Mitch Tonks to take over Mark Hix’s Oyster and Fish House

Mitch Tonks will be opening a Rockfish restaurant on the former site of Mark Hix’s Oyster and Fish House in Lyme Regis.

It comes after Hix confirmed he will be closing his restaurant next month after 16 years of trading.

Announcing the news of Tonks’ takeover on Instagram, Hix said: “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.

“Mitch will be continuing with the usual guest chef evenings, so you can expect to see me hosting one with him in the new year!

“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 added his team will now work for the new Rockfish restaurant.

Tonks opened the first Rockfish restaurant in Dartmouth in 2010 and has since expanded his portfolio to nine sites, including in Plymouth, Exeter, Torquay and Weymouth.

The 2022 Restaurateur of the Year – Group Catey award winner continues to work with local colleges and operates a fresh fish counter in Brixham next to the port.