Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Best Fish and Chips in Brighton
Our top picks
Brighton Fish and Chips | A Local's Guide to the Best in the City
The guide for the best fish and chips in Brighton. Seafront restaurants to trendy alfresco hang-outs, Brighton has it all.
With such auspicious origins, Brighton and Hove has a lot to live up to when it comes to fish and chips. Luckily for us the city has got every base covered. Below is our listing of the best places to get your fix across the city so look no further than our guide to the best fish and chips in Brighton.
You may also like our fish restaurants round up and our recommendations for where to find a lobster restaurant.
Fish and Chips beside the seaside
One of the best views along the Brighton seafront and located just a stones throw away from Brighton pier. A place to sit and enjoy the perfect views of the sunset to the west and a glorious spot to soak up the suns rays in the summer months. Often lively and popular, you can enjoy their adults or kids portion classic fish and chips whilst pretty much being sat on the beach but with all the comfort of a pub. Possibly the best fish and chips in Brighton when you think about location and you are situated on the beach in between the two piers.
The Watershed is located on the west jetty of the inner harbour and a Brighton marina restaurant with water-edge seating and western views. The bar and eatery is modern and fresh, serving hand made locally sourced food. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying fish and chips with views over the docked yachts and plenty of local ales and a good wine list to wash it down with.
Indulge in a seaside classic with a touch of sophistication at Cyan restaurant in the Grand Hotel Brighton. Their fish and chips offering features expertly cooked fish, encased in a crisp, golden batter, served alongside perfectly seasoned chunky chips. This refined take on a beloved dish allows you to enjoy traditional flavors in a luxurious setting, overlooking the stunning Brighton seafront. Cyan’s fish and chips is a delightful blend of tradition and elegance, making it a must-try culinary experience during your visit to the city.
Few restaurants can boast positive reviews from Jay Rayner, Rick Stein and a cult following in China. The Regency has all three, and their fun no frills bistro style dishes are deserving of the accolades. Here you can have pretty much any fish you desire either battered, grilled or fried with chips or salad. It is cheap and cheerful food which is exactly what fish and chips is all about. With fantastic views of the West Pier and BAi360 the seafront views are decent too. 100% the best fish and chips Brighton according to their growing Asian fan base, where a famous Asian food blogger visited years ago and has no firmly put the Regency on the map. Located next to Preston Street.
Fish and Chips in the city
First in our best fish and chips Brighton guide. The Hove Place is a popular casual Bistro Pub in the heart of Hove, close to the seafront located just off Church Road in the Palmeira Square area. With a strong emphasis on service, this venue now offers a front terrace as well as a rear garden and it is arguably one of the larger outdoor seating areas in the whole of Hove, perfect for relaxed alfresco dining enjoying fresh and generous portions of fish & chips. Some of the best fish and chips Brighton has to offer, prepared by Phil Bartley and his team.
The Basketmakers Arms is a popular traditional Brighton pub in the very heart of the North Laine. Their menu is classic pub fare done well, with quality ingredients at the heart of what they do. There’s a specials menu and it’s always worth noting the freshly landed seafood dishes that tend to appear here and take advantage of our locality next to the sea. A fixed option on the menu is locally caught fish battered in Hophead beer batter and hand-cut chips. There’s also a vegan battered tofu and nori as a fishless alternative to the seaside staple.
One of Brighton’s best known pubs, the Black Lion Brighton, is situated in the heart of The Lanes just near the seafront on Black Lion Street. Not only does the Black Lion have a good reputation for a music filled night out, their varied food menu is also an attraction and their fish and chips is a great shout. Try a pint of one of the fine ales they serve and watch the world go by here, perfect!
A wise person once said there is no greater taste combination than English fish and chips with French Champagne. There is a definite decadence to the experience, a sort of throw away exuberance, but it works. If you’re going to go for the full-on experience then Bohemia’s Veuve Clicquot roof terrace and “Famous Fish ‘n’ Chips” with locally caught fish, hand cut chips and mushy peas is probably the place to do it. Also a great hang-out for a Brighton afternoon tea.
If you find yourself amongst the hustle and bustle of the North Laine and craving a plate of the British classic fish and chips, The Dorset is where you need to be. They take their fish and chip game to the next level, serving a local ale-battered cod with triple cooked chips, crushed minted peas and tartare sauce. But it doesn’t end there, with their vegan alternative, the tempura banana blossom, which comes with all the trimmings and is perfect so nobody misses out!
Experience a quintessential British treat at The Cricketers pub in Brighton’s Lanes with their mouthwatering battered fish & chips. Delight in the expertly prepared battered cod loin, boasting a satisfying crunch, paired harmoniously with generous portions of chunky chips. The meal is completed with traditional mushy peas and a zesty tartar sauce that perfectly complements the flavours. Immerse yourself in the cosy ambiance of the Brighton pub while savouring this iconic dish, which captures the essence of seaside dining in the heart of Brighton.
Brighton’s oldest seafood restaurant can be found in the famous winding lanes. English’s is a stalwart of the city’s dining scene and their commitment to serving the freshest most seasonal fish in town has not wavered. It is testament to English’s heritage that you can still find a class fish and chips on the menu alongside the more luxurious options. They also have a children’s option and you can add a voluntary 50p donation to the fishermen’s mission with you order.
Fish and chip shops
Bardsley's
Located on Baker Street in Brighton and close to the Brighton Open Market, this fish and chips spot is a true community hub known for its exceptional reputation.
Whether you choose to dine in or opt for a takeaway, their delicious offerings are sure to satisfy your craving for classic fish and chips. With a longstanding presence and a super strong reputation in the city, this fish and chip shop in The Level/ London Road area has become a go-to destination for those seeking a scrumptious meal that embodies the essence of traditional British cuisine.
Experience a true Brighton institution at Bankers Fish & Chips.
Located opposite Norfolk Square, this iconic spot offers not only delicious fish and chips but also the choice to dine in their welcoming Brighton restaurant or take away for a taste of the sea on the go.
With a rich history and a prime location, Bankers Fish & Chips is the go-to destination for a quintessential seaside dining experience in Brighton. Our top tip is to order to takeaway and go and sit on the seafront pebbles and enjoy. This chip shop is in the top three chip shops in the city.
Sea Breeze
Situated on Southover Street in Hanover, Sea Breeze is an iconic fish and chip shop that has captured the hearts of the local Hanover community.
With its strong menu featuring classic fish and chips, shish kebabs, and burgers, Sea Breeze offers a delightful selection of choices. Renowned for its warm and friendly service, this cherished spot has become a go-to for both satisfying meals and community vibes in the burbs of Brighton. A great place to visit if you want to visit this hot spot for Brighton pubs also.
Wolfies of Hove
Wolfies Fish & Chips in Hove is a must-visit destination for those in search of the finest fish and chips experience. Conveniently situated near Hove railway station, it has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. With a reputation for excellence, Wolfies offers a delectable selection of perfectly battered fish and golden chips, making it a cherished destination for classic British comfort food. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, Wolfies promises a satisfying and memorable dining experience in the heart of Hove.
Little Jack Fullers
Located on St Jame’s Street in Kemptown, Brighton, Little Jack Fullers Fish and Chips is a beloved destination, especially for those seeking a seaside treat. Its popularity owes to its proximity to the seafront, making it a perfect stop for traditional fish and chips cravings. Notably, they also offer a vegan-friendly version of this classic dish, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. With its inviting atmosphere and commitment to both tradition and innovation, Little Jack Fullers has earned its place as a local favorite in Brighton’s vibrant food scene.
Q
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- OhSo Social
- Cyan at The Grand Brighton
- Rockwater
- Lucky Beach
- The Watershed
One of the nicest things you can do in Brighton is sit on the seafront with your fish and chips in a paper bag, while watching the world go by. This is best enjoyed on the pebbles, but OhSo, Lucky Beach and Cyan all offer incredible south-facing views.
Other fish and chip options could be to visit the bustling Lanes and enjoy a pint and fish and chips at the Black Lion or Bohemia.
If you are in the North Laine then the Basket Makers is a quality real ale pub, offering a friendly atmosphere and a real hub of energy and banter.
The cult burger joint, MEATliquor, is serving uncompromisingly tasty burgers on York Place every day and night seven days a week. Their burgers range from naughty, saucy to devilishly delicious and are available in beef, chicken or veggie and plant-based varieties. There’s no shortage of sides to pair your burger with and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to drinks to wash it down with. Liquor by name liquor by nature, the Brighton cocktails served here go from boozy to super boozy! Super popular concept, is this the best burger in Brighton?
Discover a burst of flavours at Arcobaleno, a cafe-bar and restaurant located in the heart of Kemptown. Indulge in their mouth-watering Arco Burgers, served with a vibrant Rainbow Slaw and refreshing pint of draft beer for £15.
They offer vegan options too – ensuring everyone can enjoy an Arco burger! Don’t miss out on this fantastic daily offer available from 5pm-9pm. Arcobaleno is a GBTQ+ Café, Gay Bar and events space and is the talk of the town in what used to be a bank building.
Burgers at Rum Kitchen are all freshly made with quality produce and come in three flavours, each celebrating the feel-good flavours of the Caribbean. Choose from jerk chicken with barbecue sauce and scotch bonnet mayo. Rum-glazed pulled pork with pickled slaw, crispy chillies and scotch bonnet and spring onion aioli. Or for the plant-only burger eaters there’s Appleton rum-glazed jackfruit with slaw, ackee and spring onion aioli. All come with skinny chips and are best washed down with one of their fabulous specialist rum cocktails.
Lost Boys Land on London Road is the stand-alone chicken shop from the locally acclaimed, multi-BRAVO winning Lost Boys. Chicken is given the full works, made super succulent with buttermilk and breaded with their secret Southern spice mix.
Top that off with their finger-licking good homemade sauces for a chicken shop burger that’s a cut above the rest. This place has to be on your list as possibly the best burger in Brighton.
The Dorset, in the heart of the North Laine, is a Brighton institution that has been serving locals since 1819. It’s no surprise then that in that time they’ve learnt what makes for a good burger to match with your pint. They opt for burgers of a dirty variety, saucy and satisfying with strong options for plant and meat lovers. All burgers come served with chunky chips and coleslaw as standard. During the summer weekends the streetside seating is perfect for feasting, meeting and taking in the colourful sights and sounds of city.
The Mes serves burgers with a difference, so if the classics are wearing thin and you want something exotic and playful, then the exciting creations from UmamiNation will float your boat.
Think classic burger, chicken or beef and add some Asian influence. The Korean sauce, soy pickled gherkin and miso mayo will get your taste buds dancing. There are also three varieties of Bao Bun – which we know aren’t technically burgers – but they are too tasty not to mention.
Try a burger with a difference at Curry Leaf Cafe. Their burger buns, or ‘Pavs’ – the Indian word for stuffed roll – come filled with either Chicken 65 (crisp-fried boneless chicken thigh coated in spiced batter), or Mushroom Manchurian, deep-fried mushrooms glazed in a sticky, sweet & sour IndoChinese sauce. The brioche buns are sourced fresh from The Flour Pot Bakery, and heat seekers have the option of adding Kolkata kimchi to their Pav for an extra kick. Want fries with that? At Curry Leaf Cafe, they come dusted with chaat masala & chilli powder. Be warned: they’re seriously moreish!”
This historic Brighton Lanes pub serves up a selection of burgers from the locally renowned kitchen of Phil Bartley. Phil is the man behind The Great British Charcuterie, so you know these burgers are going to be stuffed with the finest quality meats, cheese and extras sourced from artisan producers. Choose from a beef, chicken, vegan or halloumi burger – all served in a brioche bun with chunky chips. This place is a burger haven and Phil makes some of the best burgers in Brighton.
If quality is your top concern when it comes to your burger, you can be sure that Brighton’s premier steak restaurant is going to deliver. The Coal Shed may feature a mouth-watering array of sensational steaks, but their burger offering is a serious option for any meal. The Coal Shed is regularly named in the top restaurants in Brighton, and as one of the best in the UK, making this a high-end burger experience. Do they make the best burger in Brighton, you will have to pay them a visit and find out. Burgers are often a special on the Coal Shed express menu for lunch.
Burger-by-sea | The Best Burgers by-the-sea
DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole is a fantastic destination for enjoying a delicious burger by the sea. Their menu features an array of mouthwatering burger options, including the classic Metropole Burger made with prime beef and served with all the traditional burger accessories. For those seeking unique flavours, the menu also offers specialty burgers like the Spicy BBQ Bacon Burger or the Vegan Beyond Burger. With its picturesque seafront restaurant location and delectable burger offerings, the Metropole Bar provides a delightful dining experience for burger enthusiasts looking to savour their meal with a view.
Brighton’s little slice of New York, The New Club, is a burger lover’s heaven. With stunning views of the promenade and i360, great food and tasty cocktails this place has got it all. They’ve been recommended in Shortlist Magazine, Waitrose Magazine and both The Times and Sunday Times as one of Brighton’s best spots. Quality, locally sourced and freshly prepared food is the order of the day. The New Club is one of Brighton’s best loved burger spots, all served with a little bit of New York swagger, with a sidewalk overlooking some magnificent Brighton seafront views.
Ohso Social is in a prime location on the beach and next to the pier. They serve up a choice of burgers. From the classic, to a plant burger, or beef and pork patty.. Find a seat at Ohso Social, order your favourite drink and enjoy your burger with the view of the sea, soaking up the beach atmosphere.
Ohso is also super child friendly. It falls onto the shores of Brighton beach and they host a number of Brighton live events in the summer so keep an eye out for these. Check their website too and look out for the Brighton igloos for the colder months.
Shelter Hall has two great burger options. Patty Guy from Masterchef 2018 winner, Kenny Tutt serves smashed burgers that are next level indulgent, while at the same time being a quality spin on nostalgic Americana sandwich menu. There’s also Chick’ n’ Bun which serves up delicious American-inspired fried chicken burgers. Enjoy your burger with a sea view from their terrace! Shelter Hall is an amazing place to visit in Brighton with seven different kitchens, so you must go if you haven’t been; please be aware their food offerings rotate so check in advance which food offering is available each month.
From Hamburg to Hove | Best Burgers in Hove
Featuring a locally sourced and seasonal menu, The Better Half is a Hove pub that likes to stick to its traditions but with a contemporary twist. This characterful pub is a hidden gem. The quirky, yet comfortable, interior and warm welcome entice you in. On the menu, you will find The Better Half Burger Menu with a choice of five burgers including a vegan choice and optional extras. Everything is 100% homemade, from the buns through to the relish, and you can tell. They all come with coleslaw and fries. Choose from the classic, pulled pork, chicken or vegan patty. You can add extra toppings such as bacon, blue cheese and onion rings to make a real showstopper of a burger.
Hove Place is a popular gem of a Hove gastro-pub with a menu that mixes pub classics with finessed bistro dining, so burger wise you can set your expectations high. These are burgers pushed to the edge of classic where they bump nicely against contemporary. Try local Trenchmore Wagyu beef with chipotle relish and beer braised onions or free range chicken thigh with Xo mayonnaise, coconut and Asian sesame slaw. Hove Place also boats one of the best beer gardens in Hove in addition to their incredible burgers. Dog friendly, child friendly and if someone else wants to enjoy a different menu item then it has all the pub classics like fish and chips, charcuterie platters.
The Poets Ale and Smokehouse (Hove neighbourhood pub) takes meat seriously. Head Chef, Mark, hand selects local meats and game and they butcher and smoke in-house. Burgers are packed with smokey flavour and finger-liking BBQ sauces. These burgers swell in proportion from the Plain Poets Patty, a simple beef steak patty classic, to The Texas Chainsauce Massacre, a beef steak patty, smoked brisket, melted cheese, jalapenos and BBQ sauce and Korean Chicken Cruncher with breaded thigh, Korean sauce and sweet chilli. There’s a smoked vegan beetroot burger and a seitan and mushroom burger that’s vegetarian. Two for one burger offers are currently available every Monday. Please check their menu for updates before you go.
Burgers in the 'burbs
The Ladies Mile pub in Patcham is a place that combines a warm family atmosphere and excellent quality pub grub. The menu contains a dedicated section for burgers with five options available. Classics are available such as the 6oz steak burger or chicken burger, there’s also a vegan Moving Mountains burger – all served in a brioche bun with skinny chips and salad.
The Ladies Mile is a 1930’s neighbourhood pub located a couple of minutes off London road in Patcham. It has all the live sports, it’s a great place to watch the football in Brighton and has a lovely beer garden.
