Restaurant Brighton's guide to

Italian Restaurants in Brighton

Our top picks

Italian Restaurant in Brighton Centre

The longest serving Italian restaurant Brighton has, opening in 1979. Al Duomo is Brighton’s  Brighton Italian restaurant. In recent years it’s come under new management, but at the core of that management, it’s still very much Italian and family-owned (the new owners were partners in the business for over 30 years).

The restaurant itself is brightly decorated in oranges and blues instantly reminiscent of warmer shores. There’s plenty of room, perfect for dining Italian style, with lots of guests. All the food is freshly made to order with quality ingredients. And include Italian classics such as stone-baked, wood-fired pizzas, freshly made pasta and gelato, also made in-house.

One of the dons of the Italian Restaurant Brighton scene is open 7 days a week from 11.30 am to 11.30 pm and is great for all sorts of occasions; whether it is for a romantic get together, a group of friends starting a night out or for business lunch or diner.

As an Italian family-run business, they pride themselves on authenticity and the warm spirit of Italian hospitality and this is almost certainly felt here. Quality ingredients are prepared daily at Donatello, serving customers fresh and authentic Italian dishes. Located in the Brighton Lanes.

Purezza in Kemptown, Brighton, is a must-visit trailblazing vegan pizzeria that holds a special place in culinary history as the first of its kind in the UK. Since its establishment in 2015, this Brighton restaurant has been redefining traditional Italian pizza with innovative and mouthwatering plant-based creations.

From their delectable vegan mozzarella to a variety of delicious toppings, Purezza’s commitment to sustainability and animal welfare has garnered a devoted following. Whether you’re a vegan or not, a visit to Purezza promises an unforgettable dining experience that combines ethical choices with exquisite flavours.

Tutto Brighton is set in a grand reclaimed 1930s bank building on Marlborough Place. The chic restaurant is notable for its original features, infused Italian magnificence and impressive lineage – it’s the fourth restaurant from local acclaimed restaurateur Raz Helalat. Drawing from authentic, Italian culture Tutto delivers a stunning menu of a la carte and small plate dining. The menu is split into sections that include raw and crudo dishes, pasta, meat and fish from the wood-fired grill, and desserts. You’ll also find an expertly curated Italian wine list – the extensive and thoughtful collection should be noted by wine lovers. Want to dine al fresco? You’ll have the choice between an intimate covered courtyard and the large street terrace, which faces the newly regenerated Victoria Gardens. 

Taking flavour inspiration from around the world, Social Board prominently features Italian flavours on its menu. Their sandwiches, crafted using Flour Pot Bakery ciabatta bread, offer a taste of Italy. Indulge in signature creations like The Italian Job, featuring succulent roast chicken paired with Mediterranean-inspired basil pesto mayo, pine nuts, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and rocket. Complemented by their expertly brewed barista coffee, each bite takes you on a sensory trip to Italy.

Photo credit: Amalfi - Justin De Souza
Photo credit: Justin De Souza

At Shelter Hall, you can enjoy the true taste of Italy with Very Italian Pizza. Indulge in tasty, authentic Neapolitan pizza, featuring traditional ingredients sourced directly from the Amalfi Coast. From the classic Margherita to the mouth watering Polpetta, there’s a pizza for every palate. VIP’s history spans five generations, bringing real Neapolitan pizza made with homemade sourdough and cooked in traditional wood-burning ovens. Stroll down to the Brighton seafront for a slice of Italian tradition.

 

Serving you a slice of Naples on Brighton’s West Street, NuPosto Pizzeria brings you the real deal Brighton Italian pizza with all the smells of authentic Italy.

The dough is fermented for over 24 hours to give a soft chewy base that is the perfect platform for rich tomato sauce and fresh melt-in-the-mouth mozzarella that is delivered from Napoli twice a week.Situated towards the bottom of West Street and next to the cinema, Brighton Centre and Churchill Square shopping centre, NuPosto is ideally situated for pre or post-shopping dining.

Small and independently owned the VIP Italian Pizzeria restaurant and café is as affordable as they come and is thriving favourite in the Italian restaurant Brighton scene.

Located centrally on the Old Steine this venue serves a great value Italian pizza as well as serving as an Italian Deli-Café (Italian cheeses & salamis). Naples inspired Italian cuisine. Always busy so get there early! 

Fatto a Mano Hove have taken the city of Brighton & Hove by storm with their simple and delicious Italian fare and pizzas. The main menu is supplemented by ever-changing specials and all of their dishes are created right in front of your eyes. With locations near Preston Park, in the North Laine and Hove you’re never far from this 2022 BRAVO family friendly winning pizzeria. A locally inspired Italian restaurant in Brighton with a huge following. 

Situated very centrally opposite the Pavilion Gardens, the Dome, the Corn exchange and the Theatre Royal. Pinocchio’s is an ideal Italian restaurant to pop into pre or post theatre, and it is one of those restaurants that always seems busy and yet always has room. Part of a small group of Italian restaurants, namely Donatello’s and Fat Leo’s. Generous portion sizes and keen prices makes this great for group get togethers.

Fully licensed or BYO, Si Signore is located on Sydney Street in Brighton’s North Laine. Described as a café and restaurant, this intimate little venue has a great following in this trendy part of bohemian Brighton. Renowned for their great service and family atmosphere. Here nothing is too much trouble and you will be greeted in a typical Italian way, like long lost friends.

A very established authentic Italian restaurant in Brighton on Preston Street. Casalingo is well known for a relaxed and social atmosphere, this Italian restaurant has a knack for delivering an Italian inspired vibe, using truly authentic recipes and fresh ingredients. Open every evening from 5 pm, 7 days a week, Casalingo offers a true taste of the Italian lifestyle.

Italian Restaurants in Hove

If there’s an Italian restaurant you must visit, it has to be the award-winning Cin Cin in Hove. This modern neighbourhood restaurant offers authentic small plates, pasta, and antipasti, complemented by a fantastic selection of wines and aperitifs. Cin Cin changes its menu monthly to reflect the seasons, which keeps people coming back to try something new with each visit. The seating is centred around the counter in the main dining room, creating a sociable dining experience.

When you get that ‘proper’ pasta craving, you want it fresh, homemade and purely Italian; Pesca is here to satisfy your pure pasta pinings. They also serve an authentic menu of other Italian favourite antipasti and a la carte dishes. Set in Hove, the ‘trattoria’ (restaurant) and cocktail bar is superbly sighted to suit all day diners, locals and tourists alike. Typically Italian, the family run restaurant is inclusive and accessible to families as well as couples enjoying a special occasion. Those of drinking age will get to indulge in the abundant menu of Italian classic wines, Sussex sparking and the regionally inspired cocktail list, salute!

Brighton pubs

Head to this Hove pub for some quality Italian food that features seasonal and freshly caught specials. The Stirling Arms is a bright and welcoming pub tucked away in the residential community behind Church Road. The menu is Mediterranean grill inspired and you’ll find plenty of dishes to satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine including a dedicated selection of fresh pasta dishes, risotto, Tuscan seafood stew and other delicious regional dishes. There are also vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. On Sundays, The Stirling Arms serves a classic roast.

Brighton pubs

Francos Osteria is a restaurant situated on Hove seafront, offers a delightful Italian dining experience. An “Osteria” is traditionally an Italian tavern or eatery where local wines and simple, rustic dishes are served.

At Francos Osteria, guests can indulge in authentic Italian flavours with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance, paired with its scenic location by the sea, makes it an ideal spot for enjoying traditional Italian cuisine and savouring a taste of Italy at this Hove restaurant.

Morelli Zorelli brings you a true taste of Italy, using both artisan and genuine Italian ingredients and is quickly making its mark as a serious contender as one of the best pizzerias in Brighton and Hove. We are talking seriously big Italian flavour, from a smallish but perfectly formed menu using a 150 year old Sardinian sourdough.

Offering fresh seasonal and innovative dishes, Otello in Hove has been part of the Hove restaurant scene for some time now. Described as Italian haute cuisine, this Italian inspired menu has a strong Mediterranean influence along with strong authentic Italian dishes. Otello brings you a reasonably priced menu and an open plan kitchen in a traditional Italian style.

Open seven days a week, Zio is a great little independently run Brighton cafe that combines Italian and British classics. From panninis and fresh fish dishes to Full English all day breakfasts. Open seven days a week with spacious outdoor seating as well as in, it’s a great spot for a family when visiting Brighton Marina

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Al Duomo proudly holds the title of the oldest established Brighton Italian restaurant, dating back to its opening in 1979. Named after the ornate dome above the India entrance of the Pavilion Gardens, the restaurant has been a beloved part of Brighton’s culinary history for 42+ years. Under the new management of family-run Italian food company, Carnevale, and skilled Brighton chef Ercole Cappai, Al Duomo has undergone extensive renovations and introduced a fresh and authentic Italian menu. With its rich history, charming interior, and dedication to delivering an authentic taste of Italy, Al Duomo remains a cherished gem in Brighton’s restaurant scene.

The second oldest Italian restaurant in Brighton is Donatello. Established in 1984, Donatello has been serving traditional Italian cuisine to locals and visitors alike for over three decades. Located in the heart of Brighton, it has become a popular choice for those seeking classic Italian dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With its long-standing presence in the city, Donatello has earned its place as one of Brighton’s iconic Italian dining destinations.

The following restaurants are considered the most popular Italian restaurants in Brighton and Hove.

Purezza is a trailblazing vegan pizzeria that made history as the first of its kind in the UK. Established in Brighton in 2015, the restaurant quickly gained popularity for its innovative plant-based creations. From vegan mozzarella to delectable toppings, Purezza redefines traditional Italian pizza with a cruelty-free twist. Their commitment to sustainability, health, and animal welfare has earned them a loyal following among vegans and non-vegans alike, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delicious and ethical dining experience.

In Brighton, there are several Italian restaurants that serve exceptional pizza, offering a delightful culinary experience. These eateries have mastered the art of crafting authentic and delicious pizzas, drawing locals and visitors alike. From traditional Margherita to inventive vegan options. Whether you prefer a casual dining setting or a more upscale ambiance, these Italian restaurants in Brighton are sure to delight pizza enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable dining experience.