Cork and Bean — Restaurant in Test Valley

Today was my lucky day. Here in Romsey just for the day. The Cork n Bean was recommended by a salon in town. Had some kind of cheese and cracker board. First thing was the presentation. Wow. Talk about attacking onlookers. Some of the other customers actually got up from their seats to view this piece of visual art. The board was piled with artisan bread, assorted meats, assorted cheeses, crackers, gherkins, olives, mushrooms, an amazing salad, and these little almost miniature tomato like things, bread sticks wrapped in meat slices, grapes, butter, apricots, … I wish I could include this picturesque lunch feast of flavors. There was 2 boards, a garden board and a mixed board. I didn’t see the garden board, but I will never forget the mixed board. I rate this place and this meal with a measly 5 stars. This place deserves a 100 out of 5. The service was also fantastic. The ambiance is memorable. If you’re ever in Romsey, don’t just stop for lunch. Spend a few minutes to search out the Cork n Bean. You’ll most certainly be rewarded with an amazing memory as I have. They were also serving a strawberry and cream bowl for desert which was lite, tasty, and also visually pleasing as it was topped with a couple of tasty flowers. I do hope that they were edible. With all of the amazing tastes, I wasn’t risking leaving them behind. A gentleman guided us into the restaurant. Not sure if he was the owner or manager. Very very friendly person. If you are responsible for this creation, then credits to you....

Edit: I returned last night on the spur of the moment (I know who does that right now? ) and managed to get a table. All seating outside so no air flow issues for me this time. We had a delicious gin from a great selection, bottle of wine (this was dissapointingly expensive, £29.50 and that was the cheapest red) which was really nice - thankfully! To eat we had one cheese platter and one vegan and wow what platters they were absolutely stuffed with local cheeses, fruit, humus, bread, the most amazing onions, salad, etc. Plenty of food and all of it high quality and yummy, we mixed and matched had we brought my husband we would have gone for the meat too, it looked (for meat eaters) great. So up one star to five not only for all that but for the excellent service, blankets, and heaters, we were outdoors but warm enough. In the evening they only offer the platters and simple ice cream puddings but I wouldn't want anything else!

Came here 16th July 20 so during COVID. Tables were spaced and it felt quite safe but I must be honest to get 5 stars I would have liked better air flow. It did feel a little stuffy and if I could I would have sat outside. That apart the staff were friendly and the coffee good. Clean tables, cashless, disposable menu (although I used one and it wasn't removed, but I'm sure it was) I didn't eat anything so can't comment on the food or wine. In again next week when I expect to enjoy a glass of wine, I'm confident it...

What a hidden gem! I don’t often leave reviews, but this place truly deserves recognition. We visited Romsey for the first time yesterday and, by chance, stumbled upon the Cork & Bean.

We stopped for a drink, and the attention to detail and wine knowledge was outstanding. It impressed us so much that we decided to return for dinner—and I’m so glad we did! From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel incredibly welcome, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. We opted for the cheese and charcuterie sharing board for two, and it was absolutely delicious—truly a standout experience.

It’s a real shame we live an hour away because this place has quickly become my new favourite venue. Whether you’re after coffee and cake, wine, or pizza, the atmosphere and overall vibe had us buzzing with excitement.

We’ll definitely be back, most likely with the kids in tow next time, but the passion and love behind this little haven really stood out. Well done to everyone at Cork & Bean, and thank you for making our child-free night away...