Taste authentic fare from a huge range of nations without ever stepping foot on a plane…Alice Cooke brings you her pick of the best

Casa Brasil, Bournemouth

Straight from the Southern Brazilian high plains comes a centuries-old way of cooking – originally, large portions of beef, pork, lamb, and poultry were spit roasted over the glowing coals of open fire pits, preserving the meats’ natural juices and rich flavours. Soon, brick grills replaced pit fires, and the Churrascaria, the house of barbecue, became the gathering place for feasting and socialising. This is the spirit that lives on at Casa Brasil – the meat is absolutely delicious and the atmosphere is always lively.

www.casabrasilrestaurants.co.uk

L’assiette, Bournemouth

I am not ashamed to say that I love this place. It is everything I want in a restaurant - home cooked, stylish and interesting modern dishes, served by the most lovely, helpful people. Their influence comes from their masterful head chef who was raised and taught in both Senegal and France, before honing her skills in England. They try to source as much local and seasonal produce as possible using our amazing south coast fish and Dorset meats.

www.lassiette.co.uk

Da Vinci’s, Poole

They claim to be the best Italian restaurant on Poole Quay, and personally I’m not arguing. A family business that’s been established for 20 years, they specialise in fresh, local ingredients cooked in true Italian style. Born in Calabria in Italy to a large family of four brothers, Nicola De Paula learnt from an early age the importance of food and has brought this love, enthusiasm and passion to Da Vinci’s. Nicola left Italy in 1984 and came to catering college in Bournemouth. He then spent several years as a Maitre D on busy cruise liners, before returning to Poole to open Da Vinci’s Pizzeria in 1993. Whether you are after a casual pizza supper in a cosy Italian atmosphere or a special meal in a venue that can cater for your special occasion, Da Vinci’s has the answer.

www.da-vincis.co.uk

Koh Thai Tapas, Boscombe

Shrug off the shackles of the three-course meal, sink into a sofa and let them make you a Caipirinha. Have some of the 24-Hour ribs, in fact, have what you want, when you want it. They are passionate about their unique aesthetic, which is at once informal and elegant, authentic and modern. It’s candlelit brickwork against Thai latticework, and street-art murals against historic venues. The food is simply delicious, the staff are gorgeously friendly, and the place is always buzzing.

www.koh-thai.co.uk

Karma Grill and Bistro, Poole

With more than 17 years of experience in London and abroad, chef Martin has perfected the art of incredible Eastern Mediterranean home cooked style food for an authentic and unforgettable range of flavours, aromas and textures. With every dish you are assured of a real taste of the East – and you’ll want to try them all as the menu is superb.

www.karma-mediterranean.co.uk