If you're visiting one of our cottages for a special occasion I highly recommend Sienna in Dorchester.
This tiny restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2010, the only one in the Dorset. Recently I had a friend staying from overseas, she is a fine dining fanatic, so finally the occasion I had been waiting for presented itself and we booked in for a late sitting on a Friday night.
I'll be honest, others had mentioned a slight lack of atmosphere due to the size of the reataurant and the fact that it only seats 15, but we actually found this only added to it's charm. My concern was actually that the Michelin star and rosettes might lead to over the top service, but not so at all. One lady was managing the whole show and was a wealth of knowledge on both the food and wine list; she couldn't have been more charming.
All 3 of us ordered the tasting menu which at £55 per head was fantastic value for a restaurant of this calibre. It was epic! The wine list was extensive but not overwhelming and cheaper options were present too.
We absolutely loved the food from start to finish, and my fussiness was accomodated with replacement dishes that were so good the others had order envy!
I will most certainly be back as soon as a fitting celebration presents itself!
Bookings are essential, call 01305 250 022 or visit www.siennarestaurant.co.uk
For full details on Chef Russell Brown visit his website: www.chefrussellbrown.co.uk or follow him on twitter.com/SiennaDorset
