The chef, who originally launched Tern within the Southern Pavilion of Worthing Pier back in 2023, is aiming to raise a total of £130,000 to support the restaurant’s relocation to a new site in the centre of the seaside town.
Stanford’s vision is to relaunch Tern as a new concept split over two floors, with a 28-cover restaurant with fully open kitchen on the upper level and a dedicated cocktail bar below that will hold a further 24 covers.
“We’re seeking to expand into a larger venue that allows the full expression of our concept: a restaurant spread across two distinct but harmoniously connected levels, each with its own character and experience,” he says.
“This expansion comes from necessity, but is an absolutely huge opportunity to fully realising the identity of Tern, giving each part of the guest experience room to breathe, and creating a place that feels layered, lively, and loved.”
Stanford has already found a new site in Worthing, and is launching the crowdfund because ‘it needs a lot of work’.
The chef has secured half of the crowdfund total through investment, with the aim to raise the remaining £65,000 through a 30-day Crowdfunder that will launch on 1 July.
Stanford says the funds will be used to build a fully equipped commercial kitchen including extraction, install a dedicated cocktail bar, and ‘transform the venue into a true destination’ that’s ‘rooted in community and ready for the future’.
“Tern isn’t just a restaurant. It’s an ethos. A movement. A celebration of what’s possible when you put purpose before trend,” he says.
A range of rewards is being offered to those who support the crowdfund including exclusive dining experiences; invitations to preview nights and behind-the-scenes masterclasses; a spot on our ‘founders wall; and merchandise including aprons, t shirts and tote bags.
“Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference - and every supporter becomes part of something permanent,” Stanford adds.
Tern, which is described as ‘a love letter to British produce’ and ‘a celebration of sustainability’ holds two AA Rosettes and is listed in the Michelin Guide.
To view Tern’s Crowdfunder page, click here.