Riddle and Finns, The Beach Brighton

When I was invited to head to Riddle and Finns I absolutely jumped at the chance. I have been to the Riddle and Finns branch in The Laines and had absolutely loved it but after walking past many times during a Brighton Beach Walk I was keen to go to the seafront branch. 

The Restaurant

Set just along from the beautiful west pier, the restaurant is in a perfect location, and if you are able to get a seat upstairs or outside, has the perfect view for fresh seafood. The interior is simple and yet cosy, with cave like walls and marble tables, dim lighting and softly playing music it is a beautiful interior. We were lucky enough to sit on the top floor next to the open window; a beautiful touch. 

The Food

There is a £1 charge per head for the fresh bread and sides that they bring out once you are seated. With a selection of bread accompanied with horseradish sauce, fresh garlic mayonnaise which was as smooth as butter and a smoked mackerel pate that I kept going back to; a great was to start the meal 
Henry and I both opted for the Pan fried Brighton scallops with Chorizo and chilli; presented in a scallop shell with a citrus dress salad on the side it was nothing short of divine. With perfectly cooked scallops perfectly balanced with smokey and spicy chorizo it was gone.. fairly fast. 

For main, I ordered a pan fried fillet of halibut. The halibut was citrus sharp on the outside with a soft and perfectly cooked inside, served alongside a creamy chive mash. The real star of the plate, however, was the additions; a perfect balance of earthy girolle mushrooms, sweet pearl onions with salty lardons and still crunchy croutons. A great balance of textures and flavours.

Henry went for the smoked Haddock dish. Served with a perfectly poached egg, a crisp of prosciutto and colcannon; a mash potato mixed with cabbage and seasoned perfectly. The accompanying champagne sauce was very rich and could have had a stronger taste of Champagne, but went well with the other elements of the dish. 

The Dessert

Not being able to decide between desserts we opted for the Riddle and Finns homemade dessert to share. This came with small versions of six dessert options; some of which were not included the overall menu. All being served at perfect sharing size and presented on a classic slate circle dish and garnished with a raspberry and passionfruit coulis. I cannot speak highly enough of the Key lime pie and the chocolate marquise; both were perfectly balanced in both flavour and texture and presented beautifully. 

The Allergies

In regard to allergies, they were exceptional; asking before we sat if we had an allergy requirements and offering specific menus to meet them. I particularly liked the touch of a gluten free and dairy free menu being offered as standard. 
When I informed them of my orange allergy, rather than depriving me of a pudding (their mixed fruit and Chantilly cream included orange zest) they instead created the additional brownie for me. All aspects of the dish were clearly stated and they were attentive to all needs. 

I would like to add a special mention to the service from all of the staff. They were attentive and personable; with a true Brightonion serving us you can't really go wrong!

I was invited to Riddle and Finns in exchange for a review, but all views are my own (or occasionally Henry's)