Sussex’s Best Restaurants 2026 – Top-Rated Dining Destinations You Need to Try
If you’re looking for the best restaurant in Sussex, you’re in the right place. Sussex’s thriving food scene is inspired by award-winning vineyards, abundant local produce, and a vibrant spirit of independence. From stunning countryside dining spots to charming county towns like Lewes, Hurstpierpoint, Worthing, and Alfriston, there’s just so much to explore.
Congratulations to this year’s BRAVO winner – Andalucia in Ferring – and to all the fantastic restaurants shortlisted in 2026. Now, head out there and discover all that this beautiful county has to offer.
First place
This stylish Spanish destination brings the tantalising taste of classic tapas to the Sussex coast to take the top spot. Premium ingredients, including fine Jamón Ibérico Bellota and Iberian charcuterie, are matched by carefully selected wines, Spanish lagers and fabulous cocktails. The Sunday sharing paella is a popular standout.
Also placed 14th for Best Hospitality Team.
Second place
The historic Worthing promenade is home to Crabshack, a much-loved, family-run seafood restaurant that hits the spot time and again. With a menu showcasing the daily catch from the Sussex coast, you’ll find seasonal ingredients, daily specials and fresh shellfish. Deliciously tempting and always worth the trip to this Worthing restaurant, – you’ll find a warm welcome too.
8th in Best Wine List in Sussex, 16th in Best Hospitality Team.
Third place
An authentic taste of Italy in the heart of one of Sussex’s most beautiful villages, Poco sources ingredients for lunch and dinner from within 18 miles of this Alfriston restaurant. This hyper-local approach creates exciting dishes that really sing. This year’s Best Wine List winner, Poco also offers brilliantly thoughtful pairings and your favourite wines can be acquired from the bottle shop to take home.
Winner of The Best Wine List in Sussex.
Fourth place
Another win for Worthing restaurants, Saltio is a cool seafront taqueria and mezcaleria that hits all the right spots. By using locally sourced and authentic Mexican ingredients, Saltio has the feel of a vibrant street market and the bold flavours to match. Order the Elote Street Corn, Ceviche Tostadas and Barbacoa Chicken. Mouthwatering, much?
Fifth Place
Squisito is a standout among Sussex restaurants, located in the Needlemakers in Lewes, and voted 5th Best Restaurant in Sussex at the BRAVO Awards 2026. This relaxed, Italian-inspired spot focuses on seasonal, ingredient-led cooking, with dishes like fresh pasta, gnocchi, seafood plates, and focaccia. Expect simple, flavour-driven food made with local Sussex produce, alongside a welcoming atmosphere that suits everything from casual lunches to evening dining. It’s a strong example of the quality and creativity found across restaurants in Sussex today.
Sixth place
Le Flamant is a standout among Sussex restaurants, located in Lindfield and offering a cosy, stylish setting with modern European flair. This intimate spot serves seasonal sharing plates, from scallops and monkfish to creative small plates, all designed for relaxed dining. A carefully curated wine list featuring Sussex producers adds to the experience. As one of the rising restaurants in Sussex, it combines quality ingredients, thoughtful cooking, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Mid Sussex.
seventh Place
Set at the foot of the South Downs near Henfield, Terra at Tottington Manor is a destination dining spot among Sussex restaurants. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with modern British dishes, tasting menus, and refined Sussex Sunday roasts. Expect elegant cooking, Sussex wines, and sweeping countryside views from the terrace with fire pits. With private dining options and a relaxed yet sophisticated feel, it stands out as one of the most scenic and memorable restaurants in Sussex.
eighth place
Set in the heart of Hurstpierpoint, The Fig Tree is an elegant destination among Sussex restaurants, known for its refined, seasonal cooking and intimate atmosphere. This family-run restaurant offers ever-changing tasting menus and modern British dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Expect beautifully presented plates such as seafood with delicate herbs, rich game dishes, and inventive vegetarian options. With its calm, light-filled dining room and strong focus on Sussex produce, it stands out as one of the most accomplished and memorable restaurants in Sussex.
Ninth Place
Tucked away in Hurstpierpoint, Village Pizza Kitchen is a popular choice among Sussex restaurants, known for its award-winning artisan pizzas and homemade pasta. Using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, the menu features 72-hour fermented dough for light, flavour-packed pizzas alongside comforting Italian classics. What began as a lockdown takeaway has grown into a cosy, stylish restaurant with a strong community feel. With dine-in and takeaway options, it’s a great example of the quality found across restaurants in Sussex.
Tenth place
Artelium is an exciting new entry among Sussex restaurants, set within a beautiful Sussex vineyard in the South Downs. The kitchen focuses on seasonal, locally sourced dishes, from cured fish to slow-braised meats, designed to pair perfectly with their award-winning English wines.With elegant dining spaces and a sunny terrace overlooking the vines, Artelium offers a refined yet relaxed experience, making it one of the most distinctive restaurants in Sussex for food and wine lovers.
Take a look at your other 2026 BRAVO winners
