SANDWICHED between the idyllic row of shops in the stunning New Forest town of Brockenhurst lies the superbly understated Simply Poussin restaurant.

The sister restaurant Le Poussin at the Whitley Ridge Hotel, one of only a few Michelin-star eaterie in Hampshire. Simply Poussin is described as the place where it all started'.

The delightful secluded courtyard setting in the village of Brockenhurst, is the perfect venue to sample some of the best in local produce.

I decided to enjoy my birthday lunch in the company of my friend from London to prove that not all the best restaurants are in the capital.

The restaurant is quite small so it advisable to ring ahead to check availability as the popularity of this quaint eaterie means you may not get a table if you just turn up.

Simply Poussin is a decadent yet informal brasserie and is now run by Alex Aitken Junior and features a conservatory and tables outside so dining can be enjoyed al fresco in the summer months.

It was a cold wet day when we arrived so we opted for the indoor option. The restaurant boasts a simple but charming menu at ordinary prices. Diners can choose from the lunch or dinner £10.50 menu and a free glass of Rioja, which includes two courses from the daily menu and a 125ml glass of Rioja or choose anything from the equally tempting A la Carte menu with starters from £5.95 and main courses from £11.95.

We decided to be greedy and wanted to sample dishes from both menus - so we did. I opted for a cheese souffle starter which is a rich creamy soufflé baked twice with a glazed cheese crust and my friend chose the French onion soup.

The two dishes got us off to a great start and set us up nicely for our impending main courses and of course, the dessert.

I chose baked cod on a bed of new potatoes and sugar snap peas with a bernaise sauce and my friend had a leg of chicken on mash potato and seasonal vegetables which again we completely polished off.

We just about had room for dessert and we insisted on sampling the crème brulee and the gooseberry and apple crumble although I think I was being a bit ambitious as I struggled to finish my crumble.

This means I will have to go back to ensure I have a complete meal, something I am really looking forward to!

For bookings and more information visit www.simplypoussin.co.uk or call 01590 623063. Simply Poussin, The Courtyard, Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.