For a very long time, Becketts stood as one of Southsea’s favourite go to restaurant, building a strong reputation. So, when Soraya and Jason Parker took over the pretty grade II building in 2016 on Bellevue Terrace, they didn’t quite realise the extent of the work they were going to do over the next two and a half years. The couple both fell in love with the idea of a modern eatery in a great location but what seemed like a small renovation turned into a huge project!
Jason is a property developer with large projects on the go, so he could see great potential in the renovation of Becketts. I popped in to chat to Soraya and over a cup of tea, she talked me through the business and work that had been carried out. Doing the refurbishment and interior design themselves meant that Jason and Soraya knew exactly what they wanted in each little nook and corner of the building. Halfway through the project, the house next door came up for sale which gave Jason and Soraya the opportunity to enhance the restaurant with bedrooms above so guests could stay and enjoy many more elements of Becketts than just an evening meal or after work drink.
Having been given a tour around, I loved the decor and focus of the interiors; offering an industrial, reclaimed style with an eclectic mix of materials downstairs. It is very on trend with encaustic tiles, mixture of wood (some pieces very distressed) and sandblasted walls which gives a relaxed and comfortable feel. Becketts boasts 4 floors with several dining areas, a private dining room and 6 boutique bedrooms upstairs – all uniquely designed. The attention to detail is clear from the bespoke lighting to the ambiance each room has whilst staying modern and fresh. My favourite is the largest room which I am calling the “green room” because it is all white with green touches, bringing the room to life in a natural and calm way. When you stand in this room you feel like the sea is right outside your window and you’re looking out from a beach house. There are rafters in a wonderful shape and a fabulous bespoke glass light in the centre of the ceiling, a huge focal point in the room. Being a light and airy space you feel instantly relaxed. All of the bathrooms for the rooms have also been thoughtfully designed, considering the best use of space and using a great mix of materials.
Chatting to Soraya about the future of Becketts she said they have supper clubs planned to create a relaxed setting for people to mingle, a singles night on the cards and are keeping the bottomless brunch on the menu, which has proved a huge success. While I was there Soraya greeted customers as long lost friends and spent time making sure everything was just right for arriving guests, showing passion and care for the restaurant and people visiting.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for cheeky Enzo, the four-legged boss. You’ll see plenty of him on their Instagram as well as specific bedrooms and areas of the bar being dog-friendly.
You can book a bedroom at Becketts by visiting the website and Southsea residents receive an extra 10% off, as seen in the new edition of Southsea Folk!
By Louise O’Brien
Room Photos – Becketts
Soraya and Enzo Photo – Carrie Lavers Photography
