Village Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton
01273 819200

Review: July 14, 2006

Built by former boxer and businessman George Walker in the mid-Eighties for his daughter, Aqua is an impressive building to behold.

"It knocks your eyes out," says co-owner Paul Nicholson.

Paul and his business partner Danny Coom, both former builders, describe their new acquisition, as "mesmerising" - although the venture itself has been a huge challenge.

"We are both Brighton boys, new to the restaurant business but we are finding our feet," says Paul. "We have had a lot of support and have got a fantastic team together.

"I don't think many people know about us yet as we are a bit hidden away in the marina, but I hope when people discover us they will be pleasantly surprised."

With wonderful views of the water from every window, outside seating and stunning Italian murals on the ceiling of the atrium, Aqua has a fresh, Mediterranean feel about it.

"In a way, we have got two businesses on one footprint," says Paul. "There is the cocktail bar downstairs with DJs every Friday and Saturday night playing hits from the Seventies to the Nineties.

"Upstairs in the restaurant we can accommodate up to 150 people."

When they took on the venue, Paul and Danny set to work and completely transformed it.

The murals, which had previously been covered up, were a real find. "They were commissioned by George Walker and painted in situ by Italian artists," says Paul.

"It cost a fortune. I believe it set him back about £15,000, which of course was a lot of money 20 years ago. We were stunned when we discovered them, they are wonderful, a real eye opener."

Food is all freshly prepared on the premises by former Tin Drum chef, Lawrence Tallent.

His menu marries modern European dishes with an extensive range of new and old world wines. A varied children's menu is also available (£4.95 including ice cream).

Aqua are currently offering a special deal of two courses for £10.95 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Review by Xenia Gregoriadis

If you are interested in restaurants in Brighton, Hove and Sussex, visit www.theargusfoodguide.co.uk