Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Italian Restaurants in Brighton
Our top picks
Italian Restaurant Brighton Guide
Looking for the best Italian restaurant Brighton has to offer?
Brighton and Hove boast a huge variety of Italian restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. From cosy Italian osterias to award-winning establishments, the city offers something for every taste with plenty of vegan restaurant options too. Indulge in the exquisite flavours of North Italian fine-dining or enjoy a casual family-friendly meal where your bambinos are warmly welcomed. Savour the authentic taste of Italy with an abundance of pizza, pasta, arancini, and risotto options. Our Brighton Italian restaurants showcase cuisine from various regions, including Lombardy, Tuscany, Campania, and Sicily, ensuring a delightful journey through the diverse aromas of Italy right here on the Sussex coast. Bellissimo!
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Pizza Restaurants in Brighton
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Italian Restaurants in Brighton
Fatto a Mano are a Brighton born, collection of Neapolitan-style pizza restaurants renowned for their genuine Neapolitan pizzas and affordable Italian cuisine. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch, a gluten free pizza, a quick pre-gig bite, or a romantic first date, Fatto a Mano keeps customers coming back for more. With different locations offering different things: some have wood-fired pizza ovens, south-facing alfresco areas, home delivery, and signature marble-topped counters where you can watch talented pizzaiolos in action, Fatto a Mano has it all. Locations include Preston Circus on London Road and North Laine on Gloucester Road. Each pizzeria brings a taste of Naples to Brighton, offering a unique dining experience and making it the go-to spot for delicious, authentic pizza in a relaxed setting.
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.
IL Bistro brings a touch of Italy to Brighton, combining classic Italian flavours with a focus on quality ingredients. As the city’s longest-running independent steakhouse, it serves expertly cooked dry-aged steaks alongside a selection of Italian-inspired seafood and pasta dishes.
Housed in a historic 18th-century fisherman’s cottage, the restaurant offers a warm, intimate setting perfect for enjoying timeless Italian cuisine. With a carefully curated wine list and a passion for traditional cooking, IL Bistro delivers an authentic Italian dining experience.
IL Bistro are winners of the 2024 BRAVOS for the Best Team.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Si Signore, Italian caffé ristorante
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. Part of the Italian Restaurant Brighton guide.
Casalingo, Italian restaurant Brighton
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.
VIP Pizza, Neopolitan Italian restaurant Brighton
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!
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.
Fatto a Mano in Hove, located on Church Road, offers a vibrant alfresco terrace perfect for enjoying their delicious Neapolitan cuisine. Renowned for their Naples style pizzas, some signature options include the classic Margherita, the spicy Diavola, and the flavourful Prosciutto e Funghi. Fatto a Mano also hosts special events like pizza-making workshops and themed evenings, adding to the excitement at this Hove restaurant. Ideal for affordable dining, it’s a fantastic spot to meet friends or bring the family for a delightful meal. Fatto A Mano also has locations in Preston Circus, North Laine and London.
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.
Otello, Wood-fired Italian restaurant
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.
Cafe Zio
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.
Italian Restaurants in Sussex
Step into the soul of Italy at Tavola di Famiglia, Worthing’s warm-hearted Italian restaurant inspired by the Amalfi Coast. From creamy burrata and handmade pasta to slow-cooked ragu and rich tiramisu, every dish is crafted with love and rooted in tradition.
The menu blends locally sourced produce with thoughtfully imported Italian ingredients for a truly authentic taste. Whether it’s a special celebration or a relaxed midweek meal, there’s always a warm welcome and a seat at the family table.
Poco restaurant in Alfriston is a charming Italian eatery located in East Sussex, around half hour from Brighton. This rustic Sussex Italian restaurant offers a unique dining experience, using recipes passed down from their Italian Nona. The menu features a variety of authentic Italian dishes, celebrating traditional flavours with a Sussex twist. Poco also hosts pasta-making classes or events for those eager to learn the art themselves. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate their exclusive selections, handpicked by Jamie, a vineyard hunter who sources rare finds from around the world. Also serves a sharing Sunday sharing roast on Sundays seasonally, so check availability before ahead of time.
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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.
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.
- Al Duomo, next to Royal Pavilion
- Fatto A Mano
- Donatello. The Lanes
- Purezza in Kemptown
- Rockwater in Hove
