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Sussex Restaurants: A Local's Guide to East and West Sussex
Our top picks
Sussex Restaurants, Chosen by Local Experts
Sussex offers a food scene as diverse as its landscapes, from the rolling hills of the South Downs to charming coastal towns. As Brighton’s own team of local food and drink experts, this guide is updated regularly by our local experts, helping you find the best places to eat and drink across East Sussex and West Sussex. Whether you are after award-winning fine dining, a relaxed pub lunch, a stylish wine bar or an independent café, Sussex has it all, and this guide brings together the county’s strongest restaurants in one place.
For more of the county town by town, our guides to Worthing restaurants, Shoreham restaurants and Lewes restaurants cover the coast, while Eastbourne restaurants rounds out the seafront to the east.
Cuisine: Italian restaurant and wine bar
Poco in Alfriston is a charming Italian restaurant and wine bar, where authentic Italian flavours meet the best of Sussex produce. This inviting spot embodies osteria charm, offering fresh handmade pasta crafted from recipes passed down through generations, along with other signature Italian dishes. Poco’s menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients from within 18 miles, with delicious pasta dishes and cheese boards perfect for a shared dining experience. Their Sunday roasts, served seasonally, feature choices like Salt Marsh lamb and home-rolled porchetta, are served in a generous family-style. Poco also hosts pasta-making events, some with with bottomless prosecco, bringing Italian heritage to life in East Sussex.
Cuisine: Vineyard dining, modern British and European
Artelium Wine Estate is a standout Sussex dining destination set among rolling Sussex vineyard views. Open Friday and Saturday for leisurely lunches and refined evening dinners, and every Sunday for a comforting Sunday roast, the restaurant champions seasonal Sussex produce — much of it grown on site. Expect elegant, ingredient-led dishes, hand-rolled pasta, vibrant garden vegetables and thoughtfully paired estate wines. Whether you choose a sunny terrace lunch or a cosy candlelit weekend dinner, Artelium offers relaxed, modern countryside dining at its best.
Cuisine: British, seafront dining
The restaurant at The White Horses in Rottingdean offers a delightful dining experience with stunning uninterrupted sea views. Located just a short drive from Brighton, this beautifully renovated venue boasts a menu that combines classic British dishes with a modern flair. The relaxed, coastal atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual meals, special occasions and of course overnight stays. Enjoy the pretty beachside setting while indulging in expertly prepared dishes that showcase the best of the seasons culinary offerings.
Cuisine: Modern European small plates with French flair
Le Flamant is a stylish restaurant and wine bar on Lindfield’s charming high street serving modern European small plates with real French flair. With a seriously talented chef behind the scenes, expect a fortnightly changing menu showcasing bold, seasonal flavours. With a buzzy yet intimate atmosphere, it’s ideal for leisurely lunches, date nights, or evenings filled with great food and great friends. Wines from Butler’s Wine Cellar complete this standout Sussex dining spot.
Cuisine: Italian, pizza and pasta
Village Pizza Kitchen, an award-winning Sussex restaurant, has brought its renowned dining experience to a brand-new location in Hurstpierpoint, just 15 minutes from Brighton. Opened in 2025, this vibrant eatery is perfect for all dietary requirements, offering gluten-free and vegetarian options alongside their signature pizza and pasta dishes. Highlights include The Margherita, Aubergine Parmigiana, and creamy Carbonara Pasta. Whether you’re dining in or taking away, Village Pizza Kitchen delivers exceptional flavours and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
Cuisine: Award winning, Modern British, countryside dining
TERRA Restaurant is nestled at the foot of the beautiful South Downs, where sheep leisurely roam nearby fields. “Terra,” meaning earth or land, reflects their food philosophy, championing Sussex’s local produce. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, Head Chef Chris Hilton curates a menu featuring delights like the Twice Baked Soufflé (highly recommended), South Downs Lamb, fresh fish and seafood from Newhaven, and tantalising desserts. Enjoy their pergola and alfresco seating, complete with fire pits, as the sun sets.
Cuisine: Multi-award winning seafood restaurant
CrabShack, a nationally acclaimed and BRAVO Award-winning seafood restaurant, resides in a sheltered yet sunny spot on Worthing’s glorious seafront. This beachfront gem serves up the freshest local fish and seafood, complemented by a delightful selection of drinks and delectable desserts. Despite its laid-back and unpretentious vibe, CrabShack boasts a rustic interior that welcomes all with open arms. While its appearance may seem no-frills to some, rest assured that it delivers plenty of thrills with its consistently fantastic service and mouthwatering dishes.
Cuisine: Award winning British countryside pub
The Eight Bells Jevington, an award-winning Sussex pub, offers top-quality food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located in picturesque South Downs near Eastbourne, this charming and historic pub has been a village cornerstone for centuries. Known for its warm hospitality, it’s a beloved destination for locals and visitors. Independently owned, it radiates the cosy charm of a traditional English pub, perfect for walkers, cyclists, or anyone passing by.
Cuisine: Live fire cooking, campsite dining
Some of you might argue that Woodfire Camping isn’t really a restaurant but we think the quality of the food and the unique dining experience more than justify its inclusion. Guests at the campsite can enjoy local produce transformed into delicious meals, cooked camp-style over fire and served under the stunning Sussex sky. The Woodfire team offers casual, friendly hospitality at its best. Over the summer months, you can book Woodfire Feasts, where innovative guest chefs produce live fire fine dining menus with camping included in the price.
Cuisine: Modern British
Wingrove House is a premier destination venue in the picturesque village of Alfriston, ideal for Sussex walkers, cyclists, and food lovers. Overlooking the village green and the River Cuckmere, it offers a relaxed setting where everyone is welcome. Guided by Head Chef Jacob Fenner, the restaurant serves modern British cuisine using seasonal Sussex produce. Highlights include popular Sussex afternoon teas on the terrace, traditional Sunday roasts, and elegant private dining for birthdays. The estate also features a private self-catering cottage.
Cuisine: British bistro
Morleys Bistro is a comfortable, relaxed and inclusive restaurant that is nestled in the heart of the historic village of Hurstpierpoint. This Sussex restaurant dedicated to providing their customers with the best in local and sustainably sourced ingredients. Their menu is sophisticated and offers a diverse array of dishes, from lavish brunches to sumptuous seafood platters. They even boast a spacious sun-trap of a garden where you can sip on cocktails into the night.
Cuisine: Fine dining, tasting menus
The Fig Tree in Hurstpierpoint is a Sussex restaurant, located just 15 minutes away from Brighton. Situated in the charming village, this family run restaurant provides a memorable and elegant dining experience. From its warm and inviting ambiance to its thoughtfully crafted selection of menus (including a six course tasting menu). With a focus on seasonal and local produce, their dishes showcase culinary creativity and expertise. Immerse yourself in a delightful culinary journey and discover the charm of The Fig Tree in Hurstpierpoint. Open at lunchtimes (Thursday to Saturday) with two and three course menu options. Seating for up to 38 guests. Ideal for private celebrations and parties. Vegetarian tasting menus available.
Cuisine: British grill, steaks
This Sussex restaurant and boutique hotel, located at the Malmaison hotel in Brighton’s Marina, offers a delightful dining experience. Malmaison Bar & Grill serves classic dishes with flair and skill in a comfortable modern surrounding. Enjoy New York Strip Steaks with their homemade steak sauce or a variety of delicious dishes, including breakfast, lunch, and Brighton afternoon teas, in the chic interiors or on the stunning balcony. Whether you’re there for the food, drink, or an overnight stay, you can enjoy the stunning views and sea breeze. Drink or dine alfresco on the ship-shaped terrace or relax in the conservatory with floor-to-ceiling glass windows while sipping on a delicious Brighton cocktail. With free parking and just 5 minutes from Brighton city centre on the way to Rottingdean, it’s a perfect spot for any occasion.
Cuisine: Wine bar, seasonal small and large plates
No 34 in Lewes is a true Sussex gem, nestled halfway up the High Street in a historic building that reflects the charm of its surroundings. This elegant wine bar celebrates the region with a menu designed for those who love quality, ingredient-led food. From seasonal small plates to indulgent Sunday roasts, No. 34 focuses on flavour and sharing. Their carefully curated low-intervention wine list complements every dish, creating a unique dining experience. Surrounded by boutiques and antiques, it’s a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sussex and what Sussex restaurants are all about.
Cuisine: Gastropub
A gem in the Sussex countryside and a prize venue in Hurstpierpoint. The New Inn is as charming as its quintessentially British setting, offers awarding-winning cuisine, including lunches, dinners and Sunday roasts, that are underpinned by three values; quality, locality and sustainability, while still providing outstanding value for anyone who dines there. The restaurant’s elevated offering is remarkable, and with its seasonal food menu and regularly updated list of local beers and wines, there is always something new to explore. This venue is a cross between a Sussex restaurant and a Sussex pub.
Cuisine: Cafe, breakfast and brunch
River Cafe & Bistro is a bright, contemporary Sussex cafe and restaurant located in Shoreham-by-Sea. Selling fresh breakfast, brunch, and lunch all week round, the venue offers open, light, and comfortable interiors with riviera vibes. Enjoy the picturesque view of the River Adur while savouring homemade and locally sourced dishes. With ethical values and a commitment to local suppliers like Horsham Coffee and Bird & Blend tea, River Cafe & Bistro reflects the heart of the Shoreham community, making it a warmly welcomed addition to the area.
Cuisine: Cafe-bar, seafood and burgers
Beach House in Worthing is a beloved local cafe-bar, cherished for its seaside charm and inviting ambiance. Perched overlooking Worthing Pier, it boasts stunning sea views that perfectly complement its mouth-watering menu. Renowned for their signature burgers crafted from top-notch ingredients and a selection of local ales, Beach House also offers delightful seafood dishes and hearty salads. Family and dog-friendly, it caters to all, with a suntrap terrace ideal for sunny days. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed dining experience or simply soaking in the coastal scenery, Beach House promises an unforgettable visit in Worthing.
Cuisine: Modern European, casual dining
The Glass House Restaurant is located within the beautiful Wickwoods Country Club, Hotel and Spa. The first class experience begins as you walk through the door the with stunning interiors of the modern orangery filled with natural light. Open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner there is something for everyone. The restaurant currently holds an AA Rosette. Sunday Lunch served 12-6pm, makes for a stylish out of town take on the classic family get together.
Telephone: 01273 857567
- Wickwoods Country Club, Shaves Wood Lane, Albourne, Hassocks, BN6 9DY
Cuisine: Modern British, Michelin starred fine dining
Another one of sussex’s Michelin star venues is Gravetye Manor, a beautiful country hotel set in 35 acres of stunning gardens. It is these gardens that influence the cookery on offer, with head chef George Blogg taking full advantage of the kitchen garden and produce from the estate. There are many dining options from the full seven-course tasting menu through to relaxed garden dining and superb afternoon tea. There is always a sense of occasion when dining at Gravetye Manor, so be prepared for something exceptional.
Telephone: 01342 810567
- Vowels Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 4LJ
Cuisine: Modern British and European fine dining
This fine Elizabethan manor house has been transformed into a luxury hotel and spa with a fabulous fine dining restaurant. The beautiful dining room is awash with the style and elegance that you would expect from this historic building, and offers a unique setting for diners. Offering a full service from breakfast through to evening meals this is a restaurant for all occasions. The evening menu offers diners a taste of the best Sussex has to offer with a la carte and tasting menu options. Ockenden Manor is a destination venue that you can spend a whole day, and night enjoying.
Telephone: 01444 416111
- Ockenden Lane, Cuckfield, RH17 5LD
Cuisine: British gastropub
The Duck Inn Rottingdean is a charming 19th-century coaching inn near Brighton, run by friends Tom (front-of-house and wine) and James (head chef, ex-Silo/The Goring). Expect seasonal British dishes, natural wines and a warm, unfussy service in one of the prettiest South Downs villages. Perfect for post-walk pints, Brighton day-trippers, or relaxed evenings – think great food, top drinks and a laid-back vibe. A proper pub with heart, great food and a huge beer garden.
Telephone: 01273 390362
- 89 High St, Rottingdean, Brighton, BN2 7HE
The Fig, Rye
Cuisine: Global small plates, casual dining
Right in the centre of Rye, The Fig is a small, cosy neighbourhood restaurant serving vibrant small plates from around the world, designed for sharing across the table. The kitchen keeps things fresh and unfussy, with plenty of vegan and gluten free choices woven naturally through the menu rather than treated as an afterthought. It works equally well for a relaxed brunch, a quick lunch between exploring Rye’s cobbled streets, or a low lit dinner with cocktails. Bookings are taken for dinner, while brunch and lunch are walk in only, so it is worth timing a visit around the queue.
Telephone: No number available
- 2 High Street, Rye, TN31 7JE
Q
&
A
Here are common questions diners ask about restaurants in Sussex.
The Sussex food scene blends countryside charm with coastal flair. Expect locally sourced seafood from the Sussex coast, farm to fork dining in rural Sussex pubs, and international flavours running from East Sussex to West Sussex.
Many food lovers head to Brighton and Hove, but across the county there are excellent options in Lewes, Worthing, Alfriston, Hurstpierpoint and beyond. This year’s BRAVO Award winners include Squisito in Lewes and Andalucia in Ferring, both worth seeking out if you are exploring further afield, alongside Crabshack in Worthing, which has held its title for three years running thanks to its fresh seafood and relaxed seaside setting.
Yes, East Sussex restaurants range from fine dining to cosy cafes and traditional pubs. You will find everything from Brighton seafront seafood restaurants to countryside Sussex gastropubs, with strong options in Lewes, Rye, Eastbourne and Hastings.
West Sussex restaurants champion local produce, with gastropubs, vineyard dining and coastal eateries. A standout is Terra at Tottington Manor, named Most Sustainable Restaurant at the BRAVO Awards, Brighton’s popular public voted food and drink awards.
Absolutely. Both East Sussex and West Sussex are known for inclusivity, with creative vegetarian dishes and exciting vegan friendly menus. Cafe Paradiso in Chichester is a dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurant, and several other venues on this list, including The Fig in Rye, offer clearly marked plant based options alongside their regular menu.
There is no shortage of excellent pub lunches in Sussex, whether by the sea in Brighton, a roast in a cosy Hove pub, or a countryside inn with garden views such as The New Inn in Hurstpierpoint or The Eight Bells in Jevington.
Yes, several venues on this list welcome families comfortably. Village Pizza Kitchen and Morleys Bistro in Hurstpierpoint both have relaxed, informal settings well suited to children, while The Fig in Rye and Beach House in Worthing offer easy, casual dining without feeling stuffy.
Sussex has several destination venues well suited to a romantic evening. Wingrove House in Alfriston and Terra at Tottington Manor both pair sweeping countryside views with elegant, seasonal menus, while Gravetye Manor and Ockenden Manor offer the kind of fine dining and grand surroundings that suit a proper celebration. For more ideas closer to Brighton, see our romantic restaurants guide.
Yes, a number of the county’s best restaurants are attached to hotels or offer rooms of their own. Malmaison at Brighton Marina, Ockenden Manor, Gravetye Manor and The White Horses in Rottingdean all combine excellent dining with a place to stay, ideal for turning a meal into a proper weekend away. See our stay and dine guide for more options across the county.
