Agora is a family-run Turkish and Greek restaurant on Old Christchurch Road, a short walk from Bournemouth town centre. It's built its reputation on Mediterranean hospitality and food cooked the traditional way, over a real charcoal fire, and has become one of the town's better-known spots for kebabs and mezze, rated 4.5 out of 5 across more than 350 Tripadvisor reviews.
The food
The menu draws on Turkish and Greek traditions in equal measure: hot and cold mezze to share, slow-cooked casseroles, and charcoal-grilled specials that are the restaurant's calling card. Standout dishes include the lamb shish kebab, kleftiko (a slow-cooked lamb shank with vegetables), chicken kebab, charcoal-grilled kalamari and sea bream. Mains generally run from around £17 to £23. As with any restaurant, dishes and prices can change, so it's worth checking Agora's current menu before you visit.
Atmosphere
The setting is designed for gathering with friends and family, with a warm, hospitable feel that regulars come back for. Some evenings bring live music and dancing, adding a livelier, festive edge to the usual sit-down dining experience, though this isn't guaranteed every night, so ask ahead if it matters to your visit.
Good to know
Agora is open Sunday to Thursday from 5pm to 11pm, and Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 11.30pm, but closed on Mondays. Given its strong reputation, booking ahead is a good idea, particularly at weekends, call 01202 311525 or book via the restaurant's website. It sits on Old Christchurch Road, an easy walk from the town centre.
For more places to eat in Bournemouth, browse our food & drink guide, or see what else fills a day out in our things to do guide.