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Burnham-on-Sea by Chris Dowey Clacton, Bexhill, Southend, Frinton and of course the fictionally famous Walmington, all share their common descriptor with Somerset’s own Burnham – or rather more formally Burnham-on-Sea. Burnham-on-Sea’s population of approx. 18,500 swells in the summer months when it becomes the home-from-home for hundreds of holidaymakers. The caravan parks, holiday villages, camp sites and guest houses all bring much welcome income for the town which serves as an excellent centre for exploring both north and west Somerset.
Whilst smaller and arguably less ‘kiss-me-quick’ than its cousin further up the coast, Burnham-on-Sea has much to offer both residents and trippers alike. Long sandy beaches, glorious sunsets, bracing sea breezes, spectacular views over the Bristol Channel to Wales and much, much more. Pocket-sized facts: Burnham-on-Sea has had three lighthouses – including the iconic one on stilts; the playwright Ben Travers lived here and has a road named in his honour in the town; Field Marshall Montgomery’s wife, Elizabeth is buried in Burnham cemetery; a 14th century church, St. Andrews, has a tower which leans significantly; the town proudly claims the UK’s shortest pier. But look beyond the bucket and spades, screeching seagulls, sand and saucy postcards and what epicurean delights can be found in this quintessentially British seaside town? SomersetFood.org went in search of foody fayre within the town and the immediate locale.
What is clear is that many of the town’s traders are facing very challenging times – especially those within the food and drink sector. For such a small town Burnham-on-Sea has three major supermarket outlets within 3 miles of the centre, tempting customers away from the more traditional high street independent shops and businesses with the promise of low prices and free parking. This in turn has encouraged most traders to fight back and compete on quality, personal service, uniqueness and in-depth product knowledge. As one would expect, being a seaside resort, Burnham-on-Sea is remarkably well-served with places to eat and drink. Many of course are modest little cafes – ideal for dispensing a warming cuppa or latte when the weather turns inclement. Others are sizeable concerns with very tempting menus offering traditional English fare or even fine French cuisine or the very best in Chinese and Indian delicacies. In addition to actual eateries, the town can also boast some great food retailers from the ubiquitous superstores to independent food specialists. What follows is just a small selection of what is available…
The Take Two Coffee Shop - smooth tasting coffees and much more. Try a slice of one of Bev and Lesley’s home-baked cakes. Ideal location for a lunch-time rendezvous. With an attractive frontage where you can watch the world go by, Truly Scrumptious is a family run cafe offering Fairtrade and organic teas and coffees together with soups, cakes, smoothies and yogurts – all home-made. For a taste of la belle France The Mitre restaurant is Burnham-on-Sea’s very own French connection. Intimate ambiance and charming service create a special dining experience which in today’s fast food world has all bust disappeared. If seeking to plan a dinner party or just a special family meal with a local flavour, Truckles Farm Shop should be a destination choice. An inviting rustic delicatessen layout offers fine local meats, produce and excellent cheeses. Local wines and ciders can also be found. If fresh fish and other fruits de mare are your fancy, try casting your net at Seafoods Fishmongers. Smoked fish and shellfish delicacies are a speciality and compliment the array of UK and continental fish all temptingly displayed to reel you in… From fish to the Far East or from café to Cathay and the Taste Of The Orient – reputedly one of the area’s finest Chinese restaurants. A comprehensive menu for both restaurant diners and take-away customers is offered featuring all those favourite flavours including vegetarian options. Specialising in dairy-free, organic and other health foods, Kyffins is a Mecca for those with dietary or regime requirements where their food and supplements are concerned. Home-cooked vegetarian food, including cakes and pies together with knowledgeable advice can all be found. Home brew beer and wine kits and all the necessary kitchen gadgets can also be purchased. For those who enjoy some spice in their life the Shah restaurant is a bijoux jewel in Burnham-on-Sea’s crown. Authentic Indian cuisine and clean, modern surroundings ensure that this will become a firm favourite. Speciality breads are the order of the day at Winnie’s Bakery. An amazing array of freshly baked award winning breads can be found together with locally roasted Fairtrade coffee. ‘Man shall not live by bread alone…’ so a variety of freshly baked cakes made with free-range eggs are also available. Roast carvery meals take pride of place at Tickle Your Taste Buds café – including a vegetarian roast. Scrumptious cakes and other fancies will also whet your appetite. Choose your own Chinese menu at the Beijing Buffet. For a set price you can select as much of the Kow Choi or Kung Po as you like and feast on the fried rice until you are replete of all things oriental. Within a stylish and comfortable décor, Chandni offer a very comprehensive authentic Indian food experience all served up with friendly and attentive service.
Have we missed your favourite? If so, email chris@somersetfood.org
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