New family-run restaurant MK Gourmet Kitchen opens at The Dolphin in Poole
A popular local food business has taken the next step in its journey, opening its first permanent restaurant at The Dolphin in Poole town centre.
Family-run MK Gourmet Kitchen has opened its doors at The Dolphin, offering homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, alongside coffee, snacks and its popular signature dishes.
Founded by local entrepreneur Khaled and his wife four years ago, MK Gourmet Kitchen began as a mobile kitchen in Corfe Mullen, Wimborne. The couple have built up a loyal following with dishes including homemade burgers, loaded fries and wraps.
Now, after a year spent searching for the right location, the business has moved into its first permanent home at The Dolphin, opposite Primark on the centre’s ground floor.
Khaled said:
“We have spent the last year looking for the perfect location to open our first ever restaurant, and The Dolphin was the perfect fit for our business.
“I have worked in hospitality for over 20 years and am proud to take this next step and launch MK Gourmet Kitchen in its new permanent home in Poole town centre.
“I am grateful for the community my wife and I have built since starting our mobile site in 2022. It is only through our customers’ loyalty that we now find ourselves in the position to fulfil our dream of opening our own restaurant.”
Something for breakfast, lunch and dinner
MK Gourmet Kitchen is open throughout the day, with a menu designed to offer plenty of choice whether customers are grabbing something quickly or sitting down for a meal.
The menu includes breakfasts, homemade burgers, fresh paninis, focaccia sandwiches and hot wraps, with options available for different times of the day.
The restaurant also opens into the evening, making it an option for those visiting Poole town centre for a meal with friends or family.
Khaled added:
“We really do believe we have the best versatile dining offer for locals, whether they are looking to grab a quick breakfast on the go, meet with friends for a coffee, enjoy a home-cooked lunch, or come together with family for an evening meal.
“We have something for everyone and are pleased to be a part of The Dolphin community.”
The new restaurant marks a significant milestone for the couple, with their mobile site in Corfe Mullen now closing as they concentrate on their new Poole town centre location.
A new addition to The Dolphin
John Grinnell, Centre Manager at The Dolphin, said the team was delighted to welcome the new restaurant.
“The team and I are delighted to welcome Khaled and his team to The Dolphin. Khaled’s dedication to hospitality and delivering homemade, great tasting food complements our existing dining options and provides locals with even more choice when visiting The Dolphin.
“I wish the team all the best with their opening and look forward to seeing the business thrive.”
The arrival of MK Gourmet Kitchen adds another independent food business to The Dolphin, which has continued to develop its food and community offering alongside its retail stores.
The centre is home to more than 90 retailers, including major high street names as well as independent and specialist businesses. It also hosts The Dolphin Street Food, The Dolphin Street Market and GATHER, a community events space hosting workshops, pop-ups and other local events.
MK Gourmet Kitchen opening hours
Monday–Thursday: 8am–9pm
Friday–Saturday: 8am–10pm
Sunday: 9am–4pm
📍 MK Gourmet Kitchen, The Dolphin, Poole
For the menu and seasonal offers, visit MK Gourmet Kitchen.
For more information about The Dolphin, its shops, food and community events, visit The Dolphin website.
