THE ROYAL, ST. LEONARDS-ON-SEA

The Royal, a new pub and dining room in St Leonards-on-sea East Sussex, re-opens on 9th July serving a menu focusing on quality ingredient-led, seasonal cooking; a welcome addition to St Leonards-on-sea burgeoning hospitality scene.

Housed in a renovated 18th Century public house, The Royal is operated by James Hickson and Sam Coxhead, who previously worked together at much-loved Great Queen Street, The Canton Arms, and St John.

Chef Sam will be writing weekly menus based on the latest catch and what vegetables and fruits have sprung into season. The drinks list is elevated without being pretentious; diners can sip Crémant de Limoux or a Fleurie les Moriers.

Upon reopening, on 9th July, the menu will include dishes such as:

Fried baby artichokes, oregano and lemon £6

Mackerel escabeche and saffron aioli £7

Griddled squid, fennel, chilli, garlic and lemon

Baked wild sea trout, new potatoes, samphire, dill and mustard £15

Cuttlefish, black rice and prawns £16

Roast salt marsh lamb, calcot onions and romesco (for two) £34

Tart citron £5

Meringues, strawberries and cream £5

New to the offering is a lunch time take-away menu, perfect for the stones-throw walk to the beach for a picnic. Think sourdough focaccia sandwiches, wedges of tortilla and boxed salads.

James and Sam have rewritten the steps of service through the customer journey to ensure they are operating safely and adhering to government guidelines every step of the way. This includes removing 25% of tables and going reservation only. Book here.