Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Romantic Restaurants in Brighton
Our top picks
The Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide
Looking for the most romantic restaurants in Brighton? Deciding where to take your date on that special first outing can be daunting. Maybe you’re not new to each other but you need a new Brighton restaurant, somewhere different for date night? Here we’ve set out to resolve your “where to go?” woes by listing all the choice venues for your romantic rendezvous.
Our Brighton Valentine’s Day page will also give you plenty of ideas for a romantic restaurant in Brighton.
RECOMMENDED:
Fine Dining Restaurants
Small Plates
Tasting menus
The Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide
Romantic Restaurants Brighton | Drinks to start
If a trip to the city of love is off the cards for your date night then the next best thing may well be Paris Wine Bar in Hove. There’s a lovely intimate feel to the darkly decorated and comfortable bar-restaurant. The menu is modern British tapas, perfect for sharing with around three plates per person being about right. The extensive wine list has options by the glass or the bottle with a focus on quality while keeping the price range suitable for all types of occasions.
A great contender for your date night and one of our favourites in the Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide. Bohemia bar is tucked away in the Lanes, almost missable from the front but opening up inside to three floors and a roof terrace. The interior is stylishly decked out with a gothic opulence, so it’s a bit like going to a modern-day party in an old European castle. Cocktails are an event at Bohemia, featuring dry ice, pyrotechnics and of course plenty of premium quality booze. A decadent choice if you’re looking for romantic restaurants in Brighton, or pre meal cocktails also. This venue offers everything, great food, Brighton afternoon teas and its easier for time to fly away with you in here.
If starting the date right is essential, beginning with Bar Valentino will be a win. This North Laine based speakeasy style cocktail bar is sexy and fun and offers just the right amount of exclusivity to feel super special while keeping a laidback quality. The Deco inspired interiors are the ideal setting to enjoy a romantic drink or two with a date and while the mood takes you, the balcony offers that extra sparkle for you to woo with a view. A strong choice if you are looking for a romantic cocktail bar, before you visit the romantic restaurant.
For an unforgettable date night or a charming first encounter, Blossoms Brighton emerges as the quintessential choice. Aptly dubbed the ‘izakaya’ of the Lanes, it offers a laid-back ambiance fused with Japanese allure. Adorned in rich, dark hues and inspired by Japanese aesthetics, the venue boasts a variety of seating arrangements – from high tables for a casual perch to cosy booths for intimate moments. Whether your evening calls for lively chatter over inventive cocktails and shared small plates or a quiet escape to savour quality time together, Blossoms promises a delightful experience tailored to your romantic rendezvous.
Brighton Romantic Restaurants to Impress
If you’re looking for a restaurant to impress someone special then Wild Flor is a great option. With its French elegance, luxurious food and world-class wine list, Wild Flor offers its guests a space to enjoy a truly romantic dining experience. The team have known each other for many years, coming from a background of the acclaimed Gingerman Group, and it is this that shows in their polished and seamless approach to dining. So, rest assured that you’ll be in good hands.
Dilsk Brighton is an elegant and romantic restaurant that champions sustainable practices and seasonal produce. The contemporary and simplistic styling, modern lighting pieces, and minimal decor create an intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic date. Chef Tom Stephens menu features an impressive five or ten-courses that showcases unwavering commitment to sustainability and quality. The restaurant also offers a tantalising cocktail menu, impeccable wine pairing, and an exceptional alcohol-free range, providing an excellent experience for all diners.
On the charming high street in picturesque Lindfield, you’ll find romantic Le Flamant. This elegant restaurant and wine bar offers an intimate setting, a warm, heartfelt welcome, and beautifully crafted French-inspired small plates made for sharing. An international wine list from Butler’s Wine Cellar – most available by the glass – adds to the magic. Take your time, linger a little longer. One dessert, two spoons.
Everything about English’s of Brighton whispers romance. There’s romance in the restaurant’s history, its position, its attitude; the quiet, secluded dining room with its earthy tones and starched linen, the discreet service and glamorous clientele. Meet your lover, take two seats at the bar, order a sharing platter of delicious seafood or just a plate of oysters and a glass of fizz, a decadent dessert, two spoons. Taxi!
Experience a romantic night out or a memorable date night at The Fig Tree in the charming Sussex village of Hurstpierpoint. Indulge in the excitement of their exquisite 6-course tasting menu, crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients. Make it extra special by including their wine flight option. The Fig Tree provides the perfect setting for an intimate and enchanting evening, allowing you to create lasting memories and try something new.
Pearly Cow Brighton is the perfect spot for a romantic date night. With its stunning seafront location opposite the iconic West Pier, the restaurant exudes charm and elegance. Inside, the sumptuous interiors create a warm, intimate atmosphere ideal for special evenings or hot dates.
The menu, crafted by chef Andy MacKenzie, showcases indulgent 45-day salt-aged steaks, locally caught seafood, and seasonal dishes that are a testament to Brighton’s unique flavours. Paired with expertly crafted cocktails and fine wines, Pearly Cow offers a dining experience that’s both memorable and romantic.
Fourth and Church in Hove is a local neighbourhood restaurant serving a mix of flexible dining and quality. It’s informal enough for you to settle into really enjoying your company, while the quality of the food makes for a strong talking point. Small dishes are naturally designed for sharing and the wine list is carefully selected from small yield producers that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else. They’re also an off-license, so you can always pick up a bottle on your way out to finish your evening at home.
Steven Edward’s Etch has been voted Brighton’s Best Restaurant , he’s a Masterchef winner, as well as receiving multiple national accolades and awards. The tasting menu is a celebration of local and seasonal produce with each dish showcasing only two ingredients. Unusually Steven doesn’t use any spice to flavour his dishes, not even pepper, instead flavour is controlled through concentration and reduction to create unique and authentically flavoursome dishes. Michelin featured restaurant and one of our favourite restaurants for a romantic date night in Brighton.
Tutto Brighton offers an authentic slice of Italy here in our city centre. The impressive restaurant is set in a magnificently reclaimed 1930s bank building, boasts chic Deco interiors and creates an open-armed ambience that’ll make a magical backdrop for every romantic occasion. The menu is designed for sharing and is split into sections that include raw and crudo dishes, pasta, meat and fish from the wood-fired grill, and there’s a divine selection of desserts for you to share (or not share). There is also the choice of a set menu, vegan menu and gluten-free menu. You can enjoy a tipple or two from their thoughtfully curated Italian cocktail and wine list and weather permitting, dine al fresco on the large street terrace and watch our slice of the world go by.
For some extra je ne sais quoi, head to Petit Pois. This intimate Lanes based restaurant is acclaimed and well regarded as one of the best in the city. Serving quintessentially French cuisine and an exquisite wine list of the same origin. France is renowned for its romance – the stunning French bistro does not let the team down!
Dubbed as the place for grown-up socials, Burnt Orange is the youngest sister in the triad of acclaimed Brighton restaurants, including The Coal Shed and The Salt Room. Table reservations for here are in high demand. So, if you do manage to bag a reservation you can be pretty certain that your guest will be impressed. Expect sublime seasonal small plates of modern cuisine, a wine list that is second to none and cocktails crafted with exemplary expertise that’ll have you back in line in no time! Winner of the Best restaurant category in 2022, so a necessary inclusion in the Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide.
Romance comes with a view at Rockwater. Idyllically positioned on Hove’s stunning stretch of coast, with three main dining areas and fronted by a number of cafe beach huts, there really is something for everyone. The Roof Terrace, Rockwater’s top-floor restaurant is the cherry on this impressive venue. A breath-taking setting for a date night, romantic brunch or lunch, it boasts stunning views of the sea from the large open-air terrace and the enticing menu includes a fine selection of small and sharing plates from sea and land. There’s also a very well-considered wine list to peruse as you lose yourself in the unbeatable views and beautiful company.
When you’re looking to impress, few things hit the sweet spot more than the surprise factor of a restaurant that’s a hidden gem. The busy, always bustling North Street hardly seems the spot for an intimate rendezvous, but step inside Lavash and head upstairs and you’ll be instantly transported to a beautiful secluded oasis. Here you’ll find authentic freshly prepared Middle Eastern cuisine. Sharing platters are a must for date nights and here you’ll find a selection of meat, vegetarian and vegan options. They have a small but quality selection of wine and beers to help lubricate the evening. But mostly it’s that sense of being cocooned away from Brighton’s hubbub that sets the heart to flutter.
Following the success of The Coal Shed, restaurateur, Raz Helalat expanded his empire in February 2015 promising a seafood restaurant that would rival the best in the city. Cue The Salt Room, a modern British seafood and and grill restaurant and possibly the most talked-about eaterie of 2015. If you fancy a spot of wining and dining with a view make sure to request a window seat when booking where you can look straight out onto the West Pier – especially beautiful at sunset. In the summer the terrace is open so you can enjoy a cocktail or two before tasting your way through the menu. Oysters anyone?
Treat your loved one to lunch or dinner at Brighton’s restaurant royalty, Terre a Terre and you’ll be guaranteed Brownie points for effort. This Lane based restaurant has been the pioneering go-to destination for elevated Brighton vegetarian cuisine in Brighton since 1993 and has received Michelin approval for their efforts. If the sound of ‘no fuss fine dining’ on modern British dishes and supping on organic wines tugs on your heart strings, then book now for ultimate vegetarian indulgence. Recently voted as one of the best restaurants for vegans by the Financial Times, one of the flagships in our Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide.
What better place for a romantic date night than the newly reopened Coal Shed on North Street, debuting in 2024? The restaurant features an elevated menu from restaurateur Razak Helalat and Executive Chef Lee Murdoch. While flame-grilled beef remains at its core, Murdoch extends this technique to other meats, hearty vegetables, and a variety of vegan options. The menu is further enhanced by robata oven-cooked breads, snacks, and small plates. Drawing from its coastal location, it also offers a selection of raw and flame-cooked seafood, including a luxurious Sturia caviar selection. Part of The Salt Room, Burnt Orange and Tutto group of restaurants.
Duncan Ray’s Little Fish Market is one of Brighton’s most esteemed restaurants and has is perhaps the highest placed finisher overall in the Brightons Best restaurant category. The tasting menu is refined and creative, the restaurant itself has only 20 covers and, unusually for a restaurant of this size, the table is reserved for the diners for the whole night. So you can really take your time and even linger a while after, over wine conversation.
The scale of the set-up in conjunction with the scale of the reputation means The Little Fish Market is one to be planned in advance, don’t call up on February 12th expecting to reserve a table for Valentine’s day.
Casual and quality | The Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide
Poco in Alfriston is an ideal spot for a romantic night out, offering a unique and special experience that’s well-known among locals. Nestled in the picturesque village of Alfriston, it’s perfect for a scenic walk along the river before or after dining. Poco’s menu features Italian recipes passed down through generations, and their wine cellar boasts exclusive selections. While tables are communal, the warm ambiance, exceptional Italian dishes, attentive service, and occasional live guitar music create a charming atmosphere that makes Poco a memorable choice for a date night. Also a stunning option for a sharing Sunday roast (served seasonally so check availability ahead of time).
IL Bistro is the perfect setting for a romantic meal in Brighton. Tucked away in the historic Lanes, this intimate Brighton restaurant is housed in an 18th-century fisherman’s cottage, giving it a cosy and secluded feel.
From the moment you step inside, the warm greeting and candlelit atmosphere make it feel like a special place.
With nearly 50 years of experience serving flavourful French and Italian cuisine, IL Bistro is an ideal spot for a date night, an anniversary, or any occasion that calls for a little romance.
Next to The Theatre Royal and a stone’s throw away from The Pavilion Gardens, Tinto Taperia is situated perfectly to catch the romance of the heart of Brighton’s bustling North Laine. This exquisite restaurant serves Spanish cuisine. You can expect an authentic selection of tapas, seasonal specials and freshly prepared paella, all perfect for sharing and ideal date food. From the drinks, you’ll find a fantastic selection of wines, fortified wines and Spanish spirits, such as paired gin and tonic. And should your date be going well, then you can head upstairs to Bar Valentino, Tinto Taperia’s sister bar serving bespoke and award-winning cocktails.
Brighton Regency Routemaster provides a romantic setting that’s out of the ordinary, beautifully nostalgic and downright delicious. Take a ride in their stunning restored 1960s Routemaster and experience Brighton’s most iconic and historic sites, while being serenaded by 60s classics. Savouring a traditional British or Brighton afternoon tea on an original Routemaster will certainly be a date to remember. The afternoon tea is made up of lashings of homemade sweet pastries, savoury patisseries, cakes and sandwiches. They’re available for all dietary requirements and to top off, you’ll have the option of adding the extra fizz of Prosecco or a Brighton Gin cocktail, to accompany your journey. A quirky addition to the Romantic Restaurants Brighton Guide.
Take your date on a (culinary) trip to Med by whisking them away to Nosto, Hove. Regarded as a top Greek restaurant in Brighton and quite frankly living up to its reputation. The food here is sublime, deliciously authentic and brings big flavours and vibrancy off the plate! Definitely, a winner with local food lovers, why not see if the cuisine can work its magic on your intended? A great choice for a romantic restaurant in Brighton as the service and food will remind you of being somewhere abroad on holiday.
Brighton Japanese restaurant Moshimo is designed around the shoji aesthetic. With the appearance of paper screen walls and booths divided by red perspex there’s an air of mystery as fellow diners are blurred out. Sushi lovers and animal lovers can all enjoy Moshimo, whose menu excludes any endangered fish and is bountiful with vegan, plant only, options. There is also something quite purest and sharing about sushi too. This presents itself as a wonderful choice as a romantic restaurant in Brighton.
Wabi Sabi in Hove is a romantic heaven for couples seeking an intimate dining experience in Brighton and Hove. This enchanting Japanese restaurant exudes an alluring ambiance, perfect for a romantic evening. Immerse yourself in the delicate flavours of Japan with their exquisite sushi, sashimi, and delectable small plates. The elegant and cosy setting, complemented by attentive service, creates an atmosphere of intimacy and warmth.
It’s tough to get more romantic than the Brighton igloos at Coppa Club. However, they’re notoriously hard to acquire. If you managed to bag one for Valentine’s day we commend you. If you didn’t then don’t fret, the other seating options here also offer an exemplary setting for romance. Dine fountain side or inside the modern and stylish restaurant. Expect modern European cuisine, fine wines and classic cocktails.
Kindling steakhouse, nestled in Brighton’s Lanes, is perfect for a romantic night out or a date night. Delight in their expertly prepared Ribeye or their signature bavette. The House Burger, with double beef patties, tomato & basil sauce, gem lettuce, smoked streaky bacon, and Emmental in a brioche bun, is a must-try. The open kitchen adds an element of theatre, making your evening sensory and memorable. Its central location ensures easy access to a night of culinary excellence and ambiance.
With their lush interiors decked out with plants and homey decor, you and your plus one can get cosy in one of their booths or outside during the golden hour and sip on delicious cocktails to start, followed by a plant-based feast. Choose from a selection of small plates to share; we love the Panko Cauliflower. Alternatively, opt for one of their larger plates. Finish with something sweet, like the Sticky Toffee Pudding with miso caramel—yes, please! Or perhaps try their Peanut Butter Espresso Martini.
Fatto a Mano is a romantic place to visit, perfect for sharing delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas together. The relaxed vibe reduces pressure, allowing for a more enjoyable evening. Start with aperitivos, setting the tone for a delightful night. Their pizzas, known for thin, soft, and chewy crusts with fresh toppings, are ideal for sharing. With locations in Hove on Church Road, Preston Circus on London Road, and North Laine on Gloucester Road, each venue offers a unique ambiance, making it a lovely setting for a romantic date across Brighton and Hove.
Hidden Romantic Gems
There’s a romanticism about anything to do with honey, and Apiary is a wonderful place to treat your special one. Its uniqueness and love for bees create a charming atmosphere. Sharing plates make it perfect for couples, and the cracking cocktail list enhances the experience. Apiary is a unique all-day café and bar in Brighton, inspired by bees, honey, and everything from the hive. Centrally located opposite Norfolk Square, Apiary is the go-to spot for quality cocktails, wine, mead, and local honey.
Lovers head to Lost in the Lanes for some exquisite all-day dining. The attention to detail at this intimate Lanes based cafe is stunning and it’s a sparkling setting for a special occasion. Simplicity at its finest – Lost serves brunches, alongside tempting countertop treats and a menu of seasonally changing dishes. The ingredients used throughout the menus are well-sourced and of top standard. This is evident in the resulting quality and flavour of the food and drinks.
Romance means different things to different people, but in the case of Furna, it means elegance, refinement and intimacy. The friendly team will be happy to find you just the right corner so that together you can enjoy the low, golden lighting, gorgeous ambiance and culinary magic of Dave Mothersill’s nine-course tasting menu. And, if it just so happens you have something to toast, the wine list is out of this world. Here’s to love we say!
Experience a romantic night out or a memorable date night at The Fig Tree in the charming Sussex village of Hurstpierpoint. Immerse yourself in a delightful culinary journey, where impeccable service and attention to detail create a special occasion atmosphere. Indulge in the excitement of their exquisite 6-course tasting menu, crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients. Make it extra special by including their wine flight option. The Fig Tree provides the perfect setting for an intimate and enchanting evening, allowing you to create lasting memories and try something new.
Located on the popular throng of Hove High Street and offering a specialist menu of first class wine, cheese and charcuterie. Cases, Curds and Whey was set up by a dream team of chef Phil Bartley and sommelier Steve Pineau. You can rest assured that the dining experience here is one worthy of your intended. The deli style layout, vast variety of nibbles and tipples and the intimate setting may lure you into a long and leisurely experience, perfect for grazing on while you really get to know each other.
If your Heading out of town for a romantic day in the stunning Sussex countryside then Hurstpierpoint should be a stop point on your map. The quintessential English town is a chocolate box treasure. Boutiques line the streets and the foodie treats on offer at The New Inn will make the trip even more enjoyable. The Sussex-led seasonally changing menu is ripe with unique dishes of exceptional quality. The wine list is matched with equal quality and offers a fantastic selection of locally sourced wines for you and your loved one to enjoy.
Head to Mange Tout for a top spot for some daytime dating. This delightful and acclaimed French bistro is located in Brighton’s North Laine. Light, inviting and with a naturally buzzy atmosphere. We definitely recommend here for brunches or light lunches with a glass of something special from their impeccably curated wine list.
The Urchin pub in Hove is a spot for lovers who are lovers of craft beer and seafood. This little independent is a gem in the city, loved locally and nationally. The basement micro-brewery produces Willy Wonka style concoctions for adult consumption that regularly change, as well as a host of guest independent ales and beers. While The Urchin is serious about good beer and good seafood, this is also a really joyous place to go, no pretences, just good living.
In the heart of Brighton’s historic Lanes, Chilli restaurant is made for unforgettable date nights. With its cosy low light ambiance and intimate setting, it’s the perfect backdrop for romance. Share authentic and exciting Thai dishes with a creative twist, inspired by the team’s travels to Thailand and crafted by generational Thai chefs. Add a little more spice to your night by indulging in a bespoke cocktail or two or tame the flame with a cold pint of Singha. Chilli Brighton offers a memorable experience full of great food, charm and romantic vibes – everything you need for a perfect evening together.
Swing down to Market in Hove with your amor for a truly romantic dining experience. Sit side by side at the bar and watch hospitality theatrics whilst sipping on a cocktail del dia, or opt for a more intimate restaurant table where you and your date can spend hours sat eye to eye, sharing tapas-style small plates and bottles of succulent vino. Wednesday evenings at Market are marked as Date Night – where you and your guest can enjoy a special set menu designed for two for only £25 each!
For your next date night, whether it’s a first date or an anniversary celebration, the Dishoom Permit Room in the Lanes is an ideal choice. The warm and relaxed vibe, accompanied by the scent of incense and great music, sets the perfect atmosphere. The welcoming team ensures you feel at home. Beyond the great ambiance, the food – featuring shareable small plates – and their crafted cocktails make it the perfect spot for a memorable date night. You’ll be eager to book your next visit!
Romantic Restaurants with accommodation
Malmaison on Brighton Marina offers the ultimate romantic date night experience, making it arguably the most stunning boutique hotel in Brighton. Start your evening in their amazing lounge and cocktail area, where you can soak in the breathtaking views over Brighton Marina and enjoy one of their exquisite afternoon teas. Then, savour contemporary dining and signature cocktails at The Malmaison Bar & Grill. Here, grilled food is the star of the show with well-matured, choice cuts like Flat Iron Steak, New York Strip and Fillet cooked to perfection with sumptuous sauce choices and sides. To complete your experience, stay overnight in their ocean-front rooms featuring modern décor, stylish furnishings, and super cool vibes.
Morleys Bistro in Hurstpierpoint offers a complete package for a romantic break with Bed and Breakfast also available. The menu is modern European with a strong emphasis on locally sourced, quality ingredients. Hurstpierpoint and the surrounding areas have plenty to explore, from arts and crafts and antique shops to local nature walks and vineyards, making for a complete weekend break.
Set on Brighton’s stunning Brighton seafront strip and exuding Victorian grandeur, The Grand hotel will never fail to impress. Head here for your date, get-away or romantic rendezvous. Cyan, the stunning resident restaurant, is gorgeous and relaxed with a sensational menu. Walking through those doors at The Grand and up in to Cyan will set you up for a great date. If you want something a little more casual, but equally impressive, choose a delicious afternoon tea with platefuls of delight in the Victorian Terrace.
