Black Pearl - Hastings

Located in the heart of the historic Old Town, Black Pearl brings 'gastronomy and good times' to Hastings. It's a flexible set up on two levels: you can soak up the informal, animated atmosphere of the ground-floor brasserie or enjoy something a touch more sophisticated in the upstairs restaurant.

Seafood is the kitchen's main business and supplies are delivered daily from the local boats. Depending on the catch, you might find skate wing in garlic butter topped with chorizo and capers, grilled lemon sole with lemongrass butter or baked fillet of sea bass on crushed potatoes and spinach with dill butter; also don't miss the Black Pearl special - a classic lobster bisque with seasonal vegetables and saffron potatoes.

Meat eaters and vegetarians aren't neglected with alternatives ranging from slow-braised lamb shank in mint gravy to Haloumi kebabs with Mediterranean vegetables and couscous, while desserts could feature apple meringue pie or Italian-style bread-and-butter pudding made with biscotti, espresso coffee, Marsala and Mascarpone. Weekday lunches are unbeatable value.