Its really nice little restaurant. Id say its another hidden gem. Super friendly and patient staff for our party of 9. The service was great, and it felt like they took time over our food which came across because it was superb. I had the seabass which super tender and flavourful with calamari as a starter. The calamari was crisp and really well flavoured. One in our party was gluten free which was catered for, they said the pizza base was one of the best they'd had. I tried it and I must say considering its gluten free It was really very good. Id of been content had I ordered it. I will be returning!
Overview
Nestled in the heart of East Preston, Ristorante Al Mare at 2 The St, East Preston, Littlehampton BN16 1JJ, United Kingdom, offers a charming dining experience that feels like a home away from home. This hidden gem is a perfect blend of authentic Italian cuisine, a cozy atmosphere, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit spot for locals and travelers alike.
As you step into Ristorante Al Mare, you're immediately greeted by the rustic charm of its dΓ©cor. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with soft lighting and wooden accents that create a welcoming environment. It's the kind of place where you can sit back, relax, and truly enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Whether youβre there for a casual lunch or a special celebration, the restaurant's ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion.
One of the standout features of Ristorante Al Mare is its diverse and mouth-watering menu. From classic pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese to fresh seafood offerings, thereβs something to satisfy every palate. The seafood is especially noteworthy-each dish showcases the restaurant's commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. For instance, the seafood risotto is a fan favorite, combining tender shrimp, mussels, and clams with perfectly cooked rice and a light, flavorful sauce that keeps you coming back for more.
The pizzas at Ristorante Al Mare are another highlight. They are made from scratch with high-quality dough and topped with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The margherita pizza is a classic choice, with a crispy thin crust, melted mozzarella, and a deliciously tangy tomato sauce. For those looking to try something a little more adventurous, the seafood pizza, with its combination of prawns, anchovies, and mussels, is definitely worth considering.
But itβs not just about the food-Ristorante Al Mare excels in delivering exceptional service. The staff is attentive and friendly, always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions about the menu. Their genuine care for making each dining experience memorable is evident in every interaction.
If you're a fan of Italian wines, you're in for a treat. The restaurant boasts an impressive wine list featuring Italian wines from various regions, perfect for pairing with your meal. Whether you prefer a crisp white or a full-bodied red, the knowledgeable staff can help you select the ideal wine to complement your dish.
The dessert menu at Ristorante Al Mare is another reason to visit. Indulge in a rich tiramisu or a refreshing panna cotta, both of which are made with the same care and attention to detail as the savory dishes. For something a bit different, try the affogato-a scoop of vanilla gelato drenched in a shot of hot espresso. It's the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
What makes Ristorante Al Mare truly stand out, though, is the sense of community it fosters. The restaurant has become a local favorite, drawing people in with its friendly atmosphere and delicious offerings. Many regulars feel like part of the family, and the staff makes sure everyone feels welcome, whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth.
Located in the charming town of East Preston, Ristorante Al Mare is easily accessible for both locals and those visiting from nearby areas like Littlehampton. The restaurant is not just a place to eat, but a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy great food with friends and family.
With its welcoming atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and outstanding service, itβs no wonder that Ristorante Al Mare has garnered a loyal following. Whether youβre in the mood for a casual meal or a special night out, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience. Itβs the perfect spot to enjoy traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist, and itβs sure to become a staple in your dining rotation.
Good to know
Service options
β Outdoor seating β No-contact delivery β Delivery β Takeaway β Dine-inHighlights
β Great coffee β Great dessert β Great wine list β Live musicPopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Free water refills β Healthy options β Small plates β Spirits β Vegetarian options β WineDining options
β Lunch β Dinner β Catering β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β CosyCrowd
β Family friendly β Groups β LGBTQ+ friendly β Tourists β Transgender safe spacePlanning
β Lunch reservations recommended β Reservations required β Dinner reservations recommended β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parkingPets
β Dogs allowed β Dogs allowed insidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Outstanding lunch yesterday:) I enjoyed the calamari starter and lasagne main. Both generously portioned and delicious. My friend had crab pate and pizza, also highly rated. Service was unobtrusive and perfectly timed. Genuinely Italian home-made cooking. A really delightful hidden gem of a place :)
Valentines day 2023. The moment we opened the door to this very small family run restaurant we received a warm welcome. Friendly, happy, chatty and attentive staff. Table was set up beautifully with so much attention to detail. Menus rolled up into scrolls with red ribbon. Fab touch! They serve an imported Italian beer that was sooo nice. The food all looked amazing. fresh, hot, well presented and tasted as good Attention to detail on point. Thank you for a wonderful, romantic evening. Already got our next meal out at Restaurant al Mare booked.
Interesting menu and wines we tried the rabbit which is not widely available. Service was good althought kitchen did struggle with timings, which caused longer gaps between courses than ideal.
Had such a lovely meal there last night. My wife needs gluten free and their gluten free pizzas are amazing she says and they made her gluten free Calamari especially. The staff are so nice and helpful. Itβs a real gem!
Wow amazing! Many thanks to Roberto & the team. We had a fantastic array of pizzas & garlic bread some cheesy, for our East Peston youth football Club presentation. The pizzas & garlic bread were all made by hand & absolutely amazing! The kids & parents loved them & asked where they were from. Think many will now visit the restaurant to sample your other delights. Many thanks from all
The best place,cosy,quiet...food amazing...service spot on!!!!will be back if we around!;)highly recommended!would suit some old italian music...;)
Went for family lunch which was superb.tasty food well presented and lovely people serving. The restaurant wasn't busy so the atmosphere was a little flat however we were made welcome and everyone catered for, asked for a child's pizza without the Oregano also our vegetarian was well looked after. Hope to go again soon.