Rita's

In The Old Town’s Oxford Street, Rita’s brings an Art Deco flourish to Southampton’s dining scene. Equal parts craft cocktail bar and restaurant, it is a place for polished pleasures: a carefully shaken drink, a lively hum of conversation, and plates that swing from playful to indulgent.

Rita’s kitchen favours bold, globe-trotting flavours. Think gochujang-laced mac and cheese arancini with Sriracha mayo, crisp tempura prawns brightened with lime, and big plates that feel celebratory: whole lobster under a miso glaze with yuzu slaw, or a flat iron steak sharpened by chimichurri and a pile of fries. Soft, pillowy bao carry Korean crispy chicken or aromatic duck with hoisin and pickles.

Comfort seekers find winter warmers—baked goat's cheese, crab cakes, chicken pot pie and house curries—alongside stacked burgers and loaded nachos, with fries of many persuasions. Rita’s roasts celebrate comfort, from sirloin of beef to lamb chops, best enjoyed in convivial company.

Behind the bar, handcrafted cocktails lead the way and premium pours keep spirits high, while weekends are soundtracked by live musicians and DJs. Settle in, sip something bright, and let the kitchen do the talking—book a table and make an evening of it, with a twinkle and a twist.