Alex Fisher visits The Crab & Lobster, Sidlesham, West Sussex
WHET MY APPETITE
The peace and serenity of Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve is the setting for this excellent restaurant with rooms. Concentrating on locally caught fish and seafood, this 2-AA rosette inn is a secret escape, tucked away from the busy bustle of the modern world. It’s worth making a trip and staying the night for the utter joy of waking up to the divine, virtually traffic-free, location. Go for an early morning walk around the reserve and look out for little egrets and black-tailed godwits in the saltmarshes and shallow lagoons.
WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
Much is sourced from local producers, including Selsey fishermen and neighbouring dairy farmers. We tried seared scallops with beetroot carpaccio, port and beetroot purée, with walnut and caper dressing, which was delicious, followed by pan-fried filleted catch of the day served with herb potatoes and seasonal greens.
HOW’S THE MOOD?
Friendly and relaxed dining for couples, families and special occasions.
CAN I SEE THE SEA?
The tidal saltmarshes are just outside. The sea nears the restaurant at high tide, virtually disappearing at low tide.
WHAT’S THE DAMAGE?
Mains begin at around £16.75 and starters are priced from £8.75. You can stay overnight in one of the stylish rooms for £185 for a double on a weekday and £195 on the weekend.
OPENING TIMES
Daily, with the bar open to walkers from 11am to 11pm. Mon-Fri the restaurant is open from 12-2.30pm and 6-9.30pm. Sat-Sun, from 12-9.30pm. Book on 01243 641233 or at crab-lobster.co.uk.
