From vibrant Sri Lankan street food and theatrical cocktails to tropical interiors and warm island hospitality, discover why The Coconut Tree has become one of Bournemouth's most memorable dining experiences.
23rd July 2026
Bournemouth certainly isn't short of great places to eat, but every so often you come across somewhere that offers much more than just a good meal. The Coconut Tree is one of those places...
Located on Old Christchurch Road, this vibrant Sri Lankan restaurant brings together bold street food, colourful cocktails and an atmosphere that immediately transports you away from the everyday. From the moment you walk through the doors, the warm lighting, tropical décor and upbeat soundtrack create the feeling of stepping into an island bar.
It's vibrant, welcoming and full of energy without ever feeling overwhelming, making it just as suited to a relaxed date night as it is to birthdays, celebrations or evenings with friends.
Unlike a traditional three-course meal, The Coconut Tree encourages diners to order a selection of smaller plates to share across the table. Inspired by authentic Sri Lankan recipes, the menu is packed with bold spices, fragrant curries and colourful dishes that celebrate the country's rich food culture.
Our favourites included the Chicken Kottu, a Sri Lankan street food classic made with shredded roti, chicken, vegetables and aromatic spices, packed with flavour in every bite. We also loved the Kaju Maluwa, a rich and creamy cashew curry that's full of comforting coconut flavours, while the Jaffna Goat & Potato Curry stood out for its beautifully tender meat and deep, warming spice.
Whether you're trying Sri Lankan cuisine for the first time or returning for old favourites, sharing plates allow everyone to sample a variety of flavours throughout the evening.
The cocktails are every bit as memorable as the food...
Many of the cocktails arrive with theatrical garnishes and, in some cases, dramatic flames, creating moments that are just as entertaining as they are delicious. Combined with the warm lighting, handcrafted décor, upbeat music and genuinely welcoming staff, the atmosphere feels relaxed, energetic and full of character.
Our standout favourite was the Sriki-Tiki, served in one of The Coconut Tree's iconic tiki mugs. Beautifully presented and full of tropical flavours, it perfectly captured the fun, firey, island-inspired personality of the restaurant.
What impressed us most wasn't just the food or the cocktails, it was how everything came together.
The atmosphere feels genuine, the staff create a warm and welcoming environment, and every part of the experience encourages people to relax, share food and enjoy each other's company. It's the sort of restaurant where dinner naturally turns into another drink, another conversation and another reason to stay a little longer.
The Coconut Tree is lively without being chaotic, stylish without feeling pretentious, and full of personality without losing sight of what matters most: serving authentic food that's every bit as memorable as the setting.
In a town with plenty of great places to eat, The Coconut Tree offers something genuinely different.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply looking to try somewhere new, it delivers far more than just a meal. It offers a chance to experience the flavours, hospitality and spirit of Sri Lanka, right in the centre of Bournemouth.
If you're looking for somewhere that combines fantastic food, inventive cocktails and an atmosphere you'll be talking about long after you've left, The Coconut Tree deserves a place at the top of your list.
To view a menu, or to make a booking, click HERE
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