In the heart of Hastings Old Town, The Crown is the place for hearty, modern British food made with locally sourced, fresh, seasonal ingredients. Found at the foot of the country park and a stones throw away from the beach, this independently run eatery provides the perfect pit stop for any day out.
On a cold day, you can join the team for a hot drink provided by local companies. The coffee comes from Hastings itself, courtesy of Roar Gill roastery, and loose leaf tea comes from Proper Tea Co in Pett.
Keeping with the celebration of local talent, the venue plays hosts to an ever-changing exhibition of art and photography on its walls, showcasing local artists and giving the place a homely feel.
In terms of the food, the menu offers a range of bar snacks which are perfectly paired with the locally-brewed beers and ciders.
For dinner, the menu focuses on provenance, using ingredients from the coast and local farms, however it is still an eclectic offering suitable for all tastes. A broccoli and blue cheese soup is elevated with blue cheese fried dumplings; while locally-sourced vegetables are transformed in a dish featuring a Chinese-style steamed bun.
Moving on to mains, the fish option is a unique cod, monkfish, and sea trout kofta served with a punchy garlic and refreshing mint yoghurt. The kitchen certainly shows its talent in a main of venison - rolled and stuffed, the venison is wrapped in bacon and served with roast potatoes, and a rich gravy to match.
Taking the same locally-sourced blue cheese as featured in the starters, the chef's combine it with a warming, spiced loaf and an indulgent brandy butter. Other unique options include crispy apple fritters, drizzled with caramel as well as scoops of blackcurrant and a toffee hazlenut ice cream.