57-59 Charminster Road,
BOURNEMOUTH,
BH8 8UE
The ViewBournemouth Review
Tripling up as a bar, a cafe and a restaurant, Bar Zuka is a pleasant place to socialise over tapas or meze.
The Venue
The restaurant area is quite small and minimally furnished, with several small tables and a few sofas and barstools. There appears to be little expectation for groups of more than two, but tables can be moved together for larger parties.
A decked patio area at the back provides more seating with a few slightly bigger tables with benches and cushions. Some of this area is undercover, and the decked flooring and pretty flowers make it an appealing place to sit.
The People
The venue doesn’t get as busy as other bars and restaurants on this popular street, but there are usually a few groups of young friends drinking in the patio area. Staff are polite and accommodating, but a little slow to notice you if you’re sitting outside.
The Food
Bar Zuka specialises in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. Complimentary bread and butter is a nice touch, but the quality of the dishes isn’t always great. Mostly, the dishes are delicious and thoughtfully prepared, but occasionally they are a little bland.
Mixed meze is usually a safe bet – it’s £6.95, which is reasonable for the variety you get, and there’s enough to share between several people. The hummus in particular is delicious and creamy. On the Spanish side of the menu, tapas goes from £2 to £6, including the usual choices such as patatas bravas and Spanish omelette.
The quality of main courses can be hit or miss. The mousakka, with lentils and vegetables and served with rice, is usually a tasty dish and is reasonable at £7.50. Other dishes, such as chicken in brandy, white wine and garlic (£10.50), aren’t bad, but they’re not particularly impressive.
The Drink
Bar Zuka is a better drinking spot than an eating venue. The patio area outside is a nice atmosphere to meet with friends, and drinks prices are reasonable at £2.95 for a glass of wine, £3 for spirits, and around £3 for a pint or bottle of beer. Cocktails are £5 to £6.50.
The Last Word
You stand as much chance to be impressed as you do disappointed here. Meze and tapas are a safe bet and are usually very tasty, but you’re better off using Bar Zuka as a drinking venue, and eating at one of the many other restaurants in this street.
Bar Zuka has been reviewed by 1 users