The arrival of Rockfish in Sidmouth feels like a natural fit for the South West multi site, that now has 11 restaurants along the coast, plus their Budleigh cafe.

Having attended previous openings, met Mitch a few times, and even visited the Brixham Fish Market for a tour, we’ve followed the Rockfish story from the early days and dined with them many times at various sites, hosted and paid for. We were delighted to be invited to experience their latest opening. [Ad- Invited]

The Location

A regency seaside town, Sidmouth is framed by red cliffs and the sea, it has an unshowy confidence and a strong sense of identity.

Independent cafés, bakeries and restaurants (with minimal chains) sit comfortably alongside its historic architecture, and there’s a clear appreciation here for quality, provenance and businesses that feel rooted in the community.

Some may see Rockfish as a bigger fish and a competitor risk, but I believe they really do have a place here, adding to people’s dining choices and the fact they have invested heavily to transform an empty disused seafront space and revitalised it for the future. This is their 11th restaurant and took a painstaking 6 years to come to fruition.

Rockfish Sidmouth is situated at the east end of the seafront, near the River Sid and The Ham, and is a perfect pitstop before or after a seaside stroll.

The interior space

Set inside the town’s former drill hall, the space has the feel of an old fish market or hall – high ceilings, industrial and soft lighting, exposed brickwork, beautiful arches, and plenty of retained character with a fresh touch. Thoughtful details, from tiled finishes to illustrations, give a nod to Sidmouth’s iconic features and coastal setting.

What is lacking by way of sea views is certainly replaced by an internal sense of place and story.

As the building fills with diners, a lovely buzz builds. It’s lively without being overwhelming, helped by well‑considered lighting and windows dressed with half curtains – the sort you’d see in a good French restaurant or a relaxed Italian trattoria.

Despite the scale of the building, it feels warm and welcoming, bolstered by the wood burner at one end and added interest of the open kitchen at the other.

Rockfish may now be a familiar name across the South West, but it remains very much an owner‑led business rather than a faceless chain. Founded by Mitch Tonks, the focus has always been on responsibly sourced fish, strong relationships with fishermen and their own fleet, and keeping things rooted in the region. That ethos comes through clearly here.

Food and drink

We started with fried calamari and prawns and the haddock and bacon chowder. Their calamari is always cuttlefish – meatier and more tender – and it was perfectly cooked, with a light, crisp coating and plenty of flavour and a sweet chilli dip for zing.

The haddock and bacon chowder being enjoyed opposite me was exactly what you’d hope for. Thick, smoky and deeply comforting, it was a proper hug in a mug. The smoked haddock, traditionally smoked in Grimsby at Alfred Enderby (over 100 years expert experience in smoked fish), delivered real depth of flavour, balanced beautifully by the bacon.

The main menu offers a reassuring mix of Rockfish staples alongside fish that changes depending on the day’s catch.

Everything is prepped in Brixham and delivered fresh to the restaurants, keeping a close link to the fishing industry thanks to Rockfish’s fleet of boats landing at world renowned Brixham Fish Market, just below their upstairs restaurant there.

Their motto sums it up neatly: “Tomorrow’s fish are still in the sea.”

For mains, my son chose John Dory – an experienced fish eater, but his first time trying this catch – and it was a winner. Served on the bone, the flesh was meaty yet delicate, and he absolutely loved it. I opted for the hake fillet, simply grilled and cooked perfectly, letting the quality of the fish shine. I opted for some aoili and a side of spinach as well. Rockfish offer unlimited chips, so don’t be shy!

Despite being content, dessert was non‑negotiable here.After a savoury meal, our palates wanted a sugar hit – and they delivered. Sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream and their tarte tatin with Madagascan vanilla gelato hit the nail on the head. For me, the tart tatin is excellent and not something you see often when eating out – sweet, sticky caramilised apples and beautifully made pastry – well worth the 20 minute wait. I always opt for this when dining at Rockish.

The Verdict

Rockfish Sidmouth brings together a striking space, their ethos of sustainably sourced fish and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, plus they are known for being dog and family friendly too!

It’s a great addition to the town, and one we’d happily return to, especially as they’ll soon have Salcombe Brewery bar opening on their site with alfresco seating, with those cliff and sea views over the curved wall.

We love that Rockfish has special offers occasionally, including their £10 fish and chips dine-in offer and an excellent priced 2 course seasonal set menu. If you’re unable to make it to the South West to enjoy their fresh fish and hospitality, did you know you can order prepared fish online, delivered to your door? Their flavoured butters are epic too (love the bearnaise!) and they have a great selection of preserved tinned fish. A great option for a home dinner party, or perhaps to your holiday home anywhere in the country!

Rockfish Sidmouth, The Esplanade, Sidmouth, EX10 8BE

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