A Culinary Celebration: Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant Turns 50
Rick Stein, the celebrated TV chef and restaurateur, is turning back the clock to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his flagship Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, Cornwall. From February 6th to 9th, diners at select locations will be transported back to 1975, not just in ambiance but also in price. A specially curated menu will feature classic dishes at their original 1975 prices, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience culinary history firsthand. Imagine savoring grilled lobster for a mere £2.80 or indulging in a luxurious seafood thermidor for £2.20. Starters such as shellfish soup for 50p and chilled melon with brill for 30p promise a delightful throwback to a bygone era of dining. Desserts maintain the nostalgic theme with treacle tart and cream at 35p and raspberry bavarois at 30p, completing a truly remarkable and affordable dining experience.
The anniversary celebration extends beyond the flagship Padstow location, encompassing restaurants in Winchester, Marlborough, Sandbanks, and Barnes. This allows a wider audience to partake in the festivities and experience the culinary journey that Rick Stein has crafted over five decades. The limited-time offer is not just a culinary experience; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the restaurant’s loyal patrons, the dedicated team, and the invaluable suppliers who have contributed to its success. Rick and his wife Jill, who co-founded the restaurant in 1975, express profound gratitude for the support that has allowed their small venture to flourish into a culinary empire encompassing ten restaurants, a pub, a cookery school, guest accommodations, and four shops.
The growth of the Stein empire is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and their passion for seafood. From humble beginnings in Padstow, they have built a family-run business that continues to thrive, now with the involvement of their sons Jack, Charlie, and Ed. The 50th-anniversary celebration is a moment of reflection and appreciation, acknowledging the journey and looking forward to the future. The nostalgic pricing is more than just a marketing ploy; it is a genuine expression of gratitude to those who have supported The Seafood Restaurant throughout its remarkable history.
To further enhance the celebratory spirit, 25 tables across the participating restaurants will be reserved for community nominations. This initiative provides an opportunity for individuals to nominate deserving members of their community to enjoy the discounted lunch, extending the anniversary celebrations to those who might not otherwise have the chance to participate. This act of generosity underscores the Stein family’s commitment to giving back and sharing their success with the wider community.
The discounted menu, while offering a glimpse into the past, does not extend to beverages. Drinks, including wine and cocktails, will remain at their current 2025 prices. This distinction highlights the focus on showcasing the culinary heritage of the restaurant while acknowledging the current economic landscape. The celebratory events continue beyond the four-day throwback menu. A special one-night-only Supper Club is planned for later in the month, promising an exclusive and unforgettable dining experience. Adding a personal touch to the festivities, Rick will return to his roots as a DJ, spinning tunes for one night only at the Purple Tiger decks.
The 50th-anniversary celebrations are a testament to The Seafood Restaurant’s enduring legacy. It’s a remarkable achievement in the volatile restaurant industry, and the planned events reflect the significance of this milestone. From the nostalgic pricing to the community nominations and the special Supper Club, the celebrations are designed to be inclusive and memorable, honoring the past while embracing the future. It’s a golden opportunity for both long-time patrons and new diners to experience the magic that has made The Seafood Restaurant an iconic destination for half a century.
The meticulous menu planning for this anniversary celebration demonstrates a thoughtful approach to revisiting culinary history. The selection of dishes represents classic favorites and signature creations from the restaurant’s early days. The shellfish soup, a staple of coastal cuisine, offers a comforting and flavorful start to the meal. The chilled melon and brill, a light and refreshing dish, showcases the delicate flavors of fresh seafood. The salmon and sorrel terrine, a more sophisticated starter, highlights the culinary expertise that has become synonymous with The Seafood Restaurant. The main courses are equally impressive, with the grilled lobster as the centerpiece of the celebration. The seafood thermidor, a rich and decadent dish, and the Cornish bouillabaisse, a hearty and flavorful fish stew, offer further examples of the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation. The desserts, treacle tart and cream, and raspberry bavarois, complete the nostalgic journey with classic sweet treats that evoke memories of simpler times. This carefully curated menu is a testament to the culinary vision of Rick Stein and his team, offering a unique and affordable opportunity to experience the culinary heritage of The Seafood Restaurant.
