2024 -2025

AA Rosette Awards in Brighton & Sussex

AA Rosette Awards 2024-2025

The AA Rosette Awards have been a hallmark of culinary excellence in the UK since 1956, recognising outstanding restaurants that consistently achieve high standards in food preparation and service. Awarded on a scale from 1 to 5 Rosettes, these prestigious accolades are a symbol of quality, with only a select few establishments achieving the higher grades.

Brighton and its surrounding areas of Hove and Sussex are home to several top-tier restaurants that have earned AA Rosettes, making the city a must-visit destination for food lovers. Here’s a look at some of the best restaurants in Brighton and beyond that have been awarded for their excellence. The AA rosette awarded restaurants are listed in no particular order. 

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The Pass – 4 AA Rosettes

Ben Wilkinson, head chef at The Pass restaurant, brings a refined and innovative approach to modern British cuisine. His cooking style focuses on seasonality, precision, and creativity, presenting dishes that highlight the finest locally sourced ingredients. With an open-kitchen concept, diners can witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind each plate. The Pass holds an impressive 4 AA Rosettes, reflecting its status in the AA Guide as a leading dining destination, and it has also earned a coveted Michelin star, cementing its place among the finest restaurants in the UK.

 

Gravetye Manor – 4 AA Rosettes

Leading the pack with an outstanding 4 AA Rosettes, Gravetye Manor holds the highest accolade in Sussex. Set in a historic manor house surrounded by stunning gardens, this restaurant emphasises garden-to-table dining, utilising ingredients sourced from its own grounds. The menu features meticulously crafted dishes that highlight the rich flavours of Sussex produce. With its luxurious setting and commitment to excellence, Gravetye Manor stands out as a top choice for discerning diners seeking an exceptional culinary experience.

etch. by Steven Edwards – 3 AA Rosettes

etch. is an acclaimed Hove restaurant founded by MasterChef: The Professionals winner Steven Edwards, known for its inventive, modern British cuisine. Awarded 3 AA Rosettes, etch. offers an exceptional tasting menu that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on precision and creativity. Each dish is meticulously crafted, reflecting Edwards’ innovative approach to fine dining. With its stylish, intimate setting and ever-evolving menu, etch. provides a memorable culinary experience, making it one of the top dining destinations in Hove.

The Little Fish Market – 3 AA Rosettes

The Little Fish Market in Hove, led by acclaimed chef Duncan Ray, has earned an impressive 3 AA Rosettes for its outstanding seafood-focused dining experience. This intimate, 20-seat restaurant offers a carefully curated tasting menu that showcases the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Duncan Ray’s refined cooking style and dedication to simplicity, flavour, and presentation make The Little Fish Market a standout destination for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable, high-quality dining experience in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Restaurant Interlude – 3 AA Rosettes

Restaurant Interlude continues to impress, maintaining its prestigious 3 AA Rosettes along with its Michelin star. This year, it has also been awarded a Sustainable Star by Michelin, recognising its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. The restaurant offers a unique tasting menu that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. 

The Camelia Restaurant – 3 AA Rosettes 

The Camellia Restaurant at South Lodge is renowned for its 3 AA Rosette Award, praised by AA inspectors for its “modern British cooking with a sound foundation in the classics.” Nestled within the picturesque grounds of South Lodge, a luxury hotel in West Sussex, the restaurant offers a serene countryside setting for diners. Guests can expect meticulously crafted dishes that highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, blending traditional British cuisine with innovative techniques. With elegant surroundings and exceptional service, The Camellia delivers a refined dining experience, perfect for those seeking a taste of modern British fine dining.

Furna – 2 AA Rosettes

Furna, located on New Road in Brighton, is a refined dining destination led by talented chef Dave Mothersill. Awarded 2 AA Rosettes, Furna offers a carefully crafted menu that highlights locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, presented with creativity and finesse.

Dave Mothersill’s approach to modern British cuisine blends bold flavours with elegant simplicity, making Furna a must-visit for those seeking a memorable culinary experience. 

The Fig Tree – 2 AA Rosette

Recently awarded 2 AA RosettesFig Tree in Hurstepierpoint is gaining recognition for its innovative and modern approach to British cuisine.

Situated in a charming quaint high street setting, the Sussex restaurant focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, crafting a menu that combines traditional flavours with contemporary flair. Diners can expect beautifully presented dishes that reflect a commitment to quality and creativity. 

Jolly Sportsman – 1 AA Rosette

The Jolly Sportsman has also earned its first 1 AA Rosette, marking its arrival on the culinary scene.

This rustic country pub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced produce. Known for its hearty yet refined dishes, the Jolly Sportsman delivers comfort food with a sophisticated twist. 

 

Hotel Du Vin – 1 AA Rosette

Hotel Du Vin, located in Brighton’s historic Lanes, is one of the city’s original boutique hotels, renowned for its charm and elegance. Still thriving, the hotel continues to impress with its evolving seasonal menus, which highlight fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant, awarded 1 AA Rosette, also boasts one of Brighton’s largest wine cellars, offering an extensive selection to complement any meal. With its stylish event spaces and luxurious rooms, Hotel Du Vin remains a top choice for both dining and accommodation in Brighton.

terre à terre – 1 AA Rosette

terre à terre is a globally recognised vegetarian restaurant in Brighton, celebrated for its innovative and creative plant-based dishes. Winner of the Best Restaurant award at the 2024 BRAVO Awards, it has garnered a loyal following for its bold flavours and artistic presentations. Awarded 1 AA Rosette, Terre à Terre showcases a diverse menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques from around the world. With its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to sustainability, it’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking exceptional vegetarian cuisine.

Pictured: terre à terre celebrating their win as best Brighton restaurant in the 2024 BRAVO Awards.