“The best new restaurant on the block”, says a fan of The Parson’s Table – a “delightful” neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of historic Arundel. Chef/co-owner Lee Parsons worked in plenty of big kitchens (including Belmond Le Manoir Aux Quat’ Saisons) before bringing it all back home, and the result is “exciting food in a delightful setting” complete with blond wood, filament light bulbs and local prints on the dining room’s white walls – all very contemporary. Bright, clear flavours shine through in vibrant dishes ranging from grilled Cornish sardines with shaved fennel, tomato, saffron and olive or Sussex cod with roasted corn ragoût, creamed celeriac and crab ravioli to quail and pistachio terrine or roast pork fillet and ham croquette with grain-mustard potato purée, savoy cabbage and cider sauce. Desserts such as dark chocolate and hazelnut tart with salted caramel ice cream also show a touch of class. “Good-value” set lunches, great service and decently priced wines complete the package.