36 on the Quay

Set smack beside the small cobbled quayside & old cottages overlooking the harbour, this 17th-century building comes with a surprisingly modish interior – the dining room’s navy blue and neutral tones enlivened by comfortable chairs and stiff white napery. The setting suits the restaurant’s confident, contemporary cooking which puts the emphasis on a simple, healthy, flavour-based repertoire, and its innovative menus are defined by seasonal ingredients, precise flavours & flawless combinations, with the occasional nod to Scandinavia – owner-chef Gary Pearce did a stint at Noma in Denmark as well as Oaxen Krog in Sweden. As befits the coastal setting, fish plays its part – think halibut, turbot or seared tuna loin – but you’re just as likely to find the likes of new season lamb, braised beef with barbecued cep or Welsh wagyu sirloin, all with gorgeously presented and tasty accompaniments. These might be book-ended with seared Orkney scallops to start and desserts that you would never find at home. Simple but stylish rooms provide a further reason to visit.

36 on the Quay is an independent restaurant offering relaxed fine dining and adventurous modern menus with quayside views. It's a family-run spot, led by Gary and Martyna Pearce in the town of Emsworth on the Hampshire coast. Think fine dining hallmarks like crisp white linen and intricate plates, but with a friendly and informal atmosphere.

Located inside a 17th-century grade II-listed cottage, the dining room is decorated in pastel shades and luxurious deep blues that emulate the views over Emsworth Harbour. The low ceilings and well-spaced tables lend the space an intimate ambience complemented by attentive but unobtrusive service and a precise menu. The menu at 36 on the Quay is broadly modern European in style, however, given that Gary Pearce spent part of his career at Noma, Scandinavian influences frequently crop up - along with the occasional Asian inspiration.

You might begin with a barbecue beef rib served with veal sweetbread and miso puree; chicken and duck liver galantine with a roast chicken broth and mushrooms; or perhaps a dish of Cornish crab meat with radish, creme fraiche, and a Thai dressing. As for mains, think local fish of the day with Jersey Royals, watercress and shrimp, and land options like Australian wagyu sirloin served with leek, smoked mushroom and burnt apple puree. The desserts are particularly playful, offering a Mai Tai and coconut panna cotta, a black fig cheesecake with amaretto and burnt honey, and a signature ‘36’s chocolate kiss’ with hazelnut and caramel.

36 on the Quay also offers an eight-course tasting menu and accompanying wine pairing, along with set menus that are available for both lunch and dinner. The wine list is similarly well thought out, covering over 250 bottles showcasing different styles and regions, you’re bound to find something even for the most picky diner.