Rockfish to take on Hix's The Oyster and Fish House site

The restaurant will be part of Rockfish’s expansion plans in the South West, which include opening a restaurant in Salcombe next spring that will also include a tap room by Salcombe Brewery, and a new restaurant in Sidmouth.

Hix announced the news on his Instagram page, saying: “As one door closes, another one opens…and I’m sure you will be as happy as I am to know that [Mitch Tonks] will be opening [a Rockfish] on the site of The Oyster and Fish House in the new year.

“I have been friends with Mitch for many years. We opened our restaurants in the South West around the same sort of time and have always had the same ethos; focusing on freshly caught fish, seasonal produce, and supporting the fishing community.

“Although I will be sad to see The Oyster & Fish House close next month, I do feel the time is right, and I cannot think of a better fit than Rockfish to take its place.”

Hix announced earlier this month ​​that he was closing The Oyster & Fish House on 7 December after 16 years of trading.

He adds that Rockfish co-founder Mitch Tonks will continue with the usual guest chef evenings held at the restaurant and says he expects to host one with him in the new year.

“I know that Mitch and his team are looking forward to seeing you all and continuing to serve the best of locally caught fish & seafood, and local seasonal ingredients.

“I think it will be a brilliant addition to the town, and I will be looking forward to dining there myself.”

Earlier this month Rockfish took home the Innovation Award at Restaurant’s​ R200 Awards​​ for its pioneering Virtual Fishmonger offer.

At the start of the year Rockfish said it was returning to the expansion trail​​ having completed a £3m fundraise. The group currently operates eight restaurants across the South West.