Rafael Cagali to open Marea in Hove, blending Brazilian-Italian heritage with Sussex produce

Rafael Cagali, known for his two-Michelin starred London restaurant Da Terra, is opening a new venue, Marea, on Church Road in Hove, East Sussex this week. The venture is a collaboration with his long-time partner Charlie Lee and will be led in the kitchen by head chef Ewan Waller, offering a seasonal à la carte menu that draws on Cagali’s Brazilian-Italian heritage while showcasing British and Sussex produce.

The 38-cover restaurant aims to occupy a middle ground between the fine dining of Da Terra and the more relaxed atmosphere of Cagali and Lee’s other establishment, Elis. The menu has been designed to evolve with the seasons and reflects the chef’s international culinary training, with an emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing. The kitchen will work closely with regional farms, fisheries and artisanal producers to create dishes such as Fried Oyster, Hot Sauce Emulsion and Pumpkin Ravioli, Courgette, Jalapeño or Langoustine, Beans, Moqueca Stew. Desserts include Baba au Cachaça with Chantilly cream and a choux bun with fig leaf ice cream and Pedro Ximénez sherry. Guests can also opt for a Chef’s Selection tasting menu priced at £75.

The wine list features a mix of Old and New World producers, with a focus on terroir and balance. English wines from vineyards including Rathfinny and Langham are featured alongside natural and low-intervention options such as Domaine Bretaudeau from the Loire Valley. Cocktails and a central bar area are also part of the restaurant’s offering.

“Marea is a concept that truly excites me,” says Cagali. “It’s about bringing the highest quality ingredients and innovative techniques to a setting that feels welcoming and accessible. We want guests to experience exceptional food in a convivial atmosphere – a place where they can feel at home while exploring new flavours. Brighton and Hove truly excites me too – the town appreciates quality ingredients, and a healthy independent restaurant culture has grown in recent years. I’m ambitious with Marea – I want it to become one of the most highly respected and beloved in the region.”

Marea will welcoming patrons for dinner on Wednesdays, lunch and dinner from Thursday to Saturday, and lunch on Sundays, opening on Wednesday 10^th September.

Food Desk

To book a table at Marea, 60 Church Road, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 2FP, visit the restaurant’s website here.