Restaurant Brighton's
Sussex Restaurant Guide
Our top picks
The Sussex Restaurant Guide
Looking for a Sussex restaurant, perhaps a new place you haven’t visited before?
This is our guide to the best Sussex restaurants across east and west. In addition to this you may also like to see our restaurant round ups for Lewes, Eastbourne and Worthing. A list of magnificent restaurants from stunning fine dining settings to Michelin starred. These are our chosen favourite Sussex restaurants. You may also like our Sussex pub guide and our round up of our favourite Sussex walks.
RECOMMENDED:
Restaurants in Worthing
Restaurants in Shoreham By Sea
Restaurants in Lewes
Eastbourne restaurants
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Welcome to Deco at Saltdean Lido, a newly refurbished Art Deco landmark set back from the seafront in the tranquil coastal village of Saltdean. This lido, restaurant and event space offers a stunning dining destination with a stylish, contemporary ambiance. Deco Café and Restaurant serves a diverse menu perfect for brunch and dinner, featuring mouth-watering dishes like avocado toast, eggs benedict, gourmet burgers, and fresh seafood. Located along the coast from Brighton Marina, Deco is a welcoming spot for everyone, ideal for casual meals and special gatherings. The versatile event space makes it perfect for various occasions. Open daily from 9am too, so perfect for a day trip.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The restaurant at White Horses in Rottingdean offers a delightful dining experience with stunning uninterrupted sea views. Located just a short drive from Brighton, this newly renovated venue boasts a menu that combines classic British dishes with a modern flair. Fresh, locally sourced Sussex ingredients feature prominently, with seafood being a highlight. The relaxed, coastal atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual meals, special occasions and of course overnight stays. Enjoy the serene beachside setting while indulging in expertly prepared dishes that showcase the best of the region’s culinary offerings.
Kitti’s Saltdean is a stunning seaside destination for relaxed coastal all day dining. With views over the English Channel, it offers seasonal, thoughtful dishes in a calm setting. Tuck into fresh and well cooked classics like Fish & Chips, Buttermilk Chicken Burger or Scorched Shellfish Macaroni Cheese, plus daily catch specials like Grilled Tiger Prawns or Crab. For some alfresco vibes enjoy snacks, coffees, soft serve and more from The Kiosk on the terrace. Kitti’s is perfect for seaside strolls and laid-back dining. Dog Friendly, accessible and brilliant for the family.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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In 2023 Crabshack was voted best restaurant in Sussex at the BRAVO Awards. The BRAVO awards are a public vote where almost 60,000 votes were cast by the Brighton and Sussex public. Runners up in this category for best Sussex restaurant were Pitch in Worthing and Morleys in Hurstepierpoint. Rathfinny Tasting Room, Albourne Estate and Restaurant Interlude were among the top 20 Sussex restaurants. Here are the current best restaurants in Brighton in 2023.
The Michelin Guide is the gold standard in the hospitality industry, the allocation of one to three Stars represents the height of achievement for a given restaurant. Restaurant Interlude is a Sussex restaurant which has retained a Michelin star for 2023. You may also like to see our BRAVO guide to the best restaurants in Brighton in 2023.
- The New Inn, Hurstepierpoint
- The Sportsman, Goddards Green
- The Plough, Rottingdean
The Cider Tap also offers a different experience as a Cidery in the Sussex countryside. The venue serves delicious cider and outstanding food from The Syndicate Kitchen.
Excellent restaurants at Sussex vineyards include:
