Still Fresh After 15 Years
Can you believe that it has been 15 years since Plateau in Brighton first opened? This now-iconic natural wine bar and restaurant was once a new-fangled concept that would broaden the minds of Brightonian wine enthusiasts in ways we couldn’t imagine. Unlike traditional wine bars, Plateau encouraged us to embrace the ‘funk’ and ‘natural complexity’ of unadulterated wines – and we’ve never looked back.
Since it opened, the expert team at Plateau have been pouring their hearts and souls into every glass and dish. The results have stood the test of time – a true testament to their passion and expertise.
What You’ll Love:
- Modern roast, done right – Poulet Rôti with all the trimmings.
- Natural wines you’ll actually love – expertly matched to your meal.
- Cocktails with a twist – Paloma, martini, and more.
- Sexy bread + sharers – cod’s roe, zhoug, pickles.
- Cosy, buzzy Brighton setting – perfect for a long Sunday lunch.
An Iconic Facade
Plateau’s stained glass front is now a part of Brighton’s historic twisting streets, while their passion for natural wines, exquisite cocktails, and exceptional food remains unwavering. Along with my cousin Jessica and friend Alanna, I was lucky enough to be welcomed in to experience their fresh take on the traditional Sunday roast – and I cannot wait to tell you all about it.
But first, let’s set the scene!
Plateau is part modern French bistro, part New York wine bar. Exposed brick, wood floors, and low lighting set the scene for close conversations and catching up. The bar is the ideal spot on a buzzing Saturday night for a killer pre-gig cocktail, but this Sunday the vibe was chilled and casual.
Cocktail? Don’t mind if I do.
Plateau may be known for their extensive wine list, but they know a thing or two about making well-balanced cocktails with a twist. I opted for the long and tall Sipello Paloma – refreshing grapefruit soda, Sipello, mezcal, and a dusting of Tajín. A taste of California (and Sussex) in a glass.
My sweet cousin Jessica had the herbaceous and zippy hibiscus margarita, served in a stunning glass with dried flowers and a zing of salt and sugar. More-ish, to say the least. Alanna, a newfound lover of a dry gin martini, has been sampling them all over town with gusto and had this to say: ‘I have been looking for this exact flavour for a month. This is exactly what I have been wanting – finally, a perfect martini!’ What more can you say? 11/10 out of the gate.
Sexy bread is a thing. Period.
For anyone out there questioning the sexiness of bread, I dare you – nay I challenge you – to try the vixen-level bread at Plateau. (She needs an ‘only-pains’ – true story.) Dipped in high-quality oil, smothered in butter, or scooped with Plateau’s whipped cod’s roe and zhoug, then topped with pops of pickled radish, she serves sexy deliciousness all day long.
As we visited on Burns Night, and we had an American with us, we absolutely had to try the haggis croquettes with aioli. Perfectly golden little parcels of joy – crisp as you like on the outside and smooth and creamy within – haggis never had it so good!
Poulet Rôti, s’il vous plaît
Poulet Rôti is the French version of our traditional roast chicken, and Plateau did it beautifully. Juicy and succulent roasted chicken with crispy skin, served with roasted new potatoes, garlicky aioli, and healthy piles of winter greens. There is a moment in the Disney film Ratatouille where the critic gets swept back to childhood on his first bite. This roast was exactly that.
Authentic, honest flavours; ingredients treated with the utmost respect; every single element thoughtful and served with love. I can describe it in one word… faultless. Paired with a natural Sinse 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, it’s très magnifique!
Dessert? We couldn’t possibly…
Well, if you insist! As if we would ever say no!
Winter berries pavlova – light and chewy, with passionfruit curd, fresh whipped cream, and just sweet enough. The perfect finish to a sensational Sunday afternoon.
Fifteen years of excellence at Plateau, and there is no sign of slowing down. Consistently exceptional and inviting – proof of their vision and their brilliant team. If you are looking for something warm and welcoming to elevate your Sunday, book your table at Plateau and enjoy.
Au revoir, mon amour.
