Aqua Eight is a super trendy restaurant (for Ipswich) with a really great Asian Fusion vibe. The bar downstairs is a great place to enjoy a couple of drinks before dinner and the modern decor is a good contrast to most of the other bars in Ipswich town centre. The forte' of the place is their food though -- they've won the "best in Suffolk" award in previous years. It's wonderful fare and their strength is definitely the set menus, which are four courses, extremely well matched, and really show off the strength of their kitchen. A favourite of mine is the soft shell crab, which is just a wonderful middle course done with a great preparation that just melts in your mouth. Every time I've been to Aqua Eight, the food has been superb.
The only negative to this place is the service. It's always been friendly, but attentiveness is not a strength. On just about each of my four visits, there was a point during the meal when I needed something, but had to struggle for the attention of a server. I think this is because they are serving so many courses, that they have trouble doing anything other than delivering food to tables!
Overall though, it's a small detraction from what is otherwise excellent food and an excellent atmosphere. If you find yourself in the Ipswich town centre, give it a try! read more