one9seven

one9seven'sethos is quite simple; modern, exciting food using produce sourced within 15 miles of the restaurant, "I look at Sussex as being my back garden," enthuses chef proprietor Stuart Ferguson, "with the English Channel simply a pond for my fish."
An award winning chef & journalist, Ferguson's background includes time spent in some of the world's best kitchens, being part of the team that set up The World's 50 Best Restaurant awards and being Group Executive Chef for London's acclaimed Vivat Bacchus restaurants.
He and wife Sue have opened a relaxed dining environment in a time when most restaurants are struggling to get bums on seats. "One of the most important lessons I have learned in the last eighteen months is value for money coupled with outstanding quality and service is paramount if a restaurant is to survive the current economic state."
With most starters coming in under £5, mains at under £16 and a set lunch at £11.95 for three courses there is no doubt that value for money has been achieved. But how about the quality? An "out of this world concoction" was how Viva Lewes described their Parmesan Custard Pots with Marmite Soldiers, one of a number of intriguing dishes that appear on the menu. Still Smoking Local Trout with Cucumber Jelly; Sous Vide Pork Cheeks, Cider Baked Beans, Pickled Radishes & Cider Air and Fizzy Rhubarb Eton Mess all sit proudly on this fun, contemporary menu.
"I have spent time with Heston Blumenthal & Ferran Adria, two of the world's greatest chefs, and draw inspiration from their almost conceptual cuisine styles, using elements of them to enhance our own dishes, but only in the name of fun."
one9seven is open all day long serving teas, coffee, breakfast, lunch & dinner coupled with a light snack menu that offers platters that are ideal meals for one or great to share with friends. "The beauty of the platters is that if large groups come in we can offer them a speedy grazing option to help soak up some fantastic wine", explains co-owner Sue. "one9seven is such a large, airy space that it is ideal for office parties, family get togethers or large formal dinners."
The large 70 seat restaurant offers free wi-fi, making it ideal for business meetings that can be followed by either breakfast, lunch or dinner and, seeing as there is no room hire, you could have a whole section cordoned off for your own use.
All in all, one9seven is a highly adaptable space that will ensure all of your dining needs are met, be they a slice of cake and a cup of tea, a wedding breakfast or business meeting for up to 60 people or a three course meal for two washed down with some fantastic wines. Etc. Magazine 2010