etch. by Steven Edwards in Hove has reopened following an extensive refurbishment which sees the former 32 cover restaurant transformed to a two-storey venue with capacity for 45 covers and a cocktail bar.
‘I couldn’t wait to reopen those doors’
Originally planned for September 2021, post-Steven’s residency at The Pass in South Lodge, etch. restaurant in Hove is now open to the public once again.
The redesign was led by architect Akram Fahmi from London Design House, a long time friend of Steven. Whilst Steven had not planned to update the restaurant for another few years, the opportunity to take over the building next door was too good to miss. The extension has enabled space for a reception area and downstairs cocktail bar – providing a richer experience for guests looking to enjoy a relaxed long lunch or make a full evening out.
Steven says: “Having lost almost a whole year of operation in 2020, we wouldn’t have chosen this year to close for a refurbishment but I’m so excited about the potential this new space gives us. It’s been a stressful few months but the design and build teams pulled out all the stops to have the building ready for guests ahead of the busy festive season. The etch. team are so excited to be back doing what they do best and I couldn’t wait to reopen those doors!”
The refurbishment has retained etch’s popular features, such as the open kitchen, private dining room and cosy booths with the additional treat of a standalone cocktail bar that will be open from November downstairs for pre-dinner drinks. Cocktails will be inspired by the creative minds of restaurant manager Sam Weatherhill and bar manager Beth Pogson.
Sustainability will be at the heart of the relaunched menu, with head chef George Boarer changing menus every week to avoid overusing ingredients and to use the best of local produce when it’s at its peak. Local and high-end wines will remain key to the guest experience with plans to open a temperature-controlled wine room in 2022. etch. will have a new look both inside and out with the exterior now painted black widow grey with the restaurant name removed and replaced by a subtle etched sign beside the main entrance. Inside, nature has inspired the interior themes with neutral and earthy tones set against black metal framings.
