A la Colthard/Rockwater

Readers will recall my wariness of restaurants with great views.

The Rockwater is one such and where I lunched yesterday.

It is situated on the esplanade at Hove and from our window table we could see the breakers. Yet the whole restaurant experience was unsatisfying.

There did not seem to be anyone in control, the eating and dining space was spread over three levels – ground, first and club – and the menu was limited but expensive.

I ordered a heritage tomato bruschetta, which could have done with some basil and mozzarella to liven it up, and a rather dry chicken harissa.

There was still a space for some pud and I went for a berry cheese cake.

With lager beforehand, bottle of Miraval rose and couple of Baileys the bill worked out at £75 per head.

The owner has clearly splashed out on the decor but my conclusion was that it would be great for drinks on a hot day but unexceptional for a meal at any other time.

I also have an aversion to forking out £750 for  membership for a restaurant.