Leaving the pier
FAQ's
We’re crowdfunding to build Tern with the community, not just for it. Instead of going the traditional investor route, we’re inviting our future guests and supporters to be part of the story from the very beginning. This lets us stay independent, open debt-free, and focus on doing things properly
Tern will span two distinct levels. Upstairs: a light, minimal dining room with natural textures, warm tones, and an open kitchen that brings you close to the cooking. Downstairs: a darker, moodier cocktail bar with green tiles, eclectic art, and a New York loft-inspired feel. It’s a space designed for connection — whether you’re here for a long dinner or a late-night drink.
We’re opening in the heart of Worthing, West Sussex the town we love for its creative energy, sea air, and growing food scene. The split level venue includes a 28-cover restaurant, 24-cover bar, and eventually outdoor seating, all thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming, inspiring atmosphere.
Our menu is rooted in seasonality, simplicity, and great ingredients, led by British produce sticking strictly to our zero import policy. We’re staying with tasting menus in our dining space complete with open kitchen. Think thoughtful, confident cooking that’s both comforting and surprising. In the bar, expect a different offering. You’ve seen how we do brunch, so think along those lines! Expertly crafted cocktails, house infusions, small-batch spirits, and a drinks list that champions balance and flavour.
We are aiming to achieve match funding for the investment we already have towards the future of Tern.
- Kitchen fit-out and equipment
- Bar build and back-of-house systems
- Tables, chairs, lighting, textiles
- Signage and branding
- Local trades and creative collaborators
- Sound, tech, and operational infrastructure
- Launch costs and compliance
Your support helps us open strong, with care and craftsmanship in every detail. This funding ensures we can open without compromising – building something beautiful, functional, and lasting.
Because restaurants are about people, not just profit margins. Crowdfunding gives us the freedom to stay true to our values, while building a space shaped by the community that supports it.
We believe in hospitality with heart and integrity, and this is the most meaningful way to bring that vision to life. You’re not just backing a restaurant you’re helping build a place where people can gather, celebrate, and feel part of something real.
We’ve created a series of exclusive rewards, from opening night invites and first bookings, to limited-edition merch, private dinners, and long-term perks. Every tier is designed to give something special back, and to make you part of our story in a real and lasting way.
We’re aiming to open Early Autumn 2025 – though, like any independent build, there may be slight shifts. We’ll keep our supporters in the loop at every stage. Backers will be the first to hear updates and the first through the door when we’re ready.
Absolutely. Beyond pledging, the best thing you can do is spread the word. Share the campaign with friends, post on socials, send it to someone who’d love it – it really does help more than you might think.
While the Pier gave us the most incredible start, the basis of the set up was that it was never forever. Through our time at the pier we’ve grown beyond what the space will allow, and the time is right for us to take the next step. This isn’t the end, just a new beginning.
Not at all. We’re staying in Worthing, and we have exciting plans for our next chapter. We’ll be sharing more very soon — sign up to our newsletter [here] to be the first to hear.
Due to the nature of our menus we are only able to cater for Vegan, Vegetarian & some severe allergies / food intolerances with prior notice. If you have an allergy/intolerance or would like to request a Vegan, Vegetarian or Pescatarian menu please notify us via phone or email at the time of booking, & our team will be happy to create a bespoke menu for you.
Vegetarian & pescatarian menus cannot be guaranteed without prior arrangement of at least 48 hours before your reservation.
All bookings currently made for the Pier are still valid and will be honoured up until our final day of service there. If anything changes, we’ll contact you directly.
All valid gift vouchers will be honoured — no question. Whether it’s with us during our final days at the Pier, at a future pop-up, or at our new home (soon to be revealed), we’ve got you covered.
We’ll be announcing our final service dates and special events very soon. Keep an eye on our socials and newsletter for updates.
Yes! Tern is and will remain rooted here. We’re just shifting spaces, not towns.
We’ll be sharing details of our final Pier services and a few special events to mark the moment (and there may be a few surprises along the way too!)
Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to hear what’s coming. We’ll also keep sharing updates via Instagram and our website