Sea Lanes – Wood X Coal

Why You’ll like Wood X Coal at Sea Lanes Brighton

Born from seaside pop-ups between two pals, Wood X Coal captures the spirit of Brighton and Hove’s independent food scene — relaxed, creative and a little bit fiery. What started as a passion project has grown into a full-flavour celebration of cooking over wood and flame.

Now in residence at Sea Lanes on Brighton seafront, Wood X Coal bring the sizzle of beachside barbecues to the city, blending smoky, crowd-pleasing flavours with fresh, modern twists.

Sea Lanes is ideally located for visits to Brighton’s iconic seafront, offering a cycle-friendly environment complete with dedicated cycle parking for families. Situated on a revitalised stretch of the beach between the Pier and the Marina, this new destination venue is a place you will undoubtedly want to explore time and time again — whether on foot, on a dog walk, by car, or by cycle.

Wood X Coal – Fiery Roots: Born on the Beach

At its heart lies the central food and drink operation, anchored by Wood X Coal, the dynamic kitchen serving up sensational Mediterranean small plates and smoky BBQ flavours, complemented by the local craft beers of Bison Beer. The standout feature is the outstanding view across Brighton seafront, offering a relaxed coastal experience unlike any other. If you haven’t visited this new part of Brighton yet, you must go.

The Flame-Grilled Concept

The food offering at Sea Lanes Brighton is primarily centred around Wood X Coal, a kitchen dedicated to flame-grilled favourites and smoky BBQ vibes inspired directly by Brighton’s beach culture. Overseen by Head Chef Dan Cotton, formerly of Humble Plates, the menu reflects a commitment to bold, fresh, and seasonally-inspired small plates. The style is heavily focused on the heat of the grill, creating dishes that are simultaneously comforting and vibrant.

Menu Highlights: Fire and Mediterranean Influence

Weekend Brunch at Wood X Coal: Seaside Energy

Wood X Coal serves an indulgent weekend brunch every Friday to Sunday (11 am–3 pm), perfectly complementing the activities at Sea Lanes. The menu features Turkish-inspired dishes like Shakshuka with poached eggs and the comforting vegan Creamy Mushrooms on Toast. Other highlights include Leek & Sweetcorn Hash and Smashed Avocado. The bar, run by Bison Beer, enhances the experience with brunch classics, including the perfect Bloody Mary, Espresso Martini, and Mimosa. It’s the ideal way to fuel up with great food and seaside energy.

Standout Grill Dishes

The focus on the grill yields spectacular results, perfect for a warming meal by the sea. Highlights include the Smokey Beef Short Rib served with creamy Polenta and Salsa Verde, and the succulent Grilled Chicken Breast with Green Tahini Dressing, Whole Grain Salad, and pickles. For a lighter but equally flavourful option, the Roast Cod with Smoked Mussel Sauce and a Potato Croquette is a winner.

Snacks and Vegan Options

The Turkish and Mediterranean inspirations shine through in the snack section. The Shawarma Mushrooms with Hummus and Zatar on sourdough and the vibrant Sweetcorn Chaat with Tamarind Chutney are particularly popular. The menu also features a sensational vegan plate from the grill: the Charred Hispi Cabbage served with Crispy Chilli Oil, Kale, Sesame Seeds, and Tofu Dressing.

Golden Hour & Dinner Delights

Golden Hour & Dinner. When the sun dips, the flavours rise. As evening arrives, Wood X Coal brings the fire with dishes made for sharing – think charred meats, vibrant veg, and smoky sauces that hit all the right notes. Bison Beer keeps the glasses full with cocktails, craft beer, and Brighton’s favourite See Side APA—a huge draw thanks to its local Sussex brewing provenance.

Weekend Sharing Feasts (Saturday & Sunday): Weekends at Sea Lanes are all about Brighton’s best laid-back rhythm. Wood X Coal fires up special weekend feasts—generous, flavour-packed dishes made for sharing with friends:

• Mixed Grill: A feast of Smoked Short Rib, Merguez Sausage, Grilled Chicken, and Pork Belly, served with Toasted Sourdough, Caesar Salad, and Crispy Potatoes (Feeds 2-3 people).

• Veg Mezze: A generous vegetarian spread featuring Mushroom Shawarma, Grilled Hispi, Sweetcorn Chaat, Coal Roasted Beetroot Salad, Smoked Squash, Caesar Salad, and Crispy Potatoes (Feeds 2-3 people).

Exclusive Offers and Atmosphere

The restaurant provides excellent value throughout the week:

RB loves their lunch deal: Served Monday–Thursday, 12 pm–3 pm. You can choose from the Wood X Coal Burger, Shakshuka, or a Chicken/Halloumi Caesar Salad. they also offer a midweek evening deal: Served Monday–Thursday, 5 pm–7 pm. Here you can enjoy any two courses (a Snack or Dessert with a Salad or a Grill dish).

The newly renovated indoor dining space offers relaxed coastal style and shelter from the elements – ideal for evening meals and weekend gatherings. Reserve your spot to guarantee a table with full service from Wood X Coal and Bison Beer.

The Supporting Cast

To complete the full seafront experience, ease into the weekend with a legendary brunch from Wood X Coal or enjoy a perfect start to the day with FIKA, the neighbouring spot known for serving up indulgent plates, great coffee, and seaside energy to start your day right.

The Essentials

• Core Concept & Head Chef

Wood X Coal (WXC), headed by Chef Dan Cotton, delivers intense, smoky Mediterranean and BBQ flavours specialising in dishes like Smokey Beef Short Rib and Charred Hispi Cabbage. 

• Unique Location and Fully Accessible. 

Sea Lanes is Brighton’s unique, must-visit seafront destination, offering unmatched coastal views and a newly renovated, relaxed atmosphere. Sea Lanes have a lift to the first floor terrace for amazing views. 

• Family, Dog and Bike Friendly

Sea Lanes is proud to be a truly family-friendly destination, equipped with high chairs and a welcoming environment, offering options like Vegetable Crudites and Hummus, Chicken Tenders, and Beef or Veggie Burgers for younger diners. For cycling families, the location is ideal, featuring dedicated bicycle stands as it sits right on a popular commuting route, ensuring easy access after a family walk or a swim. Sea Lanes is a dog friendly venue.

• Weekend Speciality and Brunch

Weekends focus on large, communal dining with Wood X Coal’s generous Mixed Grill and Veg Mezze sharing feasts, following brunch from WXC (Wood X Coal) and FIKA.

• Value & Deals

WXC provides excellent weekday value with Lunch Deals and Midweek Evening Deals, ideal for securing high-quality food in this vibrant setting.