The Cafe at Compton Abbas Airfield

Guy Ritchie’s Smokehouse at Compton Abbas Airfield was a very interesting experience, not least because I loved watching the Hurricane and Spitfire planes fly around the restaurant. As I arrived, I could hear the hum of an aircraft flying past, adding to the charm of this tranquil airfield. The atmosphere was lively yet serene, making it a delightful place to unwind and enjoy a meal.

The restaurant, which is dog-friendly, operates from Wednesday to Sunday with a limited lunch menu. I was excited to explore the offerings, especially knowing that everything is made on-site with fresh ingredients. The menu features dishes smoked in a JM oil smoker, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. I decided to try the pulled beef brioche bun, the macaroni cheese with smoked chicken, and some French fries. The prices were reasonable, with the pulled beef bun costing £11 and the macaroni cheese at £12.

While waiting for my food, I admired the restaurant’s unique setup, with menu boards designed like airport departure boards. The airy space was complemented by soft background music, and in the summer, I could imagine dining al fresco with stunning views of the runway. It’s something completely different and let’s be honest, the menu isn’t imaginative itself!

The macaroni cheese was tasty, featuring Monterey Jack cheese and juicy, smoky chicken. The texture was wonderfully gooey, though I found it slightly dry in places. Nonetheless, the flavours were satisfying enough. The pulled beef brioche bun was smoky and flavourful, although it was a bit drier than I had hoped. The combination of pickles, ketchup, and crunchy veggies added a nice contrast, but I would have preferred it to be a little more moist.

For dessert, I couldn’t resist ordering a chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream. The brownie was everything I hoped for—gooey and packed full of chocolatey goodness. While I enjoyed the ice cream alongside it, I secretly wished I had opted for double cream instead.

Reflecting on my visit, I found the overall experience to be reasonably positive. The vibe was relaxed, the views were breathtaking and if you’re into your planes, this is the place for you even if you decide not to get a bit to eat. My bill came to a reasonable total, and I recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends, as locals did inform that it gets very busy.

I give Guy Ritchie’s Smokehouse a solid 7.5 out of 10. It’s the perfect spot for a couple of hours away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A special thanks to fellow YouTuber Greeno Eats for the recommendation!