Table of Contents
- Brighton’s Best Sunday Roasts
- Where to find the best traditional Sunday roast pubs in Brighton and Hove
- Which Brighton restaurants offer an elevated Sunday roast?
- What are the best vegan and vegetarian Sunday roast options in Brighton?
- Which family-friendly venues serve great Sunday roasts in Brighton and Hove?
- Where can you enjoy a Sunday roast with a view along Brighton’s seafront?
- How to choose and book your perfect Sunday roast in Brighton
- Your Perfect Brighton Sunday Roast Awaits
- Beyond the Roast: Sunday Activities in Brighton
- Recommended Reads
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Brighton’s Best Sunday Roasts
The Sunday roast is a proper British ritual, and Brighton does it brilliantly. Between the sea breeze, a lively food scene and pubs that know their roasting tin inside out, there are plenty of excellent options. This guide points you to the best places for a proper Sunday roast in Brighton and Hove, from cosy pubs and dressed-up restaurants to standout plant-based choices and family-friendly spots. Whether you live here or are visiting for the day, we’ll help you find the roast that hits the spot: tender meat (or a hearty vegan alternative), crisp roasties, and a Yorkshire worth bragging about.
Where to find the best traditional Sunday roast pubs in Brighton and Hove
Brighton and Hove’s classic pubs do Sunday roasts with warmth and generous portions. These are the places where comforting food meets the kind of atmosphere that makes a Sunday feel like a Sunday.
Why pubs like The Geese and The Walrus feel like classic roast spots
The Geese, nestled in the vibrant Hanover neighbourhood, is loved for its friendly welcome and no-nonsense roast. Expect a proper plate (crispy roast potatoes, seasonal veg and a generous ladle of gravy) served in a relaxed, slightly rustic room. Locals often praise the portion sizes and staff who really make you feel at home.
The Walrus, located in the historic Lanes, has a homely vibe and a focus on local ingredients. Their roasts (think succulent beef or tender lamb) come with homemade Yorkshire puddings and often a lively atmosphere (sometimes even live music) which makes Sunday lunch here feel like a treat.
Other reliable traditional pubs worth trying include The Lion & Lobster on Sillwood Street in Brighton, near the city centre and a short walk from the seafront, and The Prince George in North Laine, both known for hearty portions and welcoming rooms.
Which Brighton restaurants offer an elevated Sunday roast?
If you want something a bit more polished, Brighton’s restaurants take the roast up a notch with finer ingredients and refined plates.
How places like Embers and The Coal Shed raise the roast game
Embers, found in The Lanes, gives the roast a contemporary spin, often cooking meats over an open flame for richer flavour. Expect dishes like slow-cooked pork belly or herb-crusted lamb, paired with refined seasonal sides, ideal for a special Sunday.
The Coal Shed, also in The Lanes, focuses on top-quality, sustainably sourced meat (from grass-fed beef to free-range chicken) and treats seasonal produce with care. Their roasts are precise and well-cooked, aimed at diners who want something more refined than the usual pub plate.
What are the best vegan and vegetarian Sunday roast options in Brighton?
Brighton is a haven for plant-based diners, plenty of places serve vegan and vegetarian roasts that feel like the main event, not an afterthought.
Where to enjoy plant-based roasts: The Roundhill Pub and more
The Roundhill Pub, a gem in Round Hill / Ditchling Road (near The Level / Fiveways), is a local favourite for inclusive menus. Their vegan roast (often a hearty nut roast) comes with all the familiar trimmings: roasted veg and a solid vegan gravy, plus a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Food for Friends, a long-standing vegetarian and vegan institution in The Lanes, offers a refined plant-based roast experience. Their creative approach to seasonal ingredients ensures a memorable meal, often featuring inventive nut roasts or other creative plant-based options with all the trimmings. Over in North Laine, The Earth & Stars is another great option, with vegan-friendly roasts that are popular with plant-based diners.
Which family-friendly venues serve great Sunday roasts in Brighton and Hove?
Eating out with kids doesn’t have to be stressful, Brighton and Hove have several pubs and restaurants that welcome families and make the roast a simple pleasure.
How The Ladies Mile Pub and Hove Place work for families
The Ladies Mile Pub, located in Patcham, is popular with families thanks to a children’s menu alongside the main roast options, plus a roomy garden where kids can run about while adults enjoy their meal. Their Sunday roast menu usually offers both meat and vegetarian choices so everyone can find something they like.
Hove Place, in the heart of Hove, offers a relaxed, spacious dining area and a children’s roast with smaller portions and kid-friendly sides. Parents often praise the attentive service and the chance to enjoy a leisurely Sunday lunch without worry.
Other family-friendly spots include The Ginger Dog in Kemptown and The Cricketers in The Lanes, known for welcoming rooms and menus suited to younger diners.
Where can you enjoy a Sunday roast with a view along Brighton’s seafront?
A seaside view makes any Sunday roast feel that bit more special. Brighton’s seafront venues serve up scenery alongside satisfying plates.
Why The Salt Room and The Lion & Lobster are great for scenic Sunday lunches
The Salt Room, situated directly on Brighton seafront, is famous for its stunning sea views and seafood focus, but it also does an impressive Sunday roast using locally sourced meats. It’s a lovely choice for a special occasion when you want your lunch with a side of sea breeze.
The Lion & Lobster, a historic pub on Sillwood Street in Brighton with a charming terrace, serves a solid roast menu with meat and vegetarian options. While not directly on the seafront, its proximity and lively atmosphere make it a popular pick for visitors and locals alike looking for a traditional pub experience near the coast.
How to choose and book your perfect Sunday roast in Brighton
With so many good options, picking the right place comes down to a few simple considerations. Here are some practical tips to make booking easier.
Tips for booking and catering to dietary preferences
Think about the group’s dietary needs before you book. Many places list vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options; check menus online or call ahead. Reservations are a smart move during peak times, especially around 1pm, to avoid disappointment. Menus and roast options can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest menu when booking.
How price ranges and unique features compare across venues
Expect a wide price range: traditional pubs tend to be more budget-friendly, while upscale restaurants ask more for premium ingredients and service. Look at menus and special features (sea views, open-flame cooking, children’s facilities) to match the venue to your occasion and budget.
Different venues in Brighton offer a variety of Sunday roast experiences to suit tastes and wallets. Here’s a quick comparison of a few popular spots:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history behind the Sunday roast tradition?
The Sunday roast grew from a long-standing British habit of cooking a big meal on Sundays, going back centuries. It began as a practical way to cook large cuts while families were out (often before or after church) and evolved into a weekly ritual that brings people together. Today it’s celebrated for its comforting, communal feel: meat, roasted vegetables and Yorkshire puddings shared around the table.
Are there any unique or unusual roast options available in Brighton?
Yes, Brighton’s food scene loves to experiment. You’ll find twists like duck or game roasts, roasted cauliflower steaks, spiced lentil loaves and other creative vegetarian or vegan options. Some places add international flavours (think Asian-inspired marinades or Mediterranean sides) to give the roast a fresh spin.
How can I find the best Sunday roast deals in Brighton?
To spot good deals, check local food blogs, venue social pages and restaurant websites for promotions. Some places run off-peak discounts or loyalty schemes, and apps that aggregate offers can help too. Signing up to newsletters from your favourite pubs and restaurants is an easy way to hear about specials.
What should I consider when choosing a venue for a Sunday roast?
When choosing where to go, think about the atmosphere you want (a traditional pub or a refined restaurant) and any dietary needs in your group. Location matters if you want a sea view, and reviews can help you judge service and quality. Match the place to the occasion and you’re more likely to have a great meal.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for a Sunday roast?
It’s not always essential, but reservations are strongly recommended during peak times. Popular spots fill up, especially around 1pm, so booking ahead avoids disappointment. If you’re in a larger group or have dietary requests, let the venue know when you book.
What are some popular side dishes served with Sunday roasts in Brighton?
Alongside the main, expect crispy roast potatoes, seasonal veg like carrots and Brussels sprouts, and Yorkshire puddings. Many places add extras such as specialty mashed potatoes, cauliflower cheese or homemade stuffing. A good gravy (often made from the meat juices) ties it all together.
What are the usual accompaniments with a Sunday roast?
A classic roast plate usually includes crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables and Yorkshire puddings. A good gravy (often made from the meat juices) brings everything together. Depending on the meat, you might also see chutneys or sauces like mint for lamb or apple sauce for pork.
Are there gluten-free options for Sunday roasts in Brighton?
Yes, many pubs and restaurants offer gluten-free choices or can adapt dishes. Some venues provide gluten-free Yorkshire puddings or alternative sides; others will tweak a dish if you give them a heads-up when booking. Always mention dietary needs in advance to be safe.
When is the best time to enjoy a Sunday roast in Brighton?
Midday to mid-afternoon is peak roast time, roughly 12:00 to 16:00. Service is busiest around 13:00, so booking earlier or later can make for a more relaxed experience.
Can I find roasts that cater to specific dietary needs?
Absolutely. Brighton’s dining scene is very accommodating, with many venues offering vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free roasts. Places like The Roundhill Pub are known for inclusive menus, and most chefs will try to adapt dishes if you let them know when you book.
What drinks pair well with a Sunday roast?
Red wines (a juicy Merlot or a bolder Cabernet) work well with roasted meats. Traditional ales or stouts can be great too. For non-alcoholic choices, try sparkling water, apple juice or elderflower cordial. Ultimately, choose what you enjoy with your roast.
Do venues run special events or promotions for Sunday roasts?
Yes, many pubs and restaurants host themed roasts, live music or family events, especially around holidays and local festivals. Check venues’ websites or social pages for special menus, promotions or loyalty offers before you book.
Your Perfect Brighton Sunday Roast Awaits
Brighton and Hove serve up a great range of Sunday roasts to suit every mood, from cosy local pubs to elevated restaurants and inventive plant-based plates. Whether you want a family-friendly garden, a seafront view or something a bit fancier, there’s a roast here with your name on it. With such an impressive selection for every taste and occasion, you’re sure to find a memorable meal whether you’re local or just visiting. Book ahead, pick the spot that fits your occasion, explore the options, and discover the perfect spot for your Sunday feast today.
If your Sunday roast turns into an evening out, or you simply want to extend your leisurely afternoon, Brighton offers plenty of ways to continue enjoying your day without focusing on drinks.
Beyond the Roast: Sunday Activities in Brighton
After a satisfying meal, why not take a refreshing walk along Brighton’s iconic seafront, perhaps even venturing onto the Palace Pier for some classic arcade fun? For those who enjoy a bit of retail therapy or simply soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere, a wander through the charming Lanes or the eclectic North Laine offers a delightful mix of independent shops and street art. Alternatively, immerse yourself in history and grandeur with a visit to the Royal Pavilion, a truly spectacular landmark.
These activities provide a perfect complement to your Sunday roast, ensuring a full and memorable day in Brighton.
