Fabulous late lunch with a view! We were visiting UWE for their open day with our teenage son and wanted to have a spot of late lunch somewhere near the water, I found SeaRock on Tripadvisor and thought we'd take a look. Parking at Portishead Marina was easy with plenty of spaces in the road outside. A quick walk across the lock gate and we were there! The restaurant was about half full and it was a beautiful sunny day with all of the outside tables occupied.There was a pleasant atmosphere and everyone seemed to be enjoying the sunny day. Once inside, we were greeted warmly and offered the choice of siting anywhere.
The menu offered a great variety of dishes and there was also a 'specials' board with more choice. My wife and I chose the fish and chips whilst our son chose the squid starter and their cheeseburger for mains. The starter arrived within a few minutes and although when ordering we thought it seemed quite expensive, the portion was very large and easily enough for two. It was perfectly cooked and served with a fresh salad, a big lemon wedge and sauce. Both thoroughly enjoyed it whilst gazing out over the lovely boats in the marina.
The mains soon arrived and again, portions were generous and everything was beautifully presented on the plate. The fish and batter wasn't greasy at all and the chips were crispy and delicious. My son was particularly impressed with the cheeseburger as it was moist and cooked just right, served in a brioche bun with chips and a tasty salad. Also noted was the Heinz ketchup and Hellmans mayonnaise and tartare sauce in little bottles - much classier than fumbling with tiny sachets of watery cash & carry own-brand stuff!
The staff and service were particularly friendly and it was a pleasure to find a restaurant in a marina that isn't part of a chain and where the owners and staff genuinely care about your experience.
We didn't try a dessert although on the way out past the selection of ice creams I did regret my decision!
It cost just under £70 for the three of us which isn't exactly cheap but for the marina view, the quality of the food and the friendly service it was well worth it and it's certainly no more expensive than any marina restaurants I've visited on the South coast where I do my boating from.
I'd certainly recommend SeaRock to anyone visiting Bristol / Portishead and wish the restaurant every success...
Read moreNestled snugly between the lively Siren's Calling pub and the chic Mokoko café, SeaRock Restaurant in Portishead marina enjoys a prime location that would make even the fussiest seagull green with envy. On a sunny summer’s day, the marina sparkles, the windows of SeaRock fold back to let in the salty breeze, and there’s a cheerful buzz as diners choose between quay-side seating and indoor tables with views of the water. So far, so idyllic.
But here’s the rub: SeaRock suffers from something of an identity crisis. Is it a sit-down restaurant? A casual takeaway? It tries to be both, and therein lies the problem. Picture this: you’re sitting down to a nice meal, the sun glinting off the marina, and all of a sudden, you're surrounded by a small crowd of people waiting for their takeout orders. It's a bit like dining in the middle of a busy bus station – not exactly the relaxing waterfront experience you might have envisioned.
Now, onto the food. As is customary for any self-respecting Brit reviewing a seaside eatery, I opted for the fish and chips. SeaRock offers this staple in three sizes: small (one bit of fish), medium (one and a half bits), and large (two bits). While this “bit” system might sound bizarre, it’s actually quite practical, offering just the right portion size to match one’s hunger.
The fish itself was commendable: crisp, golden batter encasing succulent, flaky white fish. The chips were decent, though perhaps lacking that perfect balance of crunch and fluffiness that makes you dream of your next seaside visit. The real star, however, was the specials board – an array of enticing dishes that suggest SeaRock's kitchen has more than a few culinary tricks up its sleeve.
Service was friendly, if a bit harried. The staff did their best to juggle the demands of sit-down diners and takeaway patrons, and a sunny...
Read moreSea Rock Restaurant in Portishead offers a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements its beautiful marina setting. During my recent visit, I was thoroughly impressed by the captivating view, impeccable service, and the restaurant's range of light and delectable options.
The standout feature of Sea Rock Restaurant is undoubtedly its stunning view of the marina. Whether you're seated indoors by the large windows or on the outdoor terrace, you're treated to a breathtaking sight of sailboats and tranquil waters. It's a backdrop that enhances the dining experience, making it both visually pleasing and relaxing.
The service at Sea Rock is equally impressive. The staff is attentive, friendly, and eager to make your visit memorable. They are knowledgeable about the menu, provide timely recommendations, and ensure that your dining needs are well taken care of.
One of the restaurant's strengths is its selection of light options. From fresh salads to seafood dishes, there are plenty of choices for those looking for a healthier or lighter meal. The ingredients are fresh, and the flavors are expertly balanced, making for a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.
In conclusion, Sea Rock Restaurant is a gem in Portishead, offering a beautiful view of the marina, top-notch service, and a menu filled with delicious and light options. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner with a view or a relaxing lunch, this restaurant checks all the boxes for a memorable dining experience. I can't wait to return and savor more of their...
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