The restaurant, which originally launched within the Southern Pavilion of Worthing Pier back in 2023, is now in overfunding and at the time of writing has raised £68,465 from 195 supporters with 28 days still to run on the campaign.
Led by chef Johnny Stanford, Tern revealed last month that it was launching a crowdfund to support its relocation to a new, larger site in the centre of the seaside town.
In total, the restaurant’s aim was to raise £130,000, with half of the total secured ahead of the crowdfund through investment.
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 said.
“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 added that 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, 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.