Juniper & Vine
Juniper & Vine is a cosy cheese and wine bar, deli, and café right in the middle of Fordingbridge High Street, in the New Forest. It opened its doors in April 2025, run by husband-and-wife team Gareth and Clare Johnston, who also own the nearby Gourmet Grocer.
The spot used to be a tattoo studio, but now it’s a welcoming place for locals and visitors alike, focusing on artisan cheeses, fine wines, charcuterie, and light bites.
During the day, it’s all about relaxed vibes with coffee, lunches, and takeaway treats from the deli counter.
Come evening on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, it turns into an intimate bar with seating for just over two dozen people, serving up sharing boards and small plates alongside a selection of wines and local drinks.
The menu keeps things simple yet appealing, with changing cheese and charcuterie options, plus extras like pates and sausages from nearby producers. They emphasise supporting local makers, so you’ll find bits from New Forest suppliers mixed in.
Opening times are straightforward: closed Mondays and Sundays, open mid-morning to early afternoon Tuesday to Saturday, and then evenings on those three days. You need to book for nights, as it gets popular. They’re planning themed tastings and events, like workshops later in the year.
Turning to reviews, feedback has been glowing since the launch. On TripAdvisor, it holds a perfect five-star rating from around 18 reviews, placing it high among Fordingbridge eateries. Visitors rave about the atmosphere, calling it cosy, intimate, and refreshingly different for the area.
One reviewer loved the background music and attentive staff, highlighting the casual dining setup perfect for chats over drinks.
Food gets heaps of praise too, with mentions of delicious grazing boards, homemade sausage rolls, scotch eggs, and flatbreads like gorgonzola with pear. People say the cheeses and meats are top quality, and the wine list is well-chosen, including local options that pair nicely.
Service stands out in nearly every comment, with Gareth, Clare, and their team described as friendly, knowledgeable, and generous hosts. Folks appreciate the helpful advice on pairings without any pressure.
Many have returned multiple times, noting it’s great for couples, friends, or family lunches, and even post-cinema drinks. A few highlight the value, saying it’s a welcome addition to the high street that hits the spot every visit.
No major complaints surface; instead, reviewers urge booking ahead, especially weekends, as tables fill up fast.
Over on Facebook, it’s got full recommendations from about 10 people, echoing the warm welcome and enjoyable experiences.
Overall, Juniper & Vine seems to have quickly become a favourite, blending quality food, good drinks, and a laid-back feel that draws repeat custom. If you’re in Fordingbridge, it sounds like a spot worth trying for a casual outing.