IT was chucking it down with rain when we ventured into the elegant Edwardian glasshouse that houses the Palm House cafe bistro in Weymouth.

Hearing the rain falling upon the roof and being surrounded by greenery gave the cavernous atrium a cosy feel on a murky grey day. I was surprised at how busy it was, which meant I had to go foraging for menus for my group.

Despite not receiving a welcome as we arrived, I was delighted to find an interesting-looking specials board and found the member of staff I spoke to very friendly when I went up to order our food.

I ordered a chilli con carne, while my friends went for a jacket potato with cheese and beans and a classic lasagne.

The jacket potato was tasty and fluffy and came with a crisp salad, a simple dish well done.

My chilli wasn’t quite as spicy as I would have liked, but came with some delicious fluffy rice and a pitta bread and contained good quality mince.

I am no glutton, but even I found the size of my meal to be a little light.

I enjoyed the laidback ambience of the Palm House, but one disappointment was a persistent drip falling from above on to my friend’s head.

Given the sheer size of the glasshouse, you couldn’t expect it be completely toasty, but I would have liked to have seen some patio heaters turned on.

However, the unique feel of this place is its real selling point and I thoroughly enjoyed the surroundings and the mixtures of tables and comfy sofas, beckoning anyone who likes curling up for an undisturbed read of the paper.

This place was really popular with families and had what looked to be a well-stocked children’s play area.

There were also craft items for sale dotted around the cafe, giving it a whimsical air and offering an unusual shopping experience.

The unique atmosphere makes a trip to the Palm House worthwhile but be aware the overall experience is a little more cafe than bistro.

  • The Palm House, Commercial Road, Weymouth, DT4 7TZ, 01305 458089, thepalmhouseweymouth.co.uk
  • This is an independent review by a reporter without the co-operation of the establishment.

The Bill

My Palm House bill:

Chilli con carne £6.45
Jacket potato with cheese and  
beans x2  £12.90
Classic lasagne  £6.25
Cappucino  £2.10
Elderflower presse £1.85
Pot of tea £1.45
Latte £2.15

TOTAL:   £33.15