Michelin-starred chef announces new restaurant venture in Hove

Rafael Cagali, A two Michelin-starred chef has announced he is opening a new restaurant in Brighton and Hove.

Rafael was born in São Paulo, Brazil, though he is of Italian descent. He moved to London to work in kitchens aged 21, followed by a 3-year bout working with Stefano Baiocco at A Villa Feltrinelli.

The chef opened Da Terra in 2019 in partnership with Paulo Airuadi, who he met at The Fat Duck, and the restaurant gained its first Michelin star that same year.

He also owns Elis, a more casual restaurant in Bethnal Green Town Hall.

Now, Rafael is extending his portfolio to Hove to open Marea.

According to Restaurant Online, Marea will feature small bites, hot and cold plates, sharing dishes and desserts.

Rafael said: " "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

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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, which translates to Tide in Italian, will replace the former restaurant El Bolillo owned by Greg Clarke and Matty Salvetti.

El Bolillo announced its sudden closure in March earlier this year.

When announcing its closure, El Bolillo hinted that something new was in the works.

In a statement on the website, it read: “We regret to inform you that the difficult decision to close El Bolillo permanently has been taken.

“Apologies for the short notice and for any convenience this may cause.

“This closure is part of a strategic decision to introduce an exciting new dining concept on the same site, maintaining the same high levels of creativity and execution.

"Our goal is to launch the new concept in time for summer and we look forward to sharing more details with you soon."

Marea will belocated on 60 Church Road, Central Brighton, Brighton and Hove BN3 2FP. An opening date is yet to be announced.

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