A Michelin-standard chef who worked under Gordon Ramsay is to take the reins at a seaside restaurant.

Josh Deacon has been appointed executive chef for Rockwater and will take control of the kitchen on Hove seafront.

Josh, who has 12 years of experience as a classically trained chef, says he has a “passion for championing local producers” and wants to create a “delicious, seasonally driven menu”.

He said: “I have a passion for championing local producers and believe in using the best ingredients to create delicious, seasonally driven menus.

“Rockwater is set in the most spectacular location with the sea just a stone’s throw away and this presents incredible opportunities for me and my kitchen team to create a destination dining experience.

The Argus: Rockwater in HoveRockwater in Hove

“I’m excited for this new chapter in my career which brings me out of the city and to the south coast. The business boasts an amazing amount of potential, and the sky is the limit for what we can do, we’ll constantly be striving for absolute excellence.”

Josh previously worked as executive head chef at The Stratford Hotel in London and worked at a number of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants including The Savoy Grill and Maze.

He will also take over the kitchen at other Rockwater sites including in Poole and Sandbanks.


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It comes as Rockwater also launches a new Spring menu which will feature in the bar, kitchen and roof terrace in Hove.

The new menu includes whipped salt cod, crab linguine and roasted harissa aubergine, among other dishes.

Luke Davis, founder of Rockwater, said: “It’s great to welcome Josh to the Rockwater family as Group Executive Chef. His extensive experience will further enhance the dining offerings across our venues, and we look forward to the culinary journey ahead under his guidance.”

Rockwater first opened in December 2020 and now hosts a rooftop terrace as well as bar and kitchen areas.

The food menu is half-price on Mondays and Tuesdays in April.