Brighton is as synonymous with good old-fashioned fish ‘n’ chips as the next seaside town, but as someone who grew up in the city, I can assure you the restaurant scene here is also well worthy of your attention. It’s got everything from Indian and Italian to Mexican and Korean cuisine on offer, plus all that locally-caught seafood which hasn’t just been whacked in a deep-fat fryer (although if that is what you’re craving, there are boatloads of good places for fish ‘n’ chips).
On the swishier side, Brighton has a handful of Michelin guide restaurants and a venture by a former MasterChef champion, but the city boasts plenty of hearty, tasty, budget places to eat as well. So whether you’re a fully-fledged carnivore or a die-hard vegan, there’s guaranteed to be somewhere that’ll really hit the spot. It’s a lot to digest, right? Thankfully, you’ve got a local on hand to guide you through it all – here are my absolute favourite places to eat in Brighton.
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This article was recently updated by Liv Kelly, a writer from Brighton. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
What is it? Locally sourced ingredients and modern British dishes in a swanky Hove setting.
Why go? Run by a team who used to work for the Brighton-renowned Gingerman group, Wild Flor has become one of Brighton and Hove’s best foodie destinations over the past few years. Ingredients are sourced from farms across Sussex, while the cooking is first class. It also rotates its tasting menu on a seasonal basis.
What is it? It’s Brighton’s most awarded restaurant!
Why go? Ever since chef Duncan Ray first opened LFM in 2013, gourmets from across the UK have flocked to sample the constantly changing, ingredient-led menu at this small (20-cover) restaurant. The innovative menu will make for an unforgettable dining experience, worth every penny. And though this used to be a proper blow-the-budget spot, they now do a brilliant set lunch menu, for those less keen to splurge.
What is it? A menu of small plates and tacos inspired by the warmth of Mexican street food.
Why go? Run by two dedicated brothers, Halisco is one of the most exciting restaurants in the city. The dishes are packed with seasonal ingredients, accompanied by the best margaritas outside of the motherland. What’s more, they’ve hosted multiple nights to raise money for charity, and have an affection for mariachi covers, which are always blaring. I’d highly recommend the oyster mushroom tacos, paired with a refreshing chelada.
What is it? Take your tastebuds all the way to Tokyo and back, without leaving the South East.
Why go? Brighton isn’t exactly short of a fine dining spot, but those who really know their food also known Bincho Yakitori. This joint has legions of fans who come for its authentically Japanese casual drinking-and-dining experience. It’s the meat skewers that everyone goes really wild for, so take your seat at the bar and say hai to everything on offer.
What is it? Superb French dishes with an affordable set lunch menu.
Why go? This French spot has become one of Brighton’s most renowned foodie destinations in recent years, doing a fine line in small plates that wow both hungry tourists and picky locals alike. Best of all, Petit Pois has a lunchtime set menu offer, where you can opt for two or three courses for £18 or £23 respectively.
What is it? Elegant café/restaurant in near Brighton’s popular theatres.
Why go? The newest branch of the restaurant family behind Lucky Khao Thai BBQ and Lucky Beach opened as the official eatery of Brighton’s historic Dome in May 2023. Redroaster offers seriously good breakfast, lunch and dinner (even bottomless brunch on the weekends), in a sophisticated city-centre spot.
What is it? For mouth-watering twists on Meditarranean dishes
Why go? Mediterranean-style small plates are hardly hard to come by right now, but the dishes served up at LOST in the Lanes, which has recently launched a Thursday-Saturday dinner menu, do not disappoint. Vegetarian, fish and meat options are all executed well, and there are some particularly enticing plates on the menu – think bavette steak with tangy café de paris dressing or crispy charred leeks served on a bed of romesco. The tasteful setting, smart, flavourful food and friendly service combine to make this place a cracking new dinner spot.
What is it? Ridiculously good small plates from two of Brighton’s most exciting restauranteurs.
Why go? The second venture by brothers Ali and Mo Razavi (see Halisco at number three), Anakuma is an extension of their love of small plates but is worlds away in flavour from its sister restaurant. Here, the menu still follows their formula of sharing dishes and snacks, but it’s instead inspired by knockout Asian flavours – think scallion pancakes, wonton chips and some absolutely smashing bao buns. But despite the sleek, intimately-lit restaurant, the place is still a great place to head if you’re on a bit of a budget – check their Insta for the latest set menu deals.
What is it? Spectacular pasta made in an open kitchen, with a superb wine list to match.
Why go? Cin Cin’s U-shaped bar seats hungry patrons who can sit and watch the chefs work their magic. The menu changes regularly, with the likes of truffled ricotta tortellini satiating the appetite of pasta fiends. They offer a £10 Tuesday pasta deal, or a slightly boujier three-course dinner menu for two people plus wine, which costs £80.
What is it? The Brighton restaurant where no-meat doesn’t equal no-fun.
Why go? If you’re trying to cut your meaty instake or Brighton’s steak restaurants just aren’t your thing, you should definitely try local treasure Terre à Terre. You’ll get anything and everything from around the globe here – there are no constraints on the country of origin, as long as the recipe is tasty and veggie. Make sure to leave room to try their luscious desserts if you’re here for dinner, or check out their marvellous afternoon tea.
What is it? This teeny-tiny restaurant is home to some massive flavour.
Why go? Opened in mid-2022, Palmito is a relatively new restaurant on the Brighton food scene, but that hasn’t stopped it making waves. The chefs are formerly of the Chilli Pickle in the city centre, but this venture is an Ecuadorian-Indian fusion, which makes for a bold and unique menu. The dishes change daily and there’s an ever-evolving cocktail and wine list to match, but has included plates like grilled peaches with pistachio tahini and Peruvian ox heart anticucho in the past.
What is it? Fresh seafood in a refined setting.
Why go? Riddle & Finns’ Beach and Lanes locations are the best places to sample all the best seafood in town. Champagne and oysters are on the menu, and you can enjoy overlooking the waves or in the intimate original restaurant on Meeting House Lane. The dedicated team behind this Brighton classic also provide cooking master classes at the city’s community kitchen. We’d recommend rocking up and sampling the freshest catch of the day. Booking is only available at the Beach restaurant.
What is it? Fluffy bao buns and excellent craft beer.
Why go? The resident Taiwanese kitchen at this independent Brighton pub has truly made a name for itself. Baby Bao has mastered soft, pillowy buns, which pair perfectly with some of The Pond’s excellent craft beer selection. They also offer a selection of picky bits and sweet-fried bao sticks. This place is popular and seating is limited, so drop them an email to book in advance.
What is it? Taste your way through up to nine courses at this Hove home-from-home for fine diners.
Why go? It’s run by a former Master Chef: The Professionals winner, so it’s no real surprise Etch is a fancy little spot. However, the restaurant has a nice laid-back charm, which aims to move away from the stuffier feeling of traditional posh restaurants. Tasting menus change each month and reflect whatever is best at that time of year.
What is it? Generous portions at budget-friendly prices
Why go? Who says a great restaurant has to be fancy? Noodle Soup certainly doesn’t, but this place does know punchy flavour. The noodle bar sits on one of Brighton’s liveliest nighttime streets, amongst night clubs and late-night bars, but foodies shouldn’t be deterred. This tiny, cash-only venue has a surprisingly large menu of wontons, spring rolls and – of course – plenty of noodle soup to slurp down under the fluorescently lit restaurant or as a takeaway.
What is it? Freshly-made sushi in an eye-catching Japanese restaurant.
Why go? Brighton has a surprisingly strong array of Japanese restaurants but for sushi, none can match Moshimo. Tucked away in a futuristic looking box near The Lanes, this modern spot makes for a super-sleek restaurant. Sustainable fish is at the heart of everything they do here, with first rate ingredients bringing a taste of Kyoto to the city by the sea — if you’re feeling elaborate, order the sushi boat.
What is it? Well-loved vegetarian restaurant in The Lanes that’s even a hit with non-veggies.
Why go? Food for Friends is a jewel in Brighton’s veggie-friendly crown. The restaurant has long been proving that no meat doesn’t equal no taste, and the award-winning venue specialises in dishes designed to be shared with a table of your best mates (even the ones who claim to dislike veggie food).
What is it? Celebrated steak restaurant with a commitment to the best of local ingredients.
Why go? A member of the Blackrocks Restaurant group, The Coal Shed is a firm favourite with Brightonians and visitors. This place does the classic steak incredibly well — old school meaty brilliance means even the bread can be served with whipped beef fat, and the robust puddings will top off the richness nicely.
What is it? Pizza, pizza, and more pizza.
Why go? Who doesn’t love pizza? Fatto a Mano certainly does, and they definitely know what they’re doing with it too. This mini Brighton chain has expanded into three branches across the city, and even has digs near Kings Cross and in Covent Garden. They specialise in authentic Italian pizza and spritz, and there are usually some creative toppings and drinks on offer on their specials menu, too.
What is it? An intimate little spot that has every kind of diner in mind.
Why go? Set within a recently regenerated part of Brighton’s Lanes, The Flint House’s large dining room and stunning terrace make it great for large gatherings. The menu is broad, with vegans and gluten-free diners catered for with dedicated menus. The chef’s menu – which includes a small selection of dishes plus wine pairings – is a fun way to sample something new.
What is it? This fish ‘n’ chip shop is a little piece of history.
Why go? Established nearly 100 years ago, Bardsley’s is no less than a Brighton institution. The tiled interior makes for the perfect laid-back setting to enjoy good old-fashioned fish ‘n’ chips, and the waiting staff are probably the friendliest you’ll ever meet.
What is it? Inventive Indian restaurant loved by Brighton foodies.
Why go? Many consider The Chilli Pickle Brighton’s best Indian restaurant. Suitable for lunch or dinner, the creatively put together menu is crammed with recipes you’re unlikely to have tried before. Their dishes are colourful, well-spiced and aromatic, and it’s probably best-place resto in town for after-dinner drinks.
What is it? Part of the Blackrock Restaurants Group, this is one of the most stylish restaurants in Brighton.
Why go? A menu of delicious small plates can be ordered individually as a boujee bar snack or in bulk for an indulgent feast. With delicious seafood, wood fired meat and vegetables, the classy menu makes for a super elegant dining experience. The restaurant’s decor exudes style, and Burnt Orange boasts one of the nicest terraces in Brighton. Oh, and the sparkling sorbet cocktail is a must-try.
What is it? Stylish, on-trend cuisine in a sleek venue.
Why go? Yet more proof that Brighton is rather fond of its super-cool restaurants, 64 Degrees rustles up dishes with a big load of flair. Headed by Michael Bremner, the restaurant prides itself on using local and seasonal produce – so don’t be surprised to see a good few Sussex items on the menu. It’s soon transitioning back to a small-plates format, after a stint in fine-dining. This is a good place to book if you’re trying to impress a serious foodie.
What is it? The authentic taste of India in the comfort of a living room.
Why go? Planet India has all the flavour of a high end restaurant with the all the charm of a family home, and that’s basically what it is. This all vegetarian restaurant has been feeding the curry-hungry Brightonians for donkey’s years, and become a bit of a cult favourite. They’re also super popular for takeaways, and are very proud of their cumin rice.
What is it? It’s a reliable, traditional, hearty Italian with old-fashioned charm
Why go? Casalingo has been one of Brighton’s most loved and reliable Italian restaurants since it was taken over by owner Angelo back in 1988. Like with lots of old-fashioned Italian establishments, the tables are covered with white cloths, the waiters are smartly dressed and the menu is long, but one of the best things about this place is its consistency.
What is it? A classic Brighton restaurant with plenty of charm.
Why go? Brighton diners love The Gingerman, the flagship branch of a restaurant group by the same name. This cooly decorated venue offers fixed-price menus (one, two or three courses) or a splash-out tasting one. The food is British-influenced, with some gourmet flourishes. They also do a delectable Sunday lunch.
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