The Copper Clam, Brighton

Brighton Girl and I were invited along to try The Copper Clam last week, I have been dying to try this new seaside fish restaurant for a while and with the open kitchen out and wide windows, it is very inviting!

The Menu and Atmosphere

The restaurant itself is set out on two levels; the bottom being for the restaurant itself and the front of house/waiters to meet you. The seating is upstairs giving all of the tables a view of the beautiful sea (a little hidden by some construction works but a great view none the less) I was actually able to see both piers from my seat! There is also a beautiful bar on the upper level with designated bar staff and simple decoration. The entire restaurant is simple yet special; with exposed brick walls and the windows, the atmosphere is casual but inviting. 

The menu has a few sections to it; from starters to oysters, platters and main courses. There are options for all. The specials are presented on a board outside by the waiter told us to remind us as well. 

The Drinks

There was a full drinks menu, however, in the sun rays of Brighton beach both myself and Fanny opted for cocktails. Unfortunately, they do not have a cocktail menu yet so we were asked to pick whatever we wanted! Fanny went for a strawberry daiquiri and I went for the special; Brighton gin, grapefruit juice, elderflower and a pink peppercorn. 
Both cocktails were delicious and presented beautifully. 

The Food

For starters, I went for the pan-seared scallop with Gruyere and Pernod. Fanny chose the smoked burrata with garlic bread, but they had just run out, so changed to the tomato and goats cheese tart. 

The scallops were perfectly cooked with the bitter cheese contrast adding depth to the flavours, the fresh herb oil and leafs added texture. It was a light start to the meal.

The tart came with various tomato and a charred goats cheese topping; the pastry tart was less crumbly than ideal but together balanced perfectly. I especially loved the variation in the types of tomato used.

For the main, I went for the special which was pan seared monkfish served with charred asparagus and crispy parma ham. The fish was served in large pieces with a buttery outside and almost meaty inside. The delicate taste of the fish was not overpowered, but complimented by the crispy parma ham pieces. The charred asparagus added a crunch to the dish with the overall dish being large but not heavy.

Fanny went for the mushroom risotto; presented beautifully. A large portion but a creamy and rich taste and the taste of mushroom running throughout. The creamy texture combined with earthy mushroom complemented each other and again was not too heavy for the main course.

For dessert, unfortunately, the options were limited for Fanny who went for berries and cream whilst I opted for the peanut butter ice cream. Having been made in the restaurant the ice cream had an almost cream like texture with the bite of peanuts running through- the taste of peanut butter was strong and satisfying if not a little rich to end the meal with. I would definitely like to try one of the sundaes (to share) when I go back.

The Allergies 

In regards to the menu as a whole, there was a good selection of dishes for all tastes and allergies. We weren't at any point asked about allergies and when I asked about the brownies for Fanny they couldn't tell me for sure if they had nuts in; it is forever a struggle to find a nut-free dessert, however, a suggestion of alternative options would have been a great end to the meal.

I would also like to make a special mention to the staff at The Copper Clam. For a weekday night, it was a busy restaurant filled with a variety of characters however, they were professional and punctual with all areas of service. Our waiters were attentive and very accommodating to us and others!

Did you see my last review of Skyfall? Check it out here

All photography for this post was taken by the amazing photographer Fanny Beckman, you can contact her and check out her work here