You have to wait a long time for your food here which is a major disappointment and something many ither reviewers have noted.
Some of the other low reviews here point to many of the issues a chain restaurant suffers from - constantly changing serving staff and chefs.
With all that said, the head server and Toni-Jay were amazing with us on our two visits.
While I have seen some reviews point to the quality of food, as a seasoned reviewer I thought it was to a very good standard overall.
The fish was daily and very fresh. The different starters, like the vegetable tempura, were done very well, with decent quality olives for example, and bread.
The sides like beans and slaw with great, as well as rhe compound butters.
I also thought their lager was tasty.
The decor is very pleasing in here and the fake shipping forecast audible in the rest rooms was amusing.
The owners of the chain have to get to grips with the food-speed issue and I was surprised to find it was a chain after our first visit. However, the wait for quality food was worth it overall.
Many people will not come back locally if these issues persist on slow-speed of food, and on both occasions the wait for food was 40 minutes per course.
Because there is a high-turnover of tourists in the summer, though, I suspect it will be able to manage this situation.
This is a must-book place I would say if you are going to eat here in tourist season as it...
Read moreRockfish in Poole is an absolute gem, a culinary masterpiece nestled in the heart of the town. I never imagined I would stumble upon a place that serves such exquisitely delicious fare. We visited on a Sunday evening, and though the restaurant was bustling, the experience was nothing short of exceptional (I highly recommend booking in advance).
From the moment you step through the door, you are enveloped in an atmosphere that is both warm and inviting. The ambiance, thoughtfully designed interiors, and, most importantly, the food, all come together to create an unforgettable dining experience.
We indulged in their classic Fish and Chips, as well as the Chicken dish, which were both exceptional. However, the highlight of our evening was the catch of the day: a divine Devon Lobster, a dish that truly deserves a chef’s kiss. Not forgetting we wrapped up all of that with a Crème Brûlée.
The visionary behind Rockfish has curated not just a menu, but an entire experience, with every detail—from the artfully crafted menu to the beautifully arranged bathrooms—reflecting a deep love for the craft.
Our servers, Anette and Andy, epitomised what true service should be. Their warmth and attentiveness elevated our evening to something truly special.
To anyone reading this and contemplating a visit, I can’t recommend Rockfish highly enough. It’s a place that exceeds expectations, and one you’ll remember long after the...
Read moreI wish there were a Rockfish near / in London. I have tried them before in Brixham and I was happy to find one en-route in Poole during our recent trip. Their Gurnard (lightly charred / grilled) with lemon pickle butter was extremely delicious. The lemon pickle butter made the dish but the fish was cooked to perfection. Previously I have had the Dover Sole grilled in butter and that was delicious too however the lemon pickle was fab. This was what I originally went to Brixham for but it was sold out there by early evening dinner!
They have a good veggie burger option as well although it was missing something overall - perhaps a great relish running through bringing out the flavors. But thankfully they do not seem to have gone for a vegan premade patty. This was made inhouse which is always appreciated. The bottomless chips are great - you can eat as much as you want and it prevents wastage with small portions bought in each time - just so you know when to stop. They had a good selection of drinks and overall I would return here again just for the lovely seafood. The Poole restaurant has a lovely ambience and the service was lovely / with a smile always. They have a great kids kit to keep the kids entertained - my kid loves them.
A visit again to try Rockfish will...
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