Brighton and Hove's

Sustainable Restaurant Guide

Help build a more sustainable community

Bonsai Plant Kitchen is one of Brighton’s most sustainable and celebrated vegan restaurants, known for its eco-conscious ethos and punchy, plant-based flavours with influences from south east Asia. Using sustainable ingredients and zero-waste practices where possible, Bonsai minimises its environmental impact while creating vibrant, flavour-packed dishes. It’s been awarded Brighton’s Best Vegan Restaurant for two consecutive years and consistently ranks in the BRAVO top 20 for best restaurants. National food critic Grace Dent has also praised its unique and satisfying menu, solidifying Bonsai as a must-visit spot for ethical, delicious dining in Brighton. Located on Baker Street near the Brighton Open Market. 

Majahma is a pioneering takeaway service in Brighton that champions sustainability and planet-friendly practices. Their innovative business model specialising in Indian cuisine, features a rotating weekly menu of delicious plant-based and vegetarian meals, all made locally and sustainably. Instead of traditional packaging, Majahma uses reusable tiffin delivery containers, minimising waste and promoting a circular economy. This approach not only reduces single-use plastic but also supports local farmers and producers, making Majahma a conscientious choice for those looking to enjoy tasty meals while being kind to the environment.

Located at Tottington Manor, Terra Restaurant in Sussex is a pioneer of sustainable dining, dedicated to offering fresh, locally sourced produce while minimising its environmental impact.

Committed to sustainability, Terra works closely with local farmers and Sussex suppliers to ensure its menu features seasonal ingredients that are ethically sourced. The restaurant’s commitment extends to reducing food waste, using eco-friendly packaging, and implementing energy-efficient practices in its operations. With a focus on plant-based dishes, Terra not only delights diners with delicious meals but also promotes a healthier planet. This dedication to sustainability makes Terra a standout choice for environmentally-conscious food lovers looking for a Sussex restaurant. 

Nostos Greek Restaurant in Hove champions sustainability through its commitment to eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing. By prioritising local ingredients, Nostos supports regional farmers and reduces carbon footprints associated with food transport.

The Hove  restaurant minimises waste by implementing recycling and composting initiatives, ensuring that every part of the produce is utilised. Nostos also emphasises plant-based dishes, promoting a healthier lifestyle while being kind to the planet. With a focus on sustainability woven into its ethos, Nostos not only delights diners with authentic Greek cuisine but also plays a vital role in protecting the environment for future generations.

Embers restaurant in Brighton prides itself on being a sustainable, eco-conscious dining destination. Specialising in wood-fired cooking, they keep energy use low by using sustainable wood and charcoal.

The restaurant is actively working with Old Tree for food waste disposal, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Space permitting, they recycle cardboard and use sustainable stone plates for 50% of their crockery.

Additionally, Embers has implemented a sophisticated carbon scrubbing system to mitigate the carbon emissions from their wood use, making them a leader in eco-friendly practices while delivering a unique, fire-focused dining experience in the heart of Brighton. Located in Brighton’s Lanes

Cin Cin is an award-winning Italian neighbourhood restaurant on Western Road in Hove, known for its warm hospitality and modern Italian flavours. Dedicated to sustainability, Cin Cin sources organic, local fruit and vegetables, adheres to rigorous environmental standards for its cleaning equipment, and donates unused food where possible. The restaurant also offers vegan options, ensuring everyone can enjoy its fresh, seasonal dishes. Committed to reducing waste, Cin Cin separates recyclable materials and uses eco-friendly practices throughout. It’s a standout choice for sustainable dining with authentic Italian flair.

Eight Bells in Jevington is a charming countryside pub that embraces sustainability in its operations. Nestled in the heart of the South Downs, this traditional Sussex pub minimises its environmental impact by using sink water to flush toilets and collecting rainwater to maintain the garden.

They source ingredients as locally as possible, reducing food miles and their carbon footprint. Most food waste is repurposed in-house, and any excess is occasionally donated. By focusing on local produce and eco-friendly practices, Eight Bells is committed to creating a low-impact, sustainable dining experience in a picturesque rural setting.

Chilli Shaak is leading the way in sustainable dining with its Indian tiffin delivery service in Brighton and Hove. Specialising in heated tiffins and set menu options for home dining, the Indian restaurant prioritises fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create authentic Indian flavours. Each meal is delivered in eco-friendly, reusable stainless steel tiffins, significantly reducing single-use plastic waste. By combining convenience with sustainability, Chilli Shaak not only offers delicious food but also encourages customers to embrace eco-conscious practices. Their commitment to sustainability makes them a standout choice for anyone seeking to enjoy vibrant Indian cuisine while supporting a greener planet.

Ridgeview Wine Estate proudly holds B Corp status, a testament to its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This prestigious certification signifies that Ridgeview meets rigorous standards of environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, employing organic farming methods and promoting biodiversity within its vineyards. Additionally, Ridgeview prioritises energy efficiency and waste reduction in its production processes. By achieving B Corp certification, Ridgeview demonstrates its dedication not only to crafting exceptional English sparkling wines but also to positively impacting the community and the environment, setting a standard for others in the industry to follow. Founder members of Sustainable Wines of Great Britain

Casazul, one of Brighton’s most sustainable restaurants, scores highly across all sustainability metrics. This family-run eatery in Brighton’s Open Market brings authentic Baja-style Mexican cuisine with zero-waste values and locally sourced ingredients. Recognised for fresh, flavour-packed dishes inspired by Baja California, Casazul creates a fusion of local produce and Mexican tradition. Eco-friendly practices, biodegradable packaging, and vibrant decor make it an ideal spot for an affordable, conscious dining experience that embodies the sustainable spirit of the Open Market.

Honey Cake by Mary is a delightful bakery in Brighton, renowned for its exquisite cakes that celebrate local ingredients and traditional recipes. Their commitment to sustainability is evident as they prioritise eco-friendly practices in their baking process. By filling out the sustainability checklist, they thoughtfully consider their environmental impact, sourcing ingredients responsibly and reducing waste. This ensures that every slice not only delights the palate but also supports a healthier planet, making Honey Cake by Mary a sweet choice for eco-conscious dessert lovers.

Bohemia is a vibrant, eco-friendly restaurant and bar located in the heart of Brighton’s bustling Lanes. Known for its unique fusion menu and creative cocktails, Bohemia offers a rooftop terrace, a cocktail lounge, and a cosy dining area. Committed to sustainability, Bohemia sources local, organic ingredients, minimises waste, and uses biodegradable packaging. Their energy-efficient kitchen and eco-friendly cleaning practices contribute to their environmentally conscious operations, making Bohemia a popular destination for sustainable dining in Brighton.

Gung Ho! on Preston Street is a visionary cocktail bar in Brighton, celebrated for its innovative mixology and commitment to sustainability. This pioneering venue prioritises eco-friendly cocktails, using seasonal produce and local foraging to create unique drinks that showcase regional flavours. By emphasising intelligent flavour pairings, Gung Ho! not only delights the palate but also honours the environment. Frequently recognised among the best bars in Brighton and the UK, Gung Ho! sets a high standard for sustainable cocktail culture, consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity and sustainability.

Albourne Estate champions sustainability through comprehensive practices. Their winery and tasting room are powered by 100% green energy, including solar panels that export surplus energy to the grid. They’ve reduced electricity use by 50% since 2015 and minimised new construction, repurposing existing structures. Packaging is eco-friendly, using recycled labels and natural cork. Waste is actively recycled, and water monitored monthly to reduce use. In the vineyard, they preserve soil health, support biodiversity, and limit herbicides, using sheep grazing and organic mulching to enrich the land.

Hotel du Vin in Brighton has implemented several sustainable practices that make it a standout in our Sustainable Restaurant Guide. The boutique hotel aims to reduce energy use and actively trains its staff to minimise food waste. They use a strict inventory management system, separate recyclable materials, and choose ecological cleaning products, all of which contribute to their environmental goals. Sourcing from local Sussex suppliers helps minimise their carbon footprint and supports the local economy. Furthermore, any unused food is donated, ensuring waste is kept to a minimum. With these initiatives, Hotel du Vin demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability.

Malmaison at Brighton Marina has embraced a range of eco-friendly practices, making it a notable addition to our Sustainable Restaurant Guide. The hotel prioritises energy reduction, training its team on strategies to cut food waste effectively. They maintain an organised inventory system, rigorously separate recyclables, and opt for ecological cleaning solutions to support their environmental goals. By partnering with local Sussex suppliers, Malmaison reduces transportation emissions and backs local businesses. Additionally, any surplus food is donated to avoid waste. Through these efforts, Malmaison in Brighton Marina showcases a meaningful commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality.

The Farm Tavern, a quirky neighbourhood pub in Hove serving Eastern European small plates, is a fantastic addition to our Sustainable Restaurants Guide. Their sustainable practices include smart meters to monitor and limit water and energy use, ensuring an eco-friendly operation. The menu is thoughtfully designed to use each ingredient fully, reducing waste while offering quality, organic meat. They’re also diligent about separating recyclable materials, minimising their environmental impact. With these initiatives, The Farm Tavern is setting an example in sustainable dining within the vibrant Hove community.

Oeuf Café is a multi-award-winning Café in Hove, known for its creative and sustainable approach to dining. This vibrant café champions sustainability by sourcing local, seasonal ingredients from suppliers like Chalk Stream Farm, The Flour Pot Bakery, and The Good Egg Fellas. Big on water and energy conservation, Oeuf also prioritises plant-based options, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. With a commitment to delicious, responsibly sourced dishes, Oeuf has become a standout venue for those who appreciate great food and eco-friendly practices. It’s a must-visit venue for conscious food lovers in the city and serves multi-award winning brunches. 

Nanima Asian Kitchen Café is a proud Sustainable Champion, blending authentic Asian cuisine with eco-conscious practices. Their daily-changing menu is freshly prepared, ensuring zero food waste by controlling exactly what is cooked and sold. Nanima prioritises sustainable sourcing, using certified farmed fish and incorporating healthy options in at least half of their dishes. Energy conservation is key, with smart energy meters and light-use monitors helping to reduce consumption. Combining delicious, traditional dishes with a strong commitment to sustainability, Nanima sets an inspiring example for eco-friendly dining.

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Baked in Hove is a standout addition to the Sustainable Restaurant Guide, exemplifying eco-friendly values. As an independent café and restaurant, they prioritise local, sustainable, and ethical practices in every aspect of their business. Using smart energy meters and high-energy-rated equipment, they actively work to reduce energy use. Their menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, supporting local businesses and lowering their carbon footprint. With a zero-to-landfill waste policy and compostable packaging, they minimise environmental impact while striving to reduce waste across all operations. Baked in Hove embodies sustainability while delivering fresh, delicious dishes.

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Look out for the Sustainable Restaurant Badges

sustainable suppliers, case studies and interviews

Explore our list of wonderful local suppliers.

Project supporters

The Sustainability Toolkit project is a collaboration between the University of Brighton and Restaurants Brighton and is supported by Recorra.