We meet Ivana Roy, co-owner of Petit Pois in Brighton’s Lanes, alongside her husband and head chef, David. Petit Pois is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the city. In this interview, Ivana shares insights into what makes the restaurant so special and offers her perspective on the key ingredients for a successful business.
What was your original vision for Petit Pois, and do you feel it has been brought to life?
At Petit Pois, my vision has always been to create a cosy, vibrant space where happy faces light up the room, and each guest truly enjoys every bite. I wanted a place where guests are greeted by the delicious aromas from the kitchen and feel immediately at ease, knowing they’ll be looked after from the moment they arrive.
I take great pride in our high standards for food, wine, and service.
Our approach to service is casual yet attentive—always friendly, proactive, caring, and genuine. I’m dedicated to finding not only the right skills but also the right personalities for our team. Every person here is an incredible individual, bringing intelligence, heart, and authenticity to the experience we create. It’s humbling to work alongside such talented and kind people, each contributing to the warm, welcoming atmosphere we offer at Petit Pois.
Who has inspired you along the way?
Inspiration can come unexpectedly, often in the smallest, most meaningful moments. I deeply believe in the kindness and goodness of people, and in our busy lives, witnessing or experiencing an act of kindness brings such genuine joy.
My greatest, most enduring inspiration is my husband, David. He is talented and creative, yet remains humble and incredibly kind.
His quiet strength and warmth are qualities I admire every day, and they inspire me to bring the same spirit of kindness and creativity into everything I do.
Name your top 2 favourite places for eating out in Brighton and why?
My favourite place to eat is Bincho Yakatori – every visit feels like a mini escape to Japan with delicious, fresh, and authentic food. I forget I’m even in Brighton!
For cocktails, it has to be Golden Pineapple on Ship Street. Not only is it super close to work, but the cocktails are out of this world, and the atmosphere is always spot on.
How important is the team at Petit Pois to its continuing success?
A strong team is the heartbeat of any successful business.
Regardless of the creativity of the owner or the brilliance of the recipes, it’s the talented, resilient, and charismatic people who truly make it thrive. In hospitality, we often say we’re a “dying breed”—this industry draws a unique blend of artistry and just a hint of madness.
It’s demanding work, but when done right, the rewards are immediate.
Building a great team is like cooking a masterpiece: you need high-quality ingredients, a balance of flavours, and a touch of heat to bring it all together.
What needs to change to help restaurants thrive?
I believe it’s time to rethink the way we approach food. In our busy lives, we often gravitate toward quick, convenient options, which are often the worst for us nutritionally. This habit turns mealtime into a mere routine to curb hunger, missing the essence of what it should be.
Meals should be prepared thoughtfully, ideally as a shared family experience, and enjoyed together around the table.
Preparing and eating with care not only provides nourishment but creates valuable time to connect, slow down, and savour both the food and the company of loved ones.
What is the one most important piece of advice you would give to an aspiring restaurateur?
Believe in yourself and your ideas, and trust your instincts. When you give something your all, you’ll find your path and true happiness. Stay committed, keep pushing forward, and know that your efforts will lead you to where you’re meant to be.
Confidence in yourself is the first step towards success.
