Popular Isle of Wight Pearl Cafe gets Matt and Cat thumbs up

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The impressive new deli section had some great-looking filled rolls and salads, but the winter special is where it's at. 

Homemade hot Island beef stew and dumpling can't be argued with. We were told which farm the beef was from, and the prominently displayed list of local suppliers was indicated. 

The top-quality stew was stuffed with good, rich beef chunks that fell apart in the mouth. 

Mushrooms and carrots were involved, but this was all about the meat and that classic suet dumpling on top. 

Soup of the day was no less rewarding. Carrot, leek and onion sounds workaday, but this was far from it. 

A rich, golden broth came with some splendid fresh sourdough baguette slices alongside. This was all so good that we had to ask what the secret was. 

Our cheery waitress went to enquire of the chef, who rightly would not be drawn and gnomically added that it was "made from the heart". 

We did discover that it wasn't just the addition of a lot of butter — as all the soups at The Pearl Cafe are entirely plant-based. 

We haven't even mentioned the view yet. The vista of the English Channel from this cafe is sublime — arguably one of the best sea views on the Island or, indeed, much of the country. 

We were lucky enough to see the weak sun sinking in a cloudy sky and, as we pondered the exquisite soup, we could see rainstorms lit from behind by the god-rays. 

In the summer, you can sit out on the lawn and enjoy the sun — in the winter the cosy interior benefits from its panoramic windows. 

The view of the English Channel from The Pearl Cafe, Brighstone. (Image: Matt and Cat)

But let's save the best until last. The top reason to come to The Pearl Cafe is the service. 

This has been the case every time we've visited; in high season or midwinter, the cheerful and informative staff are a delight. 

This, we have no doubt, is the true reason for the success of The Pearl Cafe and the whole of Isle of Wight Pearl — it's a venue that knows how to make everyone feel truly welcome.