Best Restaurants In Brighton: An Ultimate Food Lover’s Guide

Best Restaurants In Brighton: An Ultimate Food Lover’s Guide

From acclaimed fine dining to charming brunch spots, Brighton’s culinary scene is bursting with flavour and memorable experiences for everyone. This guide highlights some of the city’s most beloved eateries, from seaside seafood specialists to cosy romantic hideaways and vibrant international kitchens, helping you find your perfect dining spot.

Craving a hearty full English, a creative plant-based brunch, fresh seafood, or an intimate tasting menu by the sea? You’ll find tips, neighbourhood gems, and booking advice to make every meal in Brighton truly special. We’ll dive into local favourites, Michelin Guide recognised establishments, essential brunch rituals, fresh seafood options, romantic seaside dinners, diverse global cuisines, and exciting food events. Plus, get expert tips on choosing the right place for any occasion and join our community for more Brighton food discoveries.

Please note: Information regarding restaurant details, prices, and specific menu items is subject to change. We recommend checking with individual establishments for the most current information, including opening hours, booking policies, and dietary options. Award recognitions and Michelin Guide distinctions are accurate at the time of publication but may evolve.

Highly-Rated Restaurants in Brighton

Brighton’s highly-rated restaurants earn their reputation through community love, consistently excellent food, and truly memorable dining experiences. These places often shine with their unique atmosphere, signature dishes, and local endorsements, making them must-visit spots for locals and visitors alike. Here’s a look at three notable venues often celebrated in local polls and recognised in awards.

Restaurant	What Makes It Special	Price Point (per person) (approx.)
Burnt Orange	Seasonal Modern British Flavours	£20–£30
Terre à Terre	Inventive Vegetarian Creations	£18–£25
The Gingerman	Contemporary European Flair	£25–£40+

These restaurants are known for combining innovative menus with quality service and a connection to Brighton’s vibrant food culture. Exploring why locals and some award judges favour them offers insight into Brighton’s dining scene.

Local Favourites in Brighton

Locals often cherish authenticity, a sense of community, and consistent quality when picking their go-to spots.

Café Coho is a popular choice for its single-origin coffees and satisfying brunch dishes. Starfish & Coffee is well-regarded for its all-day breakfast and warm, welcoming vibe. The Walrus pub in North Laine offers a winning mix of classic pub fare and an impressive craft beer selection. Residents often appreciate these places for their reliable tastes and comforting familiarity.

Brighton’s Recognised Culinary Establishments

Local awards, such as the BRAVO Awards, celebrate eateries across various categories. Recent recognitions include:

• Burnt Orange was recognised as Best Restaurant overall in the BRAVO Awards, noted for its sophisticated Modern British dishes.
• Oeuf Café was awarded Best Brunch in the BRAVO Awards, praised for its playful presentation and premium free-range eggs.
• Riddle & Finns is a highly-regarded seafood restaurant, known for its commitment to sourcing fresh shellfish.

These recognitions highlight excellence in food, service, and atmosphere. Exploring the criteria behind such awards can help you pinpoint notable dining experiences.

Brighton’s Michelin Guide Recognised Establishments

Brighton features several establishments recognised by the Michelin Guide, including those with Bib Gourmand listings and Green Star acknowledgements. Notable mentions include:

• Etch. by Steven Edwards (celebrated for its imaginative tasting menus and elegant presentation, holding a Michelin Star).
• Furna (acclaimed for authentic Portuguese seafood and superb wine pairings, recognised with a Bib Gourmand).
• Dilsk (honoured for its contemporary Indian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, recognised with a Bib Gourmand).

Finding these establishments across Brighton and Hove highlights the city’s presence on the regional gourmet map and shows how Michelin standards are reflected in local culinary offerings.

An Analysis of British Michelin-Starred Restaurants and Patron ReviewsPurposeThis study seeks to explore patron perspectives and the underlying factors influencing luxury consumption within British Michelin-starred restaurants. While numerous studies have investigated consumer purchasing behaviour for luxury goods, there is limited research focusing on the utilisationAn analysis of British Michelin-starred restaurants: guests’ online reviews, MB Saydam, 2023

Popular Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in Brighton

Brighton’s morning and brunch scene offers a vibrant mix of classic fry-ups, innovative plant-based options, and delightful brunch cocktails. From traditional cafés to quirky hidden gems, the city caters to every breakfast craving and dietary need. Here’s a rundown of some distinct morning experiences and where to find them.

Popular Spots for a Traditional Full English Breakfast in Brighton

A classic full English breakfast, featuring eggs, bacon, sausages, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast, can be the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

• Moksha Café – Known for serving free-range eggs and artisan sausages alongside freshly baked sourdough.
• Macs Cafe – Popular for its generous portions and classic coffee.
• The Breakfast Club – Offers a fun retro diner vibe and hearty fry-ups.

These places capture the comforting essence of a traditional fry-up, leaving you energised and ready to discover Brighton’s many attractions.

Brighton Cafes Offering Vegan and Vegetarian Brunch

Plant-based brunch in Brighton often showcases creativity and flavour. Some popular vegan-friendly cafés include:

• Terre à Terre – A well-regarded vegetarian restaurant, offering gourmet plant-based brunch dishes.
• Food for Friends – Offers imaginative vegan plates and artisan juices in The Lanes.
• The Cosy Club – Features a vegan Benedict and avocado toast on their own freshly baked bread.

These cafés often highlight seasonal produce and inventive flavour combinations, ensuring even non-vegans will be impressed by the hearty, delicious options.

Where to Find Bottomless Brunch in Brighton

Bottomless brunch offers an indulgent combination of unlimited drinks and delicious brunch dishes for a relaxed, social affair. Popular spots for this experience include:

• The Grand Brighton – Offers unlimited prosecco and seasonal brunch plates for a set price.
• Purezza – Offers brunch pizzas paired with bottomless mocktails or spritzes.
• No. 32 Duke Street – Offers a daytime spread of small plates and free-flowing fizz.

These venues combine lively atmospheres with generous drink policies, perfect for celebrating with friends or simply catching up.

Brighton’s Popular Pancake and Coffee Shops

Pancake stacks and speciality coffee are popular offerings in Brighton’s café scene. Here are some notable pairings:

Café	Signature Pancake	Coffee Style	Price Point (per dish) (approx.)
Bills	Ricotta and lemon zest	Single-origin drip	£10–£15
The Flour Pot Bakery	American buttermilk	Espresso-based	£5–£10
Café Coho	Sweet potato stack	Milk latte art	£8–£14

With a focus on quality beans and freshly made batter, these cafés can offer a delightful start to your day before you head out to explore the seafront. If you want to know more about the best places for coffee, check out our blog on the Best Cafes in Brighton!

Brighton’s Notable Seafood Restaurants

As a coastal city, Brighton offers a variety of fresh catches, with maritime heritage often reflected in its menus. Seafood dining here ranges from casual fish and chips to sophisticated oyster bars, with many establishments focusing on fresh and seasonal variety. Understanding Brighton’s seafood offerings can help you choose a suitable spot for your culinary adventure.

Why Brighton is a Popular Destination for Seafood Lovers

Brighton’s location on the English Channel means fresh catches are often available at local fishmongers. Restaurants often partner with nearby ports to secure fresh fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. This freshness often translates into flavour and texture, contributing to the seafood experiences across the city.

Brighton Restaurants Offering Fresh Local Seafood

Several establishments are well-regarded for their fresh sourcing:

• The Salt Room – A seafront location, known for sourcing fresh fish and Cornish crab.
• English’s of Brighton – A well-known oyster bar, often celebrated for its daily selection of oysters and scallops.
• Riddle & Finns – A popular seafood grill, often specialising in gilthead bream and local lobster.

These restaurants often maintain quality standards and focus on fresh sourcing, aiming to deliver the taste of the ocean.

Brighton’s Food Procurement and Sustainable Eateriesregarding Brighton’s food procurement practices… restaurant 25 was initially established in Brighton in 2014 before relocating to London in 2019, whilst MOSHIMO is currently Brighton’s most sustainable restaurant…3. City Report: Brighton (United Kingdom), M Grasso, 2014

Diverse Seafood Dining Experiences in Brighton

Brighton offers a wide array of seafood dining options:

• Classic Fish and Chips – Offers traditional battered cod, mushy peas, and hand-cut chips from beachside spots.
• Oyster Bars – Features counter-style venues where seasonal oysters are often shucked to order.
• Elegant Seafood Dining – Offers tasting menus featuring surf-and-turf combinations, delicate ceviches, and shellfish creations.

This spectrum caters to everything from a quick seaside treat to a multi-course feast, showcasing Brighton’s versatility as a seafood destination.

Focus on Fresh and Responsibly Sourced Seafood in Brighton

Many establishments focus on fresh and responsibly sourced seafood, demonstrated through:

• Collaborations with fisheries, some of which may be certified by the Marine Stewardship Council.
• Menus that may identify seafood as line-caught, pole-and-line, or hand-dived where applicable.
• Commitment to waste reduction through practices like whole-fish preparation and composting in some venues.

By prioritising responsible sourcing, many of Brighton’s seafood restaurants aim to support local marine ecosystems and offer diners a considered culinary experience.

Brighton’s Fine Dining and Romantic Restaurants

For special occasions, Brighton’s fine dining scene offers exquisite cuisine paired with elegant atmospheres. Restaurants focusing on tasting menus, innovative wine pairings, and appealing views can create memorable experiences for couples and celebrations. Discover where to book an intimate table or explore chef-led culinary artistry.

Brighton Restaurants Offering Exquisite Fine Dining

Fine dining in Brighton often showcases a blend of culinary creativity and precise execution. Notable venues include:

• Etch. by Steven Edwards – Offers a multi-course tasting journey filled with inventive flavour combinations.
• The Set – Features chef-driven Modern British menus with bespoke wine selections.
• The Flint House – A wine-centric dining room showcasing seasonal British ingredients.

These kitchens are known for their techniques and presentation, aiming to delight discerning palates.

Brighton’s Romantic Dinner Spots

For an intimate dinner, consider venues with candle-lit tables, gentle sea breezes, and attentive service:

• The Salt Room (offering seafront views and a sleek glass-fronted exterior).
• The White Rabbit (a charming spot with a courtyard and soft string lighting).

These venues often aim to create a special atmosphere through thoughtful lighting, intimate table arrangements, and attentive hospitality, making them suitable for anniversaries or proposals.

Unique Touches at Brighton’s Fine Dining Restaurants

Beyond the food, fine dining restaurants often elevate the entire experience with:

• Chef’s Table Experiences – Intimate sittings where guests may interact directly with the culinary team.
• Innovative Drink Pairings – Beyond wine, some offer curated flights of tea, sake, or craft beer to complement courses.
• Evolving Seasonal Menus – Menus that may change regularly, highlighting fresh local produce and culinary innovations.

These elements can contribute to memorable gastronomic narratives, blending culinary theatre with Brighton’s dynamic food scene.

Exploring Brighton’s Diverse Culinary Landscape

Brighton’s multicultural community has cultivated a rich tapestry of ethnic restaurants, many offering authentic flavours and regional specialities. From Italian trattorias to Indian curry houses and Japanese sushi bars, a variety of palates can find options in this vibrant coastal city’s culinary mosaic.

Authentic Italian, Indian, and Japanese Restaurants in Brighton

Brighton offers a range of international dining experiences:

• Italian: Donatello offers house-made pasta and an Italian wine list.
• Indian: Dilkhusa offers coastal-inspired curries and small plates with a British twist.
• Japanese: Oshio presents omakase and fresh nigiri prepared by sushi chefs.

These restaurants often work with importers or source key ingredients, aiming for faithful and delicious renditions of classic dishes.

Brighton’s Popular Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

Plant-centric dining is popular in Brighton, with numerous options:

Venue	Cuisine Style	Standout Dish	Price Point (per dish) (approx.)
Terre à Terre	Vegetarian Fine Dining	Carrot Consommé	£18–£25
Food for Friends	Vegan Mediterranean	Aubergine Tartare	£15–£22

Creative menus and a focus on seasonal produce often highlight bold flavours, exciting textures, and considered sourcing, making Brighton a popular destination for plant-based food lovers.

Mediterranean, Mexican, and Thai Flavours in Brighton

Global tastes are represented in Brighton’s diverse kitchens:

• Mediterranean: Adelfia combines Greek-style meze with fresh British seafood.
• Mexican: La Choza offers authentic tacos, handmade tortillas, and mezcal flights.
• Thai: Giggling Squid offers vibrant curries, refreshing salads, and spice blends inspired by Thai traditions.

Many restaurants aim to capture the spirit of their region, often collaborating with chefs to maintain culinary integrity.

Brighton Neighbourhoods: Exploring Dining Options

Dining in Brighton can be a journey through distinct districts, each offering unique flavours and atmospheres—from the charming, winding streets of The Lanes to the relaxed beachfront eateries of Hove and the venues at the Marina.

Notable Restaurants in The Lanes, Brighton

The Lanes, a historic quarter, is home to intimate bistros and independent cafés:

• Coal Shed – Well-regarded for its grilled steaks and fresh fish platters, served in a cosy cellar setting.
• Lost in the Lanes – A popular spot, noted for its beautifully presented creative brunches.
• Food for Friends – Offers al fresco vegetarian dining in a charming courtyard.

The cobblestone streets and candlelit tables can contribute to an enchanting dining experience.

Where to Eat in North Laine and Hove

North Laine is a vibrant area, while Hove offers a more tranquil seaside vibe:

• North Laine: The Walrus for classic pub fare, The Flour Pot for baked goods.
• Hove: Oeuf Café for its recognised brunch, The Ginger Pig for charcuterie boards and craft beers.

These areas offer a contrast, presenting both urban eateries and relaxed spots by the water.

Dining Options at Brighton Marina and Kemptown

Seaside views and a variety of venues define the Marina and Kemptown areas:

• Brighton Marina: Riddle & Finns for seafood platters with views of the yachts, Nautilus for Mediterranean dishes.
• Kemptown: Carte Blanche for global tapas, Busby and Wilds for family-style sharing menus.

The waterside promenades can enhance the dining experience, making these districts suitable for leisurely sunset meals.

Unique Dining Experiences and Food Events in Brighton

Beyond traditional restaurants, Brighton offers culinary experiences through guided tours, pop-up events, and seasonal markets, providing dynamic ways to experience the city’s food culture.

Brighton Food Tours and Culinary Adventures

Guided walking tours can be a way to discover cafés, producers, and street-food stalls. Some popular experiences include:

• Independent Brighton Tours – Explore charming spots on foot.
• Seafood Trail – Offers sampling sessions at various harbour outlets.
• Farmers’ Market Tours – May be paired with local chef demonstrations.

These activities can offer insights and flavour pairings, connecting you to Brighton’s culinary scene.

Choosing a Brighton Restaurant for Any Occasion

Selecting a dining spot involves considering style, budget, and practical details. By carefully weighing factors like atmosphere, cuisine, and service, you can find a memorable dining experience tailored to your event.

Key Factors for Picking a Brighton Restaurant

When planning your next meal out, consider these factors:

• Budget and perceived value.
• Cuisine Type to suit preferences.
• Atmosphere – considering a casual café, elegant fine dining, or a beachfront view.
• Practicalities like reservation policies, outdoor seating availability, and provisions for pets or accessibility needs.

Balancing these elements can help ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Booking and Preparing for Popular Brighton Restaurants

Popular venues often benefit from advance planning:

• Book in Advance – Many sought-after spots can get booked up.
• Review Menus Online – Preview the offerings to consider dietary requirements.
• Consider Your Timing – An earlier or later seating may offer a more relaxed ambiance.
• Communicate Special Requests – Inform the restaurant about any celebrations or specific needs in advance.

Thoughtful planning can contribute to a smoother arrival and attentive service throughout your meal.

Where to Find Insider Tips and Local Recommendations

Getting local insights can enhance your dining experience:

• Follow Brighton Food Bloggers for reviews and tips on local spots.
• Check Resident Forums for feedback on various offerings.

Tapping into local expertise can help you discover local spots and contribute to an authentic Brighton food experience.

Brighton’s restaurant scene offers a fusion of seaside freshness and culinary flair, catering to various tastes and occasions. From hearty full English breakfasts and lively bottomless brunches to fresh seafood options and romantic fine-dining establishments, this guide has aimed to provide venue highlights and insights to help you plan your next meal. With this guide, you can explore Brighton’s vibrant food landscape and discover places that fit your budget, mood, and culinary curiosity. Join our community for more guides, and let your meals in Brighton become cherished dining memories.

Brighton Dining at a Glance: Quick Reference

Dining Experience	Key Characteristics	Example Venues
Fine Dining & Romantic	Exquisite cuisine, elegant atmosphere, tasting menus	Etch. by Steven Edwards, The Salt Room, The Flint House
Breakfast & Brunch	Hearty fry-ups, plant-based options, bottomless brunches	Moksha Café, Oeuf Café, Terre à Terre
Fresh Seafood	Local catches, oyster bars, diverse preparations	Riddle & Finns, English’s of Brighton, The Salt Room
Vegan & Vegetarian	Inventive plant-based dishes, seasonal produce	Terre à Terre, Food for Friends
Local Favourites	Community love, consistent quality, unique atmosphere	Café Coho, Starfish & Coffee, The Walrus
International Cuisine	Authentic Italian, Indian, Japanese, Mexican, Thai	Donatello, Dilkhusa, Oshio, La Choza, Giggling Squid

Your Brighton Culinary Journey Awaits

Brighton’s vibrant food scene truly offers something for every palate and occasion. From the Michelin-recognised establishments pushing culinary boundaries to the cosy cafés serving up the perfect brunch, and from the freshest seafood by the sea to a world of international flavours, the city is a treasure trove for food lovers. Also, if you’re looking for places to eat that don’t break the bank, be sure the check out our blog on Cheap Places to Eat in Brighton!

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration to explore Brighton’s diverse eateries. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family brunch, or a casual bite with friends, remember to check individual restaurant details for the most current information and booking policies. Dive in, savour the flavours, and create your own unforgettable dining memories in this dynamic coastal city.