A sophisticated bar with a fun youthful crowd and a great cocktail list. And they’ll even teach you how to dance.

The Venue
A little bit outside the city centre, attached to the Royal Exeter Hotel, sits this surprisingly trendy bar. It may not have the most imaginative name, but Bar So isn’t half bad.

The outside area with sleek black tiles and black furniture looks good but when you step inside the colours are much lighter and refreshing.

Dark wood tables contrast with the red and green stools, and the circular centrepiece bar with sky lights above is elegant and sophisticated.

The fresh palette looks fantastic during the day, emphasising the light that seems to come in from all angles, but when night falls the bar becomes moody and seductive.

The People
Bournemouth's young professionals appreciate the minimalist sophistication of Bar So, and many flock here after work and on weekends. During the day a more mixed crowd wander in for a casual drink.

When it gets late, things liven up, the crowd lets their hair down and upbeat music plays loudly. They host tango and salsa nights during the week, and for these you'll need a sense of humour.

Most people are up for a laugh while trying to improve their dance skills, and it's a good way of brightening up your midweek schedule.

The Food
Snacks are available from midday until 7pm. Burgers are around £6.95 while sandwiches are about £4, or you can get salmon as a main meal for around £7 to £8.

It's more casual dining than a sit down meal, though. For something more proper, visit their neighbouring bar 1812 which serves a full a la carte menu.

The Drink
Classic cocktails like Cosmopolitan, Long Island Iced Tea and Strawberry Daiquiri are only £5.25, and they're made by experienced bar staff.

For something unique, the bar offers its own concoctions for £5.50, and for a decadent drink, a classic Champagne cocktail for £7.25 is a popular choice.

If cocktails don’t appeal, there is a sparse wine list with only three choices of red and white each, for about £13. Beers on tap include Fosters, Kronenberg, John Smiths and Guinness for £3 to £3.30 a pint, plus Corona, Bud, Asashi and Peroni in bottles at £3.30.

The Last Word
To be a little more adventurous, try a dancing night here armed with a few cocktails and a group of cool friends.

venue information venue map view bournemouth review write a review