Rockwater – A Coastal Gem Where Food, Art And Music Meet

Just over an hour from London, nestled along Hove’s serene seafront, Rockwater is far more than just a beachside restaurant—it’s a fully-fledged destination for those in search of exceptional food, art, music and an atmosphere of easy-going coastal cool. While Brighton may steal the headlines with its bustle, Rockwater is a reminder that space to breathe and a light-filled interior can elevate a dining experience—and lunch on the roof terrace here proves the point.

The venue itself is a curated experience with interiors designed by Rockwater’s founder and interior designer Ricci Tamagna. Pop Art and seaside-inspired pieces from Brighton’s Helm Gallery line the walls, and you can’t miss the specially commissioned seagull sculpture by Amber-Jane Raab, a playful homage to the coastal setting.

But the star of the show is the food—specifically, the new fish-forward lunch menu created by renowned chef James Golding, whose culinary pedigree includes Le Caprice and Soho House. Golding’s approach is rooted in seasonality and locality, with a coastal theme that sings in every bite. His deep connection to local produce and suppliers is evident, making each dish feel like a love letter to the Sussex shoreline. Golding is Chair of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Sustainability Committee and also works with the Table Talk Foundation helping children develop healthy relationships with food and cooking.

On a sunny afternoon, there are few better spots than Rockwater’s roof terrace, where sea views stretch endlessly and the salt air enhances every mouthful. I began with Jersey Rock oysters, served ice-cold and briny-fresh—the perfect opening act. Next came the Atlantic prawn cocktail, a clever reimagining of the 1970s classic with plump, sweet prawns and a subtle kick of spice. For vegetarians, the New Forest asparagus is a standout: simply prepared, intensely fresh, and full of flavour.

Expect a generous selection of local seafood for mains and I went for the Dover sole with brown shrimps, shallots and parsley, which was delectable. Cooked to perfection and bathed in a golden butter, it was a dish that showcased both restraint and richness—something Golding clearly balances with ease. Adding to the experience are the interiors–decorated with a neutral, beach-inspired palette of sandy tones with hand-woven lampshades–and the great service from the team headed by the affable and infinitely knowledgeable General Manager Patryk Szymanski.

Beyond food, Rockwater thrives as a hub of arts, culture and wellness. Whether it’s live music—spotlighting local and international talent—or unique experiences like sound baths and puppy yoga, there’s always something happening that encourages connection and discovery. That ethos comes from founder Luke Davis, who launched Rockwater in 2020 with a vision of creating a collective community space. A highlight of Rockwater’s cultural programme is the Summer Sunset Sessions on the Roof Terrace, where recent live sets have featured performances from Hove’s local Superstar DJ Fatboy Slim.

With menus inspired by creatives like Margo in Margate, a fellow coastal artist, and a setting that at the height of summer feels more Côte d’Azur than English Channel, Rockwater is a destination that speaks to lovers of the sea, good food, and artistic inspiration. Highly recommended—and well worth the trip.