Food review at Rocky Bottoms in West Runton in north Norfolk

The last time I visited was during the depths of the pandemic when all that was on the menu was a seafood picnic hamper. 

I raved about that and with good reason; it was showstopping-ly fantastic. 

As a result, I expected big things during take two. 

Not only does this eatery carry with it a great reputation, but it also comes with panoramic views of the north Norfolk coast’s big blue skies. 

Nestled between West Runton and Cromer, Rocky Bottoms can be found just off the A149, Cromer Road. 

It’s well sign-posted and is easy to find with its distinctive orange signage. 

My new husband and I arrived there on an unusually warm Monday in October, fresh from honeymooning. 

We had spent a week or so gorging on pasta and pizza, so it was a big ask expecting a dish superior to that. 

We shouldn’t have questioned it though as once again Costa del Norfolk provided us with a meal worth travelling around the globe for. 

While there wasn’t a specific starter menu, we agreed that the light bites section catered for this and ordered the fish cake (£11) and salt and pepper squid (£10) to share. 

The fish cake changes daily, and, on this occasion, we were presented with a hearty portion made up of salmon, crab and coriander served with sweet chili sauce. 

Handmade on site, it was filled with huge chunks of delicious smoked salmon encased in a wonderfully textured cake the size of my fist. This could have also been an option for a main meal (£21) and would have been a winning choice. 

The salt and pepper squid were also served with sweet chili sauce but was so tasty and moreish it almost seemed superfluous to include it – although it did not stop me from dunking! 

The coating was light and flavoursome and the squid was fresh and melted in the mouth. It was up there with the best fried squid I’ve ever had. 

With starters like that, we were excited for our mains – and they did not disappoint. 

I was served a gigantic piece of cod for my fish and chips (£21.50) which came dusted in a light and crispy beer batter without a hint of grease. This came with a ton of chips, sweet garden peas and tangy homemade tartare sauce. 

Unable to stay away from the lure of pasta, Mr W. opted for the crab linguine (£21.50). Served in a giant pasta bowl, this was a dish that defeated him but not before he got to enjoy the fresh Weybourne crab laced in garlic sauce and topped with fresh chili, lime, and mint. 

This dish was smooth and rich with the best of what Norfolk’s seas has to offer. 

Alas, neither of us could manage a pudding (all priced at £7 unless you’re ordering ice cream) but I could easily have gone for any of them. If pushed though, the Runton Mess made with homemade meringue, fresh cream, and local berries would have been my first choice.  

Setting   

One of the best you’ll find along the entire Norfolk coast. There is ample space within the grounds to sit inside or out. 

The building and its grounds have also been designed sensitively with its landscape and gives off a great modern and chic seaside vibe. 

Value      

Although the dishes appear expensive for what they are, they are plentiful, extremely fresh, and have been put together thoughtfully using the best ingredients. I can understand why they have the price tags they do. 

Drinks   

What you would expect. A decent wine list from £5.40 for a 125ml glass. The soft drinks included luxury brands Fever Tree (£3.69) and Fetimans (£4.10) as well as the usual suspects. I liked there was the summer favourite of orange juice and lemonade too (from £3.10). There were also lager and beers both draft and bottled. 

Accessibility      

There is blue badge car parking located at the front of the building. Various dietary requirements are offered too including dairy free and gluten free meals. 

Service  

This is a family-run business, and the staff really made us feel part of the furniture. They were polite, enthusiastic, friendly, and attentive. 

Rocky Bottoms applies a 12.5pc service charge to all bills which is divided by the staff.  

Service charges are optional and can be removed when paying your bill, this is noted on the menu and was also brought to our attention when we paid. 

Highlight      

As well as the outstanding location, it must be the food, particularly the fish and chips. Delicious! 

In summary     

Please note, this restaurant will close for the season on Sunday, October 29. So, get in there quick to savour the delights of Rocky Bottoms until next year. 

Disclaimer     

Our food reviews are always independent. They are the opinion of the reviewer based on their experience of the venue when they visited. The establishment is not aware of our visit, is not informed we intend to write a review and bills are paid by the reviewer. The choice of places reviewed is also independent and is not based on venues which do or do not advertise in our publications.   

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The Cricketers on The Green, Aldborough - Everything a country pub should be and more.