The story
Soulshine brings Modern European cooking to Bridport's South Street, where owners Joel and Andy draw on their River Cottage background to champion small-scale artisan producers. The pair work with over 27 local suppliers to source every grain, fruit, meat, dairy product, and pantry item, building a menu that responds directly to the changing seasons. This extensive local network supports the kitchen's commitment to regional provenance across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
The dinner menu features tightly choreographed small plates that let truly locally sourced ingredients take centre stage. Diners might encounter Baron Bigod brie paired with salted walnuts and a drizzle of Devon honey, or a salami blend of Dorset venison, pork, and sloe berries served with cornichons. The kitchen applies a Modern European lens to these regional products, creating vegetarian medleys such as peach with whipped ricotta, pickled onion, and almonds, or beetroot accompanied by barley, black garlic, and hazelnuts. Supper clubs held four evenings a week offer set menus that highlight these creative combinations.
Recognised by The Good Food Guide, Soulshine balances culinary rigour with a welcoming environment. Step past the bar stools and silver espresso machine, and a corridor leads to a semi-secret dining room defined by bohemian energy. Potted plants fill the corners while artworks and bursts of primary colour create a vibrant backdrop for meals. An outdoor dining space extends the seating during warmer months, and private rooms accommodate private parties.
Soulshine operates its own Goose & Badger roastery, granting full control over flavour profiles and producer partnerships. Guests can enjoy an affogato prepared with this house-roasted coffee, or visit the café counter for breakfast and casual lunch service without a reservation. A succinct but eclectic wine list accompanies the dinner menu, providing versatile pairings for the small plates.
Recognition
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