Brighton is not just a city; it is a feeling. It is a place defined by its fierce independence, its colourful Lanes, and a culinary scene that punches far above its weight. At the heart of this unique identity are the small, independent businesses that pour their souls into every cup of coffee, every artisan loaf, and every wood-fired roast. For a decade, the BRAVO (Brighton Restaurant Awards Vote Online) Awards have stood as a testament to this passion, creating a legacy of excellence that celebrates the very best of our local community.
As we approach the milestone of #BRAVO2026, the excitement is building strongly. These awards are run by independents, for independents and supported by local Sussex businesses. Voted for by the public, they remain the most authentic reflection of what the Brighton and Sussex community truly loves. In an industry currently facing significant challenges, a vote is more than just a click; it is an endorsement of approval, a badge to celebrate, and a powerful way to inspire positivity among the employers, employees and customers who make Brighton, Hove and Sussex so vibrant.
A Legacy of Local Love
Now in their tenth year, the BRAVOs have become a cornerstone of the Brighton hospitality calendar. They provide a platform for any independent business across Brighton, Hove, and Sussex to be recognised, provided they fit into the diverse range of voting categories. From the brand new best “Sweets and Treats” to the “Plant Champions,” these awards highlight the incredible variety that makes our region a food lover’s paradise.
Winning a BRAVO is a transformative experience for a small business. It’s not just about the trophy; it’s about the validation of years of hard work. For the teams behind the scenes, it’s a moment of immense pride. The Flour Pot Bakery, winners of the Best Brews & Bakes award in 2025, expressed this perfectly: “We’re absolutely thrilled… this recognition means so much to our hardworking team. A huge thank you to our incredible customers – your support means everything!”
Why Your Vote Matters
When you sit down to cast your vote, you are helping to shape the “shopping list” of the city for the entire year. The BRAVO Top 20 lists are used by locals and tourists alike to discover where to eat, drink, and shop. Securing a spot in that Top 20 can change the trajectory of a small business, ensuring they stay busy and sustainable throughout the year.
The impact on the staff is equally profound. CrabShack, who achieved a “hat trick” for Best Sussex Restaurant from 2023-25, noted that the win serves as
“added confirmation that our customers still love what we do, and our team continues to serve consistently great food alongside fabulous service.”
This boost in morale is essential for the employees who are the heartbeat of our favorite venues.
Inspiring Innovation and Community Spirit
The BRAVOs encourage businesses to push boundaries and stay unique. Embers, winners of Best Sunday Roast 2025, highlighted how the awards celebrate creativity:
“Winning is a great feeling, the result of a lot of hard work and early starts! I think Embers offers a unique concept… To take this concept and make a roast out of it was a no-brainer!”
Similarly, the awards recognise the growing importance of sustainability and ethical choices. Multi award winner Bonsai Plant Kitchen, the Plant Champions winner in 2025, shared:
“Being recognised… makes us realise our sustainable hospitality choices are valued and appreciated by the guests who choose us and it also rewards all the team who have been part of the change we have made.”
In a city as competitive as ours, even international flavours find their moment in the sun. IL Bistro, crowned for Best International Cuisine, remarked:
“With so many fantastic restaurants and cuisines to choose from in Brighton & Hove, it’s such a privilege and an honour to be announced the winner.”
Get Ready to Make Your Voice Heard!
The countdown to the BRAVO 2026 launch has officially begun, and it’s time to mark your calendars! Voting officially opens on February 10th and will run until March 10th. This critical four-week window is your chance to show the love to the independents that make our community unique. Once the polls close, the anticipation will build toward March 31st, when the winners will be officially announced.
Whether you are out and about enjoying a meal or sat at home reminiscing about your favourite hidden gem, take a moment to vote. Every single vote goes a long way toward securing a future for the independents who make Brighton and Sussex so special.
Who will take the crown in 2026? That is entirely up to our voters. Let’s make this the biggest, most positive BRAVOs yet!
#BRAVO2026 Handy Links
- Register your venue
- The rules
- Get promotional material
- Category descriptions
- Discover your QR Code
- Get in touch with team Restaurants Brighton with any questions
