Fables and food

7 Dinham Walk, Poundbury, Dorchester DT1 3WU, United Kingdom
+44 1305 562320
$$$ Cafe
(88 Reviews)
Price Range £10–20

Located in the charming Poundbury area of Dorchester, Fables and Food is not just a café; it's a heartfelt invitation into a world of delightful flavors and warm hospitality. This gem offers a culinary experience deeply rooted in South African cuisine, infused with a unique local twist that makes it unlike any other café around.

As you step inside, you're greeted by a bright and light atmosphere that feels both cozy and inviting. The décor reflects a cheerful South African vibe, easing you into a state of relaxation as you sit down to explore the enticing menu. Whether you're seeking a leisurely lunch or a quick coffee break, Fables and Food provides an environment that feels like a home away from home.

The menu at Fables and Food boasts an array of tantalizing offerings. Start your lunchtime journey with the House Salad, a vibrant and fresh creation that changes daily, complemented perfectly by Wobbly Cottage sourdough bread and butter for just £6.95. If you're in the mood for something richer, do not miss the Saicy Steakwich; tender fried steak slathered in garlic butter, nestled within farmhouse bread topped with melty cheese and creamy ranch sauce – a mouthwatering treat for only £9.95.

For those cozying up to a classic, the Old School BLT is absolutely delightful. Layered with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato, each bite bursts with flavor for just £4.50. Not to mention, the selection of sandwiches like the Tuna Mayo with a Twist and The Mayo Hatch offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and creativity, ensuring there's something for everyone.

But the indulgence doesn't stop at food. Fables and Food also presents a fascinating array of unique drinks that are sure to awaken your senses. From the scrumptious Flavoured Café Lattes available in six tempting flavors for £4.50 to the refreshing Green Matcha Latte at £3.95, each sip is crafted to perfection. Their fresh juices and milkshakes topped with whipped cream are perfect for quenching your thirst, making your visit feel that much sweeter.

Patrons rave about the spirit of this café, and the reviews echo a consistent theme of friendliness and exceptional service. Take it from Ian Taylor, who commended the café for its great coffee and welcoming staff. Georgina Frampton spoke of the lovely atmosphere, incredible food, and beautiful presentation of her French toast – a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Meanwhile, Nathan Busby had a delightful experience sampling freshly baked cookies alongside satisfying coffee, which left him eager to return and try more of the inspired menu.

In a sea of cafés, Fables and Food stands out as a true hidden gem. Whether you’re visiting for a comforting meal or simply to enjoy a cup of coffee with a side of freshly baked goods, you will undoubtedly leave with your belly full and a smile on your face. This is more than just a meal; it is a culinary story waiting to be told. Don’t miss the opportunity to create a memorable experience here.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Has free water refills
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed inside
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

88 Reviews
Ian Taylor

21 Sep 2025

Stopped here on our way to Devon, Highly recommend, Great coffee, Very welcoming staff.

Georgina Frampton

19 Sep 2025

Fables and food has a lovely atmosphere, it is happy and Homely, has incredible food and amazing service. I had the French toast and it came out so well presented and tasted just as good as it looked! This cafe is like no other I’ve been to before as it has such a South African vibe, from the food to the decor! They even sell fresh eggs, cakes and fresh bread. Could not recommend enough!

Elizabeth Young

09 Sep 2025

Such an amazing hidden gem. A truly unique selection to eat and to drink on the menu. A cosy indoor seating area, or a seat with a water fountain view outside. What's not to love?

Shannon Richards

03 Sep 2025

It was mine and my partners first time coming into fables and food today and there was not one thing I could fault. We both absolutely loved it! The food was something we both haven’t tried before and it exceeded expectations. From presentation to flavour we were left with our bellies full and happy faces. The staff treated everyone who entered like familiar faces and took there time to help everyone! It has such a friendly atmosphere! If you’re looking for something a bit different I would definitely recommend. We will definitely be back!!

Janna Hagen

29 Aug 2025

Bright & light space with delicious food, service and a super friendly welcome. Loved the decor too. Would defo recommend. Wishing you much success

Sun Dee

17 Aug 2025

Lovely food and host/wait team! We went for the special barbecue lunch and it was lovely as well as great value. My only comment would be that I'd have loved it if the food had been brought in piping hot but it was delicious nonetheless. Definitely revisiting to try other things on their menu.

Nathan Busby

09 Jun 2025

I have passed Fables and Food several times before today, and thought I’d give it a try - it didn’t disappoint. Lovely friendly place, with great coffee, and freshly baked cookies - I also sampled the owners biltong which was delicious. I think we might of found our new favourite place to grab a coffee - and I look forward to coming back and sampling the food too!

Griff Hayward

27 May 2025

An absolutely brilliant cafe with delicious fresh food, friendly staff and very reasonable prices! The South African cuisine was one I had not tried before, but it was presented brilliantly to me with the wide array of inventive yet authentic dishes on offer. The coffee was also brilliant and the cakes were delicious.

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