Pompoko Brighton

Pompoko is a much loved fixture of Brighton’s Japanese food scene, tucked into Church Street opposite the Corn Exchange and the Dome. Since opening its doors, this small independent restaurant, cafe and takeaway has built a devoted following for its no frills approach to Japanese cooking, offering hearty, flavourful dishes at prices that keep people coming back again and again.

Why you will like Pompoko

Pompoko has a character all of its own. There is no table service here, guests simply order at the counter downstairs before finding a seat, and the atmosphere is busy, informal and full of energy. Regulars appreciate the bring your own policy, which makes it easy to pair a bottle of wine or a few beers with dinner for a modest corkage fee. Dishes arrive quickly, portions are generous, and the whole experience feels wonderfully unpretentious. It is little wonder that Pompoko has repeatedly done well in the Best Value category at the BRAVO awards, with the Brighton public consistently voting it one of the most affordable places to eat in the city.

What to order at Pompoko

The Tori Chilli Don is something of a signature dish, tender chicken served in a tangy, spiced sauce over rice. The Sesame Tofu Don is another favourite among regulars, offering a satisfying vegetarian option packed with flavour, while the Yubamaki, deep fried tofu wrapped delicately in tofu skin, is well worth trying for something a little different. Those after something lighter often turn to the Teriyaki Chicken Don, or the vegetable Yakisoba, a simple but comforting noodle dish that showcases Pompoko’s straightforward approach to Japanese cooking.

Location and other Japanese favourites nearby

Pompoko sits right in the heart of the Lanes, close to some of the city’s other standout Japanese restaurants. Lima Nikkei is worth exploring for its Peruvian Japanese fusion menu, while Bonsai brings its own take on contemporary Japanese small plates.

Fumi and Moshimo also remain firm favourites among locals looking for sushi and other Japanese classics, meaning this pocket of the city is something of a destination for anyone keen to sample the full breadth of Brighton’s Japanese dining scene.

A dependable choice for great value dining

Few restaurants in Brighton offer the same combination of flavour, speed and value as Pompoko. Whether it is a quick bite before a night out or a relaxed dinner with friends, this remains one of the city’s most reliably satisfying and affordable places to eat.