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Lewes Restaurants Guide
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Lewes Restaurants, Pubs and Cafès
The Lewes Restaurants Guide by Restaurants Brighton.
Lewes is Brighton’s historic cousin to the north. While it may not have the same hip and happening vibe as the seaside city, it is steeped in history and one of the prettiest places to visit in the local area. Just a short journey from Brighton, a trip to Lewes is a must for any local or visitor to the city. Here you can explore iconic landmarks such as Lewes Castle, The Anne of Cleves House, and the famous Harvey’s Brewery. With plenty of fantastic shops, antique dealers, and art galleries, there’s lots to keep you occupied. All that sightseeing is hungry work, and Lewes has its fair share of Sussex restaurants and incredible pubs. To help you navigate the town, here are our picks of Lewes restaurants, cafes, Sussex pubs, and bars.
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No.34 is a warm, open and inviting restaurant in the heart of Lewes. Housed in the W.E Baxter’s old printing firm on the High Street, No.34 is a low-intervention wine bar with excellent food. Steaks on a Thursday, whole fish on a Friday and a whole free range chicken on Sundays are amongst other sensational seasonal plates. Their wines are a carefully selected range of quality, low intervention, organic and biodynamic from small artisanal producers. Designed with love and oozing with style and comfort the team at No 34 will offer a very warm welcome to all that walk through their door.
First up in our Lewes restaurants guide. As second-generation Italian coffee roasters, Trading Post is a natural place to begin a day in Lewes; In addition to masterfully roasted coffee, Trading Post serves a fine selection of breakfast from the Full English to lighter bites such as yoghurt pots and compote topped porridge bowls. Brunch and lunch are equally creative and focus on using whole foods for flavour, colour and natural taste, all using local ingredients where possible. There are ample vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options across all menus.
Depot
Depot is a cultural and community hub with multi cinema screens, live music, drinking, dining, art exhibitions and creative courses and workshops. This is a destination suited to whole families for a cultural day out or if you’re looking to impress on a romantic date night.The Depot Kitchen is open for breakfast right through to evening meals and is well thought out and reasonably priced. The bar offers drinks from many quality local producers including Ridgeview and Bolney Estate and Harvey’s, whose brewery is just next door. Why not combine your visit with one of these Sussex walks too.
Flint Owl Bakery
Flint Owl Bakery is dedicated to creating the best bread and pastries using only the finest ingredients. They take their craft seriously, creating products where no corner has been cut. At their café in Lewes, you can pick up some of their superb artisan bread and freshly baked pastries. Alternatively, take the weight off your feet and enjoy a drink and bite to eat in their charming bakery. With a fabulous walled garden and cakes to die for, the smell alone is worth the trip. This venue had to be included in our Lewes restaurants page, as where else would you go in Lewes for fabulous baked goods?
The Pelham Arms, Lewes Pub
The Pelham Arms
The Pelham Arms is a charming traditional Sussex pub set in Lewes town centre. It offers guests popular gastropub classics made from locally sourced suppliers and ranges from burgers to plant-based dishes. Everything is created in house, they have a smokehouse in their Lewes pub where meats and fish are cured. Keep an eye out for beers from their own micro-brewery situated in the cellar. Landlord Andrew spends much of his free time creating beers under the name Abyss brewing that are showcased in the pub.
Squisito, Lewes Restaurants
Squisito Restaurant in Lewes is an elegant Italian eatery that brings authentic flavours and a warm ambiance to the heart of the town. Known for its traditional Italian cuisine, Squisito offers delectable dishes such as creamy truffle risotto, fresh seafood linguine, and classic tiramisu. The restaurant’s cosy yet sophisticated setting makes it perfect for both intimate dinners and family gatherings. With a commitment to high-quality ingredients and exceptional service, Squisito promises an unforgettable dining experience.
The Snowdrop Inn, Lewes Pub
For a night of live music and a traditional free house atmosphere, The Snowdrop Inn is the place to go. The Snowdrop Inn have worked hard to transform their Lewes pub into a resounding local favourite, hosting a beer festival, sports day and fun dog show every year (but not all at the same time). Their selection of beer and wine is strong and supports local and small producers. Food at this Sussex pub is seasonal, freshly cooked with a strong ethical and sustainable policy as well as options for all diet types. The Snowdrop is a super option for a Sussex Sunday roast.
Côte Brasserie in Lewes, located on the High Street, offers classic French cuisine in a cosy yet elegant setting. With warm décor and a relaxed ambiance, it’s ideal for casual lunches or romantic dinners. The menu is reasonably priced, with starters like French Onion Soup and mains such as the Poulet Breton—a creamy chicken dish with bacon and mushrooms.
Perfect for locals or visitors exploring nearby attractions like Lewes Castle, Côte Brasserie provides a welcoming taste of Parisian dining in the heart of East Sussex.
Fork, Lewes Restaurants
Fork Restaurant in Lewes is a contemporary British dining establishment known for its elegant ambiance and innovative menu. The restaurant showcases seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in dishes such as roasted duck breast with spiced plum sauce, wild mushroom and truffle gnocchi, and a delightful elderflower panna cotta. Fork’s chic interior and attentive service make it an ideal spot for special occasions or a refined night out. The restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence ensures a memorable dining experience for all guests.
Bill's, Lewes Restaurants Guide
It may now be a massive national chain, but this is where it all began. The Lewes restaurant is the original, and so, therefore, the best. What started as a small fruit and veg shop has grown into one of the most trusted eateries in the UK. Their approach of creating homely dishes utilising the best meat, fish and vegetables available is why people love them. It is this ethos that this first café was born. The Lewes restaurant is the stone from which all other Bill’s was carved.Situated on the main high street it has a prime position. Pop in for a coffee and a slice of cake or a full evening meal. Either way, you are guaranteed a delicious meal and fantastic service. It is likely you might leave with some goodies for home as well.
Dill restaurant in lewes
Dill Restaurant in Lewes is a charming eatery known for its modern British cuisine with a creative twist. The Lewes restaurant boasts a cosy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. With a focus on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, Dill offers a delightful dining experience that celebrates the best of contemporary British cooking.
Caccia & Tales, Lewes Cafe
Caccia & Tails, located in Lewes, East Sussex, is a modern, casual dining café inspired by Italian and New York heritage. Drawing on family traditions, it brings Focaccia Genovese, a regional speciality from Genova, to Lewes—served upside down to let the salt hit your tongue perfectly. Alongside this unique focaccia, the menu features fresh pasta, reflecting the business’s roots in Spaghetti Junction, launched in 1981 by Danielle Furci. With an inviting, laid-back atmosphere, Caccia & Tails celebrates bold, authentic flavours, offering dishes that merge Italian culinary traditions with a contemporary twist.
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Lewes, a historic town in East Sussex, UK, is home to a variety of pubs, restaurants, and cafes that reflect its vibrant food and drink scene. As of recent data, Lewes has approximately 20-30 pubs and 40-50 restaurants and cafes, ranging from traditional English pubs and fine dining establishments to casual eateries and independent cafes. Many of these venues highlight local produce, craft beers, and seasonal menus, contributing to Lewes’s reputation as a destination for food and drink enthusiasts. The town’s compact size and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to explore its culinary offerings, often set against its charming historical backdrop..
Lewes, a historic town in East Sussex, offers a wealth of attractions beyond its restaurants and pubs. Lewes Castle, a Norman fortress with stunning panoramic views, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Nearby, the Anne of Cleves House provides insight into Tudor life. The Lewes Priory ruins offer a peaceful glimpse into medieval monastic history. Art lovers can explore the Depot Cinema, a contemporary venue for film and events, or visit local galleries. For nature enthusiasts, the South Downs National Park surrounds Lewes, offering scenic walks and outdoor activities. The town’s charming streets, independent shops, and antiques markets add to its unique appeal.
Lewes, a historic town in East Sussex, is most famous for its Bonfire Night celebrations, the largest and most elaborate in the UK. Held annually on 5th November, the event commemorates the Gunpowder Plot and local Protestant martyrs, featuring processions, costumes, and fireworks. The town is also known for its rich history, including Lewes Castle, a Norman fortress, and the Anne of Cleves House, linked to Henry VIII’s fourth wife. Lewes is celebrated for its independent spirit, with local breweries like Harvey’s Brewery, producing traditional ales. Additionally, its location within the South Downs National Park makes it a hub for nature and heritage enthusiasts.
Yes, Lewes is well known for its pubs and breweries, making it a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. The town is home to Harvey’s Brewery, one of the oldest independent breweries in the UK, established in 1790. Harvey’s produces award-winning traditional ales, and their brewery tours are a highlight for visitors. Lewes boasts a variety of historic and characterful pubs, many of which serve Harvey’s beers alongside other local brews. From cosy, centuries-old inns like the Lewes Arms to lively gastropubs, the town’s pub culture reflects its heritage and community spirit, drawing locals and visitors alike for a pint and good conversation.
