round the world yacht race, which starts from Southampton, its waterside location offers spectacular views across the River Test.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Around The World photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Bar Risa


Bright and groovy bar
2-4 High Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2DH
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 2917
This popular central bar has two identities. By day it is a great place to chill out and listen to smooth tunes. In the evenings and especially at weekends it is a packed and loud pre-club venue, with many customers going upstairs to Jongleurs, the comedy club. Huge portions of food at great prices are served during the day. You can have a burger with salad and chips, while the tasty nachos with melted cheese, guacamole, salsa and sour cream are also good value. The bar frequently has two for one offers on selected drinks.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bar Risa photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Bargate Shopping Centre


Shopping Arcade
Bargate Centre
East Bargate
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 1HF
United Kingdom
+44 8700 11 0477
http://www.bargate.co.uk
This stylish shopping centre houses an interesting collection of niche shops that sell exotic shoes, candles, clubbing gear, accessories and computer games, amongst other things. The centre also has a large Sega Park on the first floor and an Internet cafe in the basement, which makes it a good place to hang out when you've had enough of shopping. Based on three floors, it was once Southampton's main shopping centre, but it now faces stiff competition from both the Marlands Centre and WestQuay.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bargate Shopping Centre photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Bedfords


Student institution
23 Bedford Place
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 2DB
United Kingdom
+44 2380 33 3705
This popular pub is a student institution in Southampton. University and college students have been coming here for generations. It has been updated for the 21st Century to include a large-screen Dreamcast and a state of the art Shotz jukebox and is never less than completely heaving. Food is served daily and there are also karaoke and DJ nights, pool tables and plenty of games machines.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Bevois Valley


Southampton
United Kingdom
Bevois Valley is an urban area of Southampton, where many of the students from the nearby University of Southampton live and work. Because of this, Bevois Valley is home to some of the most entertaining nightlife in the area, with open-mic nights, beer gardens and a thriving local rock scene. Among these entertaining nightlight scenes is the small, charming pub, the Hobbit, which hosts the biggest beer garden in Southampton. Bevois Valley draws its name from an ancient mythical character, Bevois of Hampton, known for his strength and cunning.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bevois Valley photo by Mark Best
Photo: Mark Best
 

 
Bishopstoke River Inn


Famous pub on the river
Fair Oak Road
Bishopstoke, Eastleigh
Southampton, Hampshire SO50 6LD
United Kingdom
+44 2380 64 3106
http://www.bishopstoke-river-i...
Enjoy a relaxing drink in a garden overlooking a river at this famous, scenic pub. It is located on the Barton River at Bishopstoke, a small village on the outskirts of Southampton. There is a friendly, family oriented atmosphere, with plenty of room to park the car and outdoor and indoor play areas to park the kids. There is an extensive food menu plus adults only and family dining areas.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Brook


Alternative music and comedy
466 Portswood Road
Portswood
Southampton, Hampshire SO17 3AN
United Kingdom
+44 2380 55 5366
http://www.the-brook.com/
This 300 capacity music and comedy venue offers a great mix of live entertainment, from tribute bands like By Jovi and T-Rextasy to touring bands from a bygone age like Average White Band, Wishbone Ash and The Strawbs. Comedians like Craig Charles also regularly appear. The informal atmosphere and lively vibe around show time make it an ideal place for an alternative evening out, while thanks to its proximity to Southampton University it is also very popular amongst students.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Brook photo by Southampton-pubs.co.
Photo: Southampton-pubs.co.
 

 
Café Soleil


Friendly café
137 High Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2BS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 4911
This friendly café, tucked behind Bar Med, is perfect for popping in for a coffee, a spot of breakfast or for a light snack, with a menu that includes toasted sandwiches and jacket potatoes. With a handcrafted interior, it has a distinctly art deco, bohemian look. You can sit at hand-painted tables or watch the world go by on sofas overlooking the high street.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Café Sur La Mer


Stylish waterfront café bar and brasserie
Canute's Pavilion
Ocean Village
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 21 1667
This stylish waterfront café bar and brasserie at Ocean Village is one of the most idyllic places to eat in Southampton. It has a distinctly French flavour and you can sit out on a waterfront terrace overlooking a marina. Coffee, tea and light snacks such as toasted sandwiches and scones are served during the day, while at night the restaurant offers a full a la carte menu. Fresh fish is a specialty and the restaurant is famed for its mussels cooked with dry white wine and fresh cream.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Chicago Rock Café


Theme restaurant and bar
Vincents Walk
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 1JY
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 6353
http://www.chicago-rock-cafe.c...
This 100 seat theme restaurant and bar offers excellent food to a backdrop of live music. There is a huge dining area, where you can enjoy burgers, steaks, pasta and vegetarian dishes, or you can take a coffee in café-style seating overlooking the park. Alternatively, just prop up the bar and listen to one of the many top tribute bands that perform every week, followed on most nights by DJs until 1a. Main course specialties include wild mushroom, spinach and three cheese quesadilla and catfish creole. Or for the seriously hungry there is The Big Bopper, a double pattie with cheese, bacon and mushrooms.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
City Centre


Southampton
United Kingdom
Just off the main high street on Commercial Road you will find the City Art Gallery, which boasts a collection of over 2700 works of art, spanning six centuries. Around the corner, in the same complex of buildings, is the Guildhall, which is the city's major venue for rock, pop and classical concerts. A five minute walk away, following down Commercial Road, is the Mayflower Theatre, the main venue for great musicals, ballets and opera. Past the busy shopping precinct stands the historical Bargate, one of the surviving gateways to the city. Look up when you are walking through and you may see the damage caused by trams, which attempted to pass through the middle until 1949 and sometimes didn't quite make it. Other places of interest in the lower part of town are the Tudor House Museum, which gives a fascinating insight into 15th century life, and the Maritime Museum. This gives a history of the development of the port and tells in detail the story of the famous Titanic, which began its ill-fated voyage from Southampton in 1912.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Centre photo by Aron Fielder
Photo: Aron Fielder
City Centre photo by Ian Grainger
Photo: Ian Grainger
City Centre photo by smilingrobbie
Photo: smilingrobbie
City Centre photo by dyg33
Photo: dyg33
City Centre photo by randomsnapper
Photo: randomsnapper
 

 
Del Marco


Popular sandwich and coffee shop
200 Above Bar Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7DW
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 2412
This popular sandwich and coffee shop is an ideal place to grab a quick bite to eat if you are out shopping in town or meeting up with friends. The décor is smart and modern and you can choose from a wide range of freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, jacket potatoes and pizza slices. Freshly ground coffee, Danish pastries and cakes also are served. The shop has outlets in Hanover Buildings and Above Bar Street.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Eastleigh


Southampton
United Kingdom
Once an important railroad and manufacturing town, Eastleigh is now home to shops and museums, including the Eastleigh Museum, which is housed in the old Salvation Army Citadel. The town is also market by a replica of the famous Spitfire airplane, built in the area and flown during World War II. The Southampton Airport is also located in Eastleigh, which is north of Southampton. Eastleigh is considered a district and borough of Hampshire, England, but it borders Southampton. The borough, as it is today, was formed April 1, 1974. Eastleigh is also the birthplace of beloved comedian Benny Hill.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Eastleigh photo by Sunshine Hanan Smart
Photo: Sunshine Hanan Smart
Eastleigh photo by Intubator
Photo: Intubator
Eastleigh photo by Leslie Bailey
Photo: Leslie Bailey
Eastleigh photo by Joshua Rice
Photo: Joshua Rice
Eastleigh photo by David Mead ( UK ).
Photo: David Mead ( UK ).
Eastleigh photo by stephen.bersey
Photo: stephen.bersey
Eastleigh photo by James Pratt
Photo: James Pratt
 

 
Edge


Popular gay bar and restaurant
59 St. Mary's Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0BH
United Kingdom
+44 2380 36 6163
This combined club, bar and restaurant is the focal point of Southampton's thriving gay community. In the packed downstairs bar, a mix of gay and straight lads and ladies, plus the odd stray tranny, chat and make new friends or dance to hi-energy classics. Upstairs in the Loft Bar you can enjoy a meal in the dining area, chill out on comfortable sofas or pop down to the garden. A narrow corridor leads through to The Box, a small, dimly lit extension to The Edge. Here the atmosphere is clubbier and the music harder, in a house and garage vein. No admission on most nights.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Ferryman and Firkin


Industrial strength beer
38 High Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2NR
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 5458
This busy pub serves up industrial strength pints of beer that are specially brewed on the premises. Part of the famous chain, it has the standard Firkin look and feel, with big screen Sky Sports and seating at wooden benches and tables. To fit in with the ferryman theme, a mock boat, toll boards and spinning wheels adorn the walls. With mainly a young crowd in mind, there are regular DJ and karaoke nights, as well as table football and games machines.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Giddy Bridge


Traditional Wetherspoon's pub
10-16 London Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 2AF
United Kingdom
+44 2380 33 6346
This JD Wetherspoon free house offers a great combination of traditional fare, reasonable bar prices and a range of fine real ales, making it a busy, yet relaxed and cultured drinking spot. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and in true Wetherspoon style there is no loud music and an extensive food menu, available from 11a to 10p. The meals on offer range from bar snacks to a la carte dinners, with the roasts on Sunday a particular favorite amongst the clientèle.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Harry Ramsden's


World famous fish and chips
Ocean Village
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS
United Kingdom
+44 1525 87 8488
http://www.harryramsdens.co.uk
Feel like tucking into a plate of good old-fashioned fish and chips? Then head down to Ocean Village and the most famous fish and chip restaurant on the south coast. A basic meal of fish, cooked in traditional and unique batter, plus chips and all the trimmings costs just £6.20. But if you feel like something different, a range of other dishes are served, such as sausages and mash, salmon fillet and escalope of chicken, plus numerous vegetarian options. You can eat inside the restaurant at smart, wooden, diner style tables or sit out on a waterfront terrace, overlooking the luxury yachts which line the marina. Alternatively, grab a takeaway and take a stroll along the seafront as you eat.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Harry Ramsden's photo by Mark Estes
Photo: Mark Estes
 

 
Hobbit


Popular student and summer pub
134 Bevois Valley Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0JZ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 23 2591
http://www.thehobbitpub.co.uk/
The Hobbit is the number one student pub in Southampton. The huge beer garden at the back makes it a real hit in the summer months, but in the winter you can't find a seat indoors. There is a large pyramid stage at the back of the garden that often hosts bands on bank holidays. There is also live music indoors, from blues to grunge, on Friday and Saturday nights. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly with no dress code and there is a happy hour every day between 6pm and 7pm.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Hobbit photo by Mockney Rebel
Photo: Mockney Rebel
 

 
Ikon & Diva


Southampton superclubs
Leisure World
West Quay Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1RE
United Kingdom
+44 2380 33 3003
http://www.ikon-diva.co.uk
Thanks to state-of-the-art sound equipment, lighting, lasers and videos, Ikon and Diva are considered to be two of the best dance venues in the south. Open until 2am Wednesday to Saturday, they offer differing sounds. Ikon is very much the dance venue, with pumping tunes and guest appearances from some of the UK's finest DJs including Judge Jules, Boy George and Brandon Block, while Diva offers more retrospective disco and dance tracks. Wednesday night is student night in both venues. The clubs can be found inside the huge Leisure World complex.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ikon & Diva photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Joiners Arms


Earthy live music venue
141 St Mary's Street
Southampton, Hampshire S014 1NS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 5612
The Joiners Arms is something of an institution for live music in Southampton. Over the years, numerous acts that have gone on to make it big have appeared on its stage, including Primal Scream and James. Don't expect luxury surroundings. The Joiners is an earthy place, while its clientele are a real mix. Expect to see punks, hippies, goths, anything. The front of the pub is fairly small, with a pool table, and the back of the pub is where the bands play. If you like live music and a lively mixed atmosphere, this is the place for you. If you like clean-cut bars and a quiet drink, then it is not recommended!

Review © 2007, Wcities
Joiners Arms photo by Alex Washtell
Photo: Alex Washtell
 

 
Jolly Sailor


Famous pub on the river
Lands End Road
(Old Bursledon)
Southampton, Hampshire SO31 8DN
United Kingdom
+44 2380 40 5557
The Jolly Sailor is one of the most famous pubs in the Southampton area, thanks mainly to its scenic location at the mouth of the River Hamble. The pub draws large crowds most nights of the week, most of whom sit at smart, wooden tables by the water's edge or on a spare patch of grass. Sailors are even known to moor their boats nearby and pop in for a pint. The pub is renowned for its excellent food and has a separate dining area. The fresh seafood dishes are particularly recommended.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Jolly Sailor photo by Graham Rabbitts
Photo: Graham Rabbitts
 

 
Jongleurs Comedy Club


Top Comedy Club
Bargate Centre
2-4 High Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2DH
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 2918
http://www.jongleurs.com
This highly successful and popular comedy club started off in central London, before taking its unique stand-up style to other major cities on the back of a television series. It is almost a national institution now, specialising in groundbreaking new acts and established comic talent. The Southampton Jongleurs offers live comedy Thursday to Saturday. Big names and local talents tread the boards and the acts are always of the highest quality. Tickets are £8 on Thursday, £10 on Friday and £13 on Saturday. Advance booking is recommended.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Leisure World


Large multi-entertainment complex
West Quay Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1RE
United Kingdom
+44 0871 224 4007
This vast leisure complex provides a world of entertainment options, including the nightclubs Ikon & Diva, the live entertainment bar Jumping Jaks and a casino, plus bars and restaurants such as Ask Pizza, not to mention a 13-screen Odeon Cinema. Moored to the west of Southampton city centre, near the docks, it was built in the late 1990s with a £27 million investment by the Rank Organisation and attracts, on average, 40,000 visitors a week.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Leisure World photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Lizard Lounge


The coolest bar in Southampton
28a Bedford Place
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 2DB
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 2604
It's groovy, it's hip and it's probably the coolest bar in Southampton. Its clientele, a mix of students and locals, are dressed to impress with attitude. The Lizard Lounge is definitely a place to be seen, but this said, the atmosphere is friendly and also pretty relaxed. During the day, The Lizard, with its stained dark floors and rattan chairs and sofas, has a cool and airy feel. Outside is a small terrace where you can chill out and watch the world go by. At night the bar transforms into a busy and lively pre-club destination.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Los Marinos


Waterfront restaurant and tapas bar
31, Town Quay
Hampshire
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ
United Kingdom
+44 23 8033 5045
Re-live your Spanish holiday at this waterfront restaurant and tapas bar in Town Quay. It opens at 10a, so you can enjoy breakfast or a cappuccino on the waterfront terrace. Alternatively, you can choose from tapas snacks during the day or a full a la carte menu in the evening. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights there is a disco until 1a. The seafood menu includes such delicacies as mejillones a la marinera, seafood platters and fresh, locally caught lobster. Meat dishes include tenderloin of pork, fillet of lamb and kangaroo. You can also choose from a selection of vegetarian meals, including strogonoff, lasagne and cannelloni.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Marlands Centre


Shopping centre
Civic Centre Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7SJ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 33 9164
http://www.themall.co.uk/marla...
This bustling shopping mall mixes well known shops like home furniture outlet The Pier with unique stores like Jacaranda, which sells hippy-type and ethnic goods. Nicely designed, with a fountain and trees in the middle, the centre incorporates details of old shop fronts and market stalls sometimes appear on the top floor. There are two cafes, Brophy's on the ground floor offers coffee, cake and baguettes and a cheaper establishment on the top floor serves burgers and chips.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Marlands Centre photo by Michael Collins
Photo: Michael Collins
 

 
Mitre


Popular student pub
200 Portswood Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO17 2LB
United Kingdom
+44 2380 55 4410
This large pub is legendary as a popular drinking spot for Southampton's student community. The décor, green carpet and beige flock wallpaper—is somewhat old-fashioned, but with a young crowd in attendance the atmosphere is never less than lively. To keep the students entertained there is MTV, a virtual reality simulator called Aquajet and live music, while Pickled Newt real ale is also served.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mitre photo by Southampton-pubs.co.
Photo: Southampton-pubs.co.
 

 
Mustang Sally's


Wild west themed restaurant
9 Canute's Pavilion
Ocean Village
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS
United Kingdom
Get a taste of the wild west at this American theme restaurant in Ocean Village. You can enjoy a classic tex-mex meal or get a drink from an authentic saloon bar that serves tequila, bourbon and moonshine. The restaurant is decked out completely in wild west style, replete with mock stagecoach, palm trees and a Red Indian standing on guard in the corner. As you would expect, the food is American style Tex-Mex and Cajun, with steaks and burgers a speciality. The restaurant adjoins the Way Out West adventure centre.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Ocean Dragon


Great value buffet lunches and set meals
17a Above Bar Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7DX
United Kingdom
This is one of Southampton's best-loved Chinese restaurants, thanks mainly to its excellent value "eat as much as you like" buffet lunches. The set meals for two are equally good value, and you receive a range of starter and main dishes. Specialities include crispy aromatic duck and barbeque spare ribs. The restaurant is located in the heart of Southampton's main shopping precinct.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Ocean Village


Restaurants, boats and the SS Shieldhall
At the end of M271
Past the Red Funnel Ferry
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 8353
This waterfront development is one of the UK's biggest marinas and you never know who you might bump into in one of its seafront restaurants or cafes, especially during mega-events like the International Boat Show in September. The real attraction is sitting on the waterfront, looking at a forest of masts with a glass in your hand and recognising famous yachts and faces. There are also two cinemas, the Virgin multi-screen and Harbour Lights Picture House, as well as the SS Shieldhall, a fully operational steamship that berths at Ocean Village when it is not at sea.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ocean Village photo by M Grant
Photo: M Grant
Ocean Village photo by Noel Lewis
Photo: Noel Lewis
Ocean Village photo by Margaret
Photo: Margaret
Ocean Village photo by Daniel Hardwick
Photo: Daniel Hardwick
Ocean Village photo by Keith Duckworth
Photo: Keith Duckworth
Ocean Village photo by Andy Gibb
Photo: Andy Gibb
Ocean Village photo by littletriggers
Photo: littletriggers
 

 
Olive Tree Restaurant


Contemporary Mediterranean cuisine
29 Oxford Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3DJ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 34 3333
http://www.olivetree.co.uk
This bright, smart restaurant offers a delicious range of Mediterranean food served in contemporary surroundings. The menu boasts a wide range of pasta dishes including spaghetti, ravioli, linguini and fusilli, while even the grills are given a Mediterranean twist. For a tasty meal, try the Buffalo Mozarella and Beef Tomatoes as a starter, followed by either the Anitra, a duck dish with a delicious sauce, or the Mazo, a pan-fried beef fillet. The menu changes daily according to what is freshly available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Olive Tree Restaurant photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Piccolo Mondo


Cosy Italian restaurant
36 Windsor Terrace
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7SJ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 6890
Tucked away in a quiet little street in the centre of Southampton is this real gem. Small and family run, Piccolo Mondo serves delicious Italian cuisine to a mix of couples, Italian families and people stopping in for a cappuccino on their way home from work. The menu boasts an inexpensive range of pizzas, pasta, meat and fish dishes, as well as undeniably the best garlic bread in town, made with fresh garlic and olive oil - plenty enough for two. The house wines are also good, as are the cool Italian beers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Pizza Express


Modern pizza restaurant
31-32 Oxford Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3DS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 49 9090
http://www.pizzaexpress.co.uk
This branch of the famous chain of pizza restaurants has a modern design and a cool, relaxed atmosphere. The glass doors at the front slide open in the summer, allowing seating outside on the pavement. In the entrance area there are comfy bright sofas on which to sit, read a paper and enjoy a cappuccino or beer. The restaurant serves a good range of individual pizzas, including vegetarian options. Popular choices include the Cajun, Fiorentina and Four Seasons pizzas. As an accompaniment, the baked dough balls dipped in garlic butter are tasty.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Portswood


Southampton
United Kingdom
Although its name may be slightly tarnished because of its nearby location to the infamous Red Light District, Portswood continues to be a main hub for student activity. With the central campus of the University of Southampton at its feet, Portswood Road boasts a long procession of student bars, takeaways and shops. Vintage-chic fashionistas will find themselves in the mecca of thrift clothing among its particularly extensive selection of charity stores. As the well known supermarket and property chain Sainsbury's continues plans to remodel the upper side, complete with a medical centre, low-cost housing for workers and shopping stores, Portswood is determined to once again reclaim its charm.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Portswood photo by Nico Hogg
Photo: Nico Hogg
Portswood photo by Paul Jones
Photo: Paul Jones
Portswood photo by Robert Fish
Photo: Robert Fish
 

 
Rhino Club


Lively club with no dress code
5-6 Waterloo Terrace
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 2AL
United Kingdom
+44 2380 63 0171
http://www.therhinoclub.co.uk
The Rhino is one of the few clubs in Southampton that does not enforce a strict dress code on the door. As a result it has a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere that contrasts with excellent, loud music from DJs every night. Catering to a young audience and dance lovers, it is situated in the centre of town, ideally located near all the main pubs and bars. Student concessions are available and theme nights are often scheduled.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Spice of India


Popular and conveniently located restaurant
42 Commercial Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1GD
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 0201
Spice up your life at this popular and conveniently located Indian restaurant. The succulent flavours of its speciality Balti, Tikka Masalla and Dhansak dishes will keep your taste buds happy, while the restaurant's proximity to the city centre and The Mayflower Theatre make it ideal for a meal, either before or following a night out.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
TGI Friday's


American theme bar and restaurant
West Quay Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1GY
United Kingdom
+44 2380 23 1678
http://www.tgifridays.com
This American theme restaurant and bar has everything that is expected from the legendary TGI Friday's chain - a very lively atmosphere, a wide selection of pizzas, burgers, fajitas and steaks and, of course, bottle flipping and cocktail juggling bartenders. It serves over 100 American, Tex-Mex, Cajun, Italian, Oriental and speciality dishes. It also offers 600 cocktails, beers and wines. The restaurant is located just across the road from Leisure World.

Review © 2007, Wcities
TGI Friday's photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Talking Heads


Live music, comedy and alternative entertainment
320 Portswood Road
Portswood
Southampton, Hampshire SO17 2TD
United Kingdom
+44 2380 67 8446
http://www.thetalkingheads.co.uk/
This small, friendly music venue puts on gigs by both established and new bands and makes a point to showcase local talent. Styles range from salsa and reggae to dance and disco, as well as rock and indie. There are regular comedy evenings and live traditional Irish music every Sunday around lunchtime. Alternative entertainment is also a feature, with Murder Mystery evenings on alternate Tuesdays. This charming venue can be found in the Portswood area of Southampton, close to The Brook.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Tavern in the Town


A quiet drink in the city centre
130 Above Bar Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7DU
United Kingdom
+44 2380 68 2961
This spacious bar (previously called Tavern in Town) is an ideal place for a quick drink and a breather if you are out shopping in Southampton. As part of the Just So pub chain, it has very cheap prices and, mercifully, quiet background music. So you can actually have conversations with people! Centrally located on Above Bar Street, it is smartly designed, with alcove seating and a ye olde feel. There is also a non-smoking area. There are regular guest beers and food is served until 10p every day.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Town Quay


Restaurants, bars and a marina
Town Quay
Beside the Hythe Ferry docks
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ
United Kingdom
Jutting out onto the water's edge, the Town Quay is one of the most scenic locations in Southampton. As well as an attractive marina, there are restaurants and bars in which you can enjoy a drink or a meal, whilst taking in the fabulous view across the water and watching ships and boats sailing in and out of Southampton. These include Around The World, La Margherita, The Old Orleans and a Monsieur Hulot cafe, while directly opposite the Town Quay you will find Ennio's Al Porto. This is also the place to catch the Hythe Ferry.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Town Quay photo by Tom Goskar
Photo: Tom Goskar
Town Quay photo by Dominic Winsor
Photo: Dominic Winsor
Town Quay photo by Tony Combes
Photo: Tony Combes
Town Quay photo by bobsmithgl100
Photo: bobsmithgl100
 

 
Walkabout


Australian theme bar
31 High Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2DF
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 1764
This Australian theme bar is one of the largest pubs in Southampton. It certainly has the city's biggest Sky Sports screen, a giant cinema sized 21ft x 16ft. Drawing mainly a young crowd, the Aussie theme is predominant throughout the pub with kangaroos and crocodiles gracing the walls and Victoria bitter and a selection of Australian wines served behind the bar. Two-for-one offers on drinks are frequent and food is served almost up to closing time every day. If the action on the giant screen does not appeal, you can hang out in the beer garden or on the balcony.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Walkabout photo by Southampton-pubs.co.
Photo: Southampton-pubs.co.
 

 
WestQuay


Enormous shopping centre
Above Bar Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1BA
United Kingdom
+44 2380 236789
http://www.west-quay.co.uk
This $250 million centre in Southampton is one of the UK's top shopping facilities. It contains a huge John Lewis store and a large Marks & Spencer, along with 70 shop units. Major fashion retailers such as The Gap, Next and Habitat have moved in, alongside megastores such as Tower Records and Sports Soccer. The top floor food terrace contains restaurants and kiosks from the likes of Aroma, Costa Coffee, Haagen Dazs and Pizza Hut, while a panoramic window offers spectacular views over the Solent.

Review © 2007, Wcities
WestQuay photo by Rob Smart
Photo: Rob Smart
WestQuay photo by Ian Partridge
Photo: Ian Partridge
WestQuay photo by Tim Collins
Photo: Tim Collins
WestQuay photo by Sonja Pilkington
Photo: Sonja Pilkington
WestQuay photo by Karen White
Photo: Karen White
WestQuay photo by Duncan Geddes
Photo: Duncan Geddes
WestQuay photo by Steve Cooper
Photo: Steve Cooper
WestQuay photo by Duncan Toms
Photo: Duncan Toms
WestQuay photo by Arpit Agarwal
Photo: Arpit Agarwal
WestQuay photo by Sebastian Stein
Photo: Sebastian Stein
WestQuay photo by Lee Webb
Photo: Lee Webb
WestQuay photo by Julia Jenkins
Photo: Julia Jenkins
WestQuay photo by Mark Blackmore
Photo: Mark Blackmore
 

 
Yates's Wine Lodge


Lively wine bar
113-117 Above Bar Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7FH
United Kingdom
+44 2380 634609
This wine bar from the renowned Yates's chain has a prime spot in the centre of Southampton. Noisy and lively with a young crowd in the evenings, there is a more relaxed atmosphere during the daytime. There is a good selection of table wines and food is served with a waiting guarantee of 15 minutes. Food and drink can also be ordered on account and settled when you leave. However, the décor is somewhat on the busy side, with the patterned carpet particularly hard on the eyes!

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Southampton - Dining & Drinking"
Southampton
Southampton - Historical Background
Southampton - Neighborhood Guide
Southampton - Where to Stay
Southampton - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
Bath (85 miles)
Brighton (88 miles)
Oxford (97 miles)
Bristol (106 miles)
London (123 miles)
Cardiff (145 miles)
Cambridge (177 miles)
Birmingham (182 miles)
Plymouth (203 miles)
Sheffield (276 miles)

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