Outback Pizza is a pizza restaurant located at 146 Seabourne Road in Southbourne, a coastal suburb of Bournemouth. It specialises in wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings, offering a casual dining experience close to the beach.
This page covers what to expect when visiting Outback Pizza, the style of food served, its location in Southbourne, and how it fits into the wider dining scene in Bournemouth. It also includes practical details on getting there and nearby attractions.
What type of food does Outback Pizza serve
Outback Pizza focuses on wood-fired pizzas cooked in a traditional style. The menu includes classic options such as Margherita and Pepperoni, alongside more inventive toppings that reflect local and seasonal ingredients. Pizzas are available in various sizes, suitable for sharing or individual meals.
The wood-fired oven is at the heart of the kitchen, giving the pizzas a distinctive charred crust and smoky flavour that sets them apart from standard oven-baked varieties. This method also allows for a quick cooking time, ensuring the base remains crisp while the toppings stay fresh and vibrant.
In addition to pizza, the restaurant offers a selection of starters, salads, and desserts. Starters might include simple but flavourful options like garlic bread, bruschetta or mixed olives, providing a light beginning to the meal. Salads often feature fresh, seasonal produce and house-made dressings, offering a refreshing complement to the rich pizzas.
The dessert menu typically includes classic Italian-inspired sweets such as tiramisu or panna cotta, rounding off the meal with a touch of indulgence. The drink list features soft drinks, wines, and beers chosen to complement the flavours of the food. Local Dorset wines and craft beers are sometimes featured, supporting regional producers and enhancing the dining experience.
The emphasis throughout is on fresh ingredients and straightforward, well-balanced dishes that appeal to a broad range of tastes, from families to couples and groups of friends.
Special dietary options
Outback Pizza caters for common dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Some pizzas can be adapted with alternative bases or toppings to suit dietary needs. For example, gluten-free pizza bases are available, allowing those with gluten intolerance to enjoy the wood-fired experience without compromise.
Vegetarian options are plentiful, with pizzas featuring seasonal vegetables, cheeses, and herbs. Vegan diners can often request dairy-free cheese substitutes or opt for vegetable-forward toppings, though it is advisable to check the latest menu or contact the restaurant directly for specific allergen information and availability.
The restaurant’s approach to dietary needs reflects a wider trend in Bournemouth’s dining scene towards inclusivity and accommodating diverse preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Location and surroundings of Outback Pizza
Situated on Seabourne Road, Outback Pizza is within walking distance of Southbourne’s main shopping and dining area, Southbourne Grove, which lies about 0.3 miles (6 minutes on foot) to the north. The restaurant is also close to Southbourne Beach, a popular stretch of sandy coastline along the English Channel.
Southbourne itself is a quieter alternative to Bournemouth town centre, with a village atmosphere and a mix of independent shops, cafes, and eateries. This gives the area a relaxed, community feel that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a more laid-back experience.
The location makes Outback Pizza convenient for combining a meal with a visit to the beach or a stroll along the promenade. After dining, guests can easily enjoy a walk along the clifftop or the sandy shore, making it an ideal spot for a full day of seaside leisure.
Nearby attractions and amenities
- Southbourne Beach: sandy and family-friendly, with beach huts and a promenade perfect for leisurely walks or watching the sunset.
- Southbourne Grove: shops, cafes, and local services offering everything from boutique shopping to coffee stops.
- Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens and town centre: approximately 3 miles west, accessible by bus or car, where visitors can explore parks, shops, theatres, and a wider range of dining options.
Southbourne’s charm lies in its balance between the tranquillity of a seaside village and the convenience of urban amenities, making Outback Pizza a great choice for a relaxed meal in a pleasant setting.
How Outback Pizza compares to other Bournemouth pizza restaurants
Bournemouth offers a range of pizza options, from fast-casual chains to independent pizzerias. Outback Pizza distinguishes itself by its focus on wood-fired cooking and a relaxed, informal setting in Southbourne.
| Restaurant | Location | Style and Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Outback Pizza | Southbourne | Wood-fired pizzas, fresh ingredients, relaxed atmosphere |
| Baffi | Canford Cliffs | Neapolitan sourdough, Italian sharing plates |
| El Murrino | Bournemouth town centre | Wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta |
| The Stable | Near Lower Gardens | Sourdough pizza with West Country cider |
This comparison highlights Outback Pizza’s local appeal for those seeking quality pizza near the coast, distinct from the busier town centre venues. While places like Baffi and El Murrino offer authentic Italian styles with sourdough bases and pasta dishes, Outback Pizza’s emphasis on wood-fired cooking and a welcoming neighbourhood vibe makes it a popular choice for casual dining in Southbourne.
The Stable, known for its sourdough pizzas paired with West Country cider, offers a different experience closer to the town centre, whereas Outback Pizza provides a more seaside, family-friendly environment. This variety across Bournemouth ensures pizza lovers can find a venue to suit their mood and occasion.
Getting to Outback Pizza from Bournemouth town centre
Outback Pizza is about 3 miles east of Bournemouth town centre. By car, the journey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available on nearby streets, though spaces can be limited during busy periods, especially on weekends or during events.
Public transport options include regular bus services running along Christchurch Road and Seabourne Road. The nearest bus stops to Outback Pizza are on Seabourne Road itself, within a short walk of the restaurant. These buses connect Southbourne with Bournemouth town centre and other suburbs, making it easy to reach without a car.
For those travelling by train, Bournemouth station is the closest mainline station. From there, a bus or taxi is required to reach Southbourne, taking around 15 minutes. Taxi ranks and ride-hailing services are readily available at the station for convenience.
Cyclists can also access Southbourne via dedicated cycle routes along the coast, offering a scenic and eco-friendly way to travel. Bicycle parking is available near Outback Pizza for those who prefer to pedal.
When to visit Outback Pizza and what to expect
Outback Pizza operates throughout the week, with opening hours typically covering lunch and evening service. The restaurant can be busy during weekends and school holidays, reflecting its popularity with local families and visitors.
Booking a table in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups or weekend dining, to avoid disappointment. The atmosphere is informal and family-friendly, making it suitable for casual meals after a day at the beach or a relaxed evening out.
The staff are known for being welcoming and attentive, contributing to a comfortable dining experience. The interior decor is simple but cosy, with an emphasis on natural materials and a warm colour palette that complements the wood-fired theme.
During warmer months, some outdoor seating may be available, allowing guests to enjoy the sea breeze and watch the world go by on Seabourne Road. This al fresco option is particularly popular in summer and adds to the relaxed coastal vibe.
How Outback Pizza fits into Bournemouth’s food and drink scene
Southbourne is one of several neighbourhoods in Bournemouth known for its diverse dining options. Outback Pizza contributes to this variety with its focus on wood-fired pizza, complementing other local restaurants that offer Italian, seafood, and international cuisines.
The area’s dining scene reflects Bournemouth’s broader appeal as a coastal town where food and leisure combine. Visitors often plan meals around outdoor activities like beach visits, coastal walks, or exploring local shops and galleries.
For a broader selection, the food & drink guide covers restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes across Bournemouth, including options in the town centre, Westbourne, and Boscombe. This guide helps visitors discover the full range of dining experiences available, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Outback Pizza is part of the wider coastal experience in Bournemouth, where meals often combine with outdoor activities such as beach visits or walks along the promenade. This integration of dining and leisure is a key feature of the area’s appeal, making it a destination for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.