Restaurant Brighton's guide to

Vegetarian Restaurant Brighton

Our top picks

Vegetarian restaurants in Brighton

Brighton restaurants with strong vegetarian options

Indian tahlis are nothing short of a visual feast. Majahma’s homemade, pure veg thalis are not only visually appealing, they’re also some of the most flavoursome and nourishing eats around. Available on a home delivery basis, the weekly rotating menu is set up to provide you with everything you need for a night off cooking. The meals come in a four-tier tiffin and will easily feed a hungry pair. Each tiffin contains: a curry, dahl, salad or soup, rice and two freshly made chapati. All made to order, with the freshest ingredients. Subscribe to a weekly or fortnightly delivery and you’ll benefit from plastic free takeaways and guaranteed good-food, all you need to do is heat, eat and repeat.

Purezza is the UKs first 100% vegan pizzeria, opening on St James’ Street in Kemptown in 2015. Obviously for something to be vegan it already also is vegetarian, but that may mean it’s cutting out some of the things that you’re not ready to quit, and quite often that’s cheese. Purezza spent years perfecting their secret recipe for vegan mozzarella and it paid off. So give it a try, who knows, pizza could be your gateway to a 100% plant-based diet and not the door barring it. 

Vegetarian cuisine from the local legend Terre à Terre is something that needs to be experienced by all – vegetarian or otherwise as it is one of the best restaurants in Brighton! Making vegetarianism cool in the early 90s, the acclaimed team’s innovation and creativity has won the hearts of many and helped pave the way for Brighton’s huge vegetarian and vegan legacy. You can expect modern masterpieces packed with flavour and popping with vibrancy. Everything here is vegetarian or vegan, that includes the exquisite organic wine list and the strikingly creative Brighton cocktail menu – get stuck in! This is the real deal vegetarian restaurant from Brighton.

Tucked away inside Brighton’s Open Market is one of our favourite vegan spots in the city, Smorl’s Kitchen Brighton. Understated, unpretentious and under the radar (not for long) Smorl’s Kitchen is owned by siblings Christian and Sarah. 100% vegan, the menu at Smorl’s Kitchen is dedicated to all things chickpea. From delicious pitta’s filled with homemade falafel to huge salad bowls filled to the brim with goodness. Why not try their famous warming spicy falafel-based Bolognese, served with oven-roasted Hasselback sweet potatoes? Head to Smorl’s Kitchen for a delicious plant-based menu and a wonderful community feel.

Wabi Sabi in Hove delights vegetarians with its exceptional vegetarian offerings and global flavours. The menu boasts a wide array of vegetarian options, including delectable vegetable sushi rolls, flavourful tofu dishes, and mouth watering vegetable tempura. Each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail, showcasing the diverse flavours and textures of Japanese cuisine. Wabi Sabi’s commitment to vegetarian excellence ensures that vegetarians can savour the culinary delights of Japan in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Food For Friends has been serving vegetarian and vegan food in Brighton since 1981, making it one of the original trail blazers. At Food For Friends wholefood and classic vegetarianism meets modern dining, with stylish and ever evolving dishes. For any restaurant to run for four decades and counting is an achievement – but to do it and stay so cutting edge? Well, we put that down to the health giving benefits of a plant-based diet. 

Wai Kika Moo Kau is a vegetarian and vegan café in Brighton’s bustling Kensington Gardens in the North Laine. This long-time veggie Brighton café still holds true to classic café and vegetarian fare, with simple familiar food – a far cry from the ultra stylised food of Insta worthy #vegan. Open early for classic breakfasts, sandwiches, wraps and lunch, as well as home made veggie and vegan cakes. 

Located on East Street in the Lanes, What the Pitta serves (nearly) guilt-free dona kebabs, gyros, falafels and chick’n wraps. It’s the donnas and gyros that really earn them points, harking back to late nights and messy food. Using their own recipe soy “kebab meat” and freshly made to order flat bread, these kebabs are stuffed full of humus, salad, tzatziki, and chilli sauce. Prepare to give your taste buds a flash back – just without the mystery meat. 

The Prince George is Brighton’s original vegetarian pub, a large, traditional venue in all respects except for the fact you won’t find a pork pie on the menu. The weekday menu is full of hardy takes on classic pub fare, all vegetarian and more than half vegan or as a vegan option. Roasts on a Sunday are well established as one of the cities best, with many locals making it their go-to destination for their ‘Sunday Session’.

At Planet India they know that Indian food has long been a world leader in terms of vegetarian cuisine, so much so that they don’t really consider it as vegetarian food. In India, many dishes do not contain meat and not consuming meat with every meal is normal, and always has been. Planet India is a vegetarian restaurant in that it does not serve any meat dishes, but it is first and foremost a quality Indian restaurant. The menu at Planet India reads like a friendly trip across the Indian sub-continent with a strong Gujarati influence.

Something special

Hove-based restaurant Wild Flor uses the best in local and seasonal ingredients and their unwavering commitment to quality also extends the plant-based offering. Whether you’re booking in for the Sunday Club feast, the daily a la carte or the set menu – you’ll find something vegetarian. The lunch to dinner menu also comes with a selection of snacks, starters, mains and desserts. And with it being open all day on a Saturday means you can go for a long leisurely lunch or early evening dinner with some beautifully paired wine.

Discover vegetarian culinary treats at Brighton Cocktail Company, Seven Dials. You’ll find a delightful selection of locally sourced and seasonal vegetarian dishes that celebrate the flavours of the region. From enticing sharing boards filled with fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to mouthwatering flatbread pizzas and handcrafted cocktails made with independent spirits, every bite and sip will tantalise your taste buds. Embrace the sustainable and inclusive ethos of the venue as you savour the innovative vegetarian offerings that showcase the culinary expertise of Brighton Cocktail Company.

Dilsk is an exceptional fine dining restaurant that boasts a modern British tasting menu with a focus on progressive and sustainable ethics. With meticulous attention to detail and masterful culinary flair, the restaurant offers an exceptional five-course menu at £55 and a full 10-course menu for £95. Dilsk takes pride in using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients with a zero-waste policy in the kitchen. The restaurant also offers a remarkable vegetarian tasting menu that showcases Chef Tom’s innovative skills in bringing out the natural qualities of the produce. To complement the food, Dilsk offers a tantalising cocktail menu and handpicked wine pairing from Sussex, Kent, and other international vineyards. Non-alcoholic options are also available for those who prefer them. 

Fourth and Church is a Hove restaurant which offers a menu of seasonally changing a la carte and set menus. On both menus, you’ll find a good selection of vegetarian dishes. The cooking style at Fourth and Church fuses traditional and modern methods to spotlight the quality and flavour of ingredients. Working closely with Sussex suppliers the yield of plant-led dishes are always a creative joy to behold.

Local chef Phil Bartley and L’Atelier Du Vin’s Steve Pineau have teamed up to create Hove’s stylish grill restaurant, Carne. All of the ingredients are locally sourced and the owners have strong relationships with local suppliers to ensure only the best is used. It’s not all about the food at Carne, if you like your wine then you’ll love the wine list which has been curated by Pineau. The sleek cocktail lounge is the perfect place to start your visit . Whether you’re looking for a catch-up over lunch or romantic evening, you’re sure to be in safe hands during your visit at Carne.

Cin Cin is a Michelin Bib Gourmand listed restaurant and caters to various dietary requirements, offering a vegetarian Chef’s Menu, a vegan menu, and a gluten-free menu. This modern neighbourhood restaurant on Western Road keeps people coming back for more with its pared-back, seasonal menu that changes monthly. It’s not just about the exceptional authentic Italian small plates, pasta, and antipasti; their service is professional yet casual, providing diners with space and offering recommendations or information when needed. The Aubergine parmigiana, green beans, and mixed leaf salad sound absolutely divine!

Located in the famous South Lanes, this French tapas-style formula is something a bit different in a city with lots of dining options. Serving well-known French classics with a modern twist Petit Pois have a whole section on their menu dedicated to vegetarian dishes with a vegan offering. Petit Pois is always happy to cater to any dietary needs, be that swapping any ingredients to suit vegetarian, vegan or allergy requirements. Photographed is the delicious Tarte Fine of tomatoes, courgette, aubergine, roquette & herb oil.

The Fig Tree in Sussex is a strong option for vegetarian diners, offering a dedicated vegetarian menu that showcases local Sussex ingredients and suppliers. Indulge in a delightful vegetarian tasting menu featuring dishes crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients and wine flights to match. Sample dishes may include the roasted heritage beetroot with whipped goat’s cheese, followed by the truffled wild mushroom risotto. The Fig Tree’s commitment to vegetarian cuisine ensures a memorable dining experience for plant-based food lovers.

Master Chef winner, Steven Edwards’ first restaurant, Etch is a fine dining tasting experience and one of the best in Brighton. Two seasonal menus run alongside each other, one of which is entirely vegetarian. Steven’s cooking technique is unique, each dish has only two main ingredients and no spice is added, relying on kitchen alchemy to turn humble plants into edible gold. 

Lavash on Brighton’s busy North Street is located perfectly centrally for when you are visiting the city. It serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine that’s freshly prepared using quality ingredients. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, including halloumi wraps, excellent falafel and a spicy bulgar kofta. As well as wraps there are bowls and platters, which make for great sharing options. Lavash is open daily from 11am to 11pm with a lovely second floor restaurant that’s something of a hidden gem and oasis in the city centre.

The Brighton Metropole Bar is a fantastic option for vegetarian diners, offering a range of vegetarian-friendly choices. Their menu features 3 to 4 dishes that can also be made vegan-friendly upon request, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. Vegetarian and vegan-friendly afternoon tea is also available (24 hours notice required), providing delightful options for those with dietary preferences. 

Cyan Brighton is the new cool kid on the block, housed inside the iconic Grand Hotel. Head chef Kirk Johnson describes his all day dining menu as being centered upon experimentation and exploration, with dishes being inspired by his extensive travels over the years. Split into sections, the menu is easy to navigate and has many delicious options for vegetarians and vegans. Choose from nibbles, small plates, and large plates or platters, followed by some delicious sounding indulgent desserts for afters.

Casual dining

Brighton offers many vegetarian friendly venues and Oculist is certainly one of them. Their fusion Middle Eastern menu is packed with plenty of meat-free options and packed with flavour. The menu is created by BaBBab – which creates mouthwatering kebabs and tasty sides. Incredible dishes such as the Roasted Veg and Red Pepper Flat Bread is just one of many to choose from. Oculist is in a prime spot, centrally located in The Lanes just a short walk away from the beach. 

*The kitchen at the Oculist will be closed until spring 2024

Arcobaleno is all about creating comfort food that’s perfect to share and good for you. Its menu has a strong Maltese influence which has elements similar to British and more familiar European fare. Plant based dishes include Kapunata, which is similar to ratatouille. The food is ideal for groups, so get some flatbreads and pickles for the table and build up a selection of plates to dip, scoop and share!

Jo and Co have plenty to offer when it comes to vegetarian dining, whether that’s for brunch, lunch or dinner. Jo’s Veggie is always a winner to satisfy your brunch cravings along with many more choices such as pancakes, shakshuka eggs, and your choice of Benedicts. If you’re visiting for lunch, the salads and mains are available from 12pm through to 9pm on Friday and Saturday’s for dinner.

Set down on the beach, Shelter Hall provides Brighton with a food hall experience akin to no other in town. Seven independent restaurants are housed there and many offer at least one great vegetarian option on their menu. From the veggie gyoza and baos courtesy of Little Bao Boy. Which includes vegan buttermilk, fried in panko breadcrumbs alongside lettuce, sriracha, spring onions and toasted sesame seeds. To Rudi’s, who serve vegan alternatives for their delicious burgers.

With a menu that champions seasonal and locally grown produce and a commitment to providing a balanced offering, there is nothing to fault with the vegetarian food choice at The Cider Tap. This idyllic farm-based restaurant in Sussex is in collaboration with The Syndicate Kitchen – a team who are renowned for their culinary flare – they cook what they grow and serve up a feast of deliciously paired dishes from the fields. You can book in for their Sunday Feast sessions or enjoy their brunch on the go or street food offerings – previously offering Sexmex which was Sussex’s finest produce and Mexican flavourful dishes.

Don’t let the name put you off because MEATliquor has a substantial vegetarian offering that’s well worth getting excited about. The York Place based cult burger joint is famed for its creativity, alluring and out of this world interiors and of course, its devilishly hedonistic food and drinks. Nothing has been spared on the veggie side of things, so you’ll get to feast up and drink up with the rest of them!

Lost Boys Land on London Road is a reimagining of the British chicken shop, emphasising quality and flavour while still keeping things convenient. For vegetarians, there are excellent options on burgers or nuggets and plenty of the Lost Boys famed sauces to dunk, drizzle or drench your chickenless ‘chicken’ in. 

From brunch until dinner, The New Club serves a very strong plant-based menu to diners in their New York style venue on Kings Road. It’s a cool mix of beards, beats, tattoos and paired back design, with a super confident menu delivering all-day diner style food. Vegan Benedict is a popular choice, or choose from the extensive pancake list served all day.

DaddyLonglegs is an excellent choice for vegetarians, with a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes available on their outstanding small plates menu. Some of the standout options for vegetarians include celeriac arancini, tenderstem broccoli, and bok choi. Additionally, their yakitori menu features a delectable teriyaki mushroom ‘steak’ that’s sure to satisfy vegetarian diners. With such diverse and flavourful choices, vegetarians can enjoy a delightful dining experience at this venue with live music during most weeks and an impressive wine selection. Don’t forget too, during the summer they host summer BBQs with vegetarian options also available. 

The Permit Room in Brighton, nestled in the historic Lanes, offers a diverse array of vegetarian options among its Indian small plates and breakfast served from 8-11.45am. The menu is rich with choices, including Aunty’s Anda Curry, a rich tomato curry which is delicious mopped up with a cheese naan! Whether you seek a quick vegetarian bite, a celebration meal, or simply catching up over a couple of drinks, the team at Permit Room will warmly welcome you!

For your lunch cravings, Social Board’s vegetarian options are simply irresistible. Indulge in delights such as the Halloumi (Hello, Me!) sandwich, featuring crispy halloumi, avocado, and marinated portobello mushroom. Or choose from their variety of veggie baps and breakfasts. Complement your meal with delectable sides like fries with honey truffle mayo or loaded halloumi fries. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or lunch, Social Board has you covered. Enjoy the convenience of delivery straight to your door or cosy up in their inviting Kemptown venue.

Plants around the world

Spanish restaurant, Tinto Taperia, has a strong vegetarian offering on their menu. In fact,  there’s a whole section dedicated to vegetable dishes. From the show stopping vegan paella, made to order with the freshest ingredients, to traditional tapas, and their weekly special – where there are always mouth-watering vegetarian options available. The casual atmosphere and intimate setting add to the experience, paired with the delicious Spanish cuisine and regional wines you’ll be taken to the Mediterranean. Tinto Taperia is located in a prime location in Brighton’s lively North Laine area and next to The Theatre Royal – perfect for a pre-theatre drink or meal. If you like cocktails, you can order t fantastic creations from Bar Valentino, located above the restaurant, while you enjoy your meal.

Italian food, when done properly, is all about simplicity so that the quality of the ingredients can shine through. For vegetarians, this means you’ll get a real tour de force of plant flavours that have been elevated. You’ll find a good selection of vegetarian dishes throughout the classic Italian menu, all made fresh and to order from this, the longest-serving Italian restaurant in Brighton. 

Lively Preston Road-based restaurant Kitgum is a hotspot of the Brighton culinary scene. While serving a combination of Gujarati and East African-influenced dishes they still manage to provide an excellent vegetarian offering. Always aiming to have a 50% plant-based menu that champions big flavour combinations with outstanding results. Small plate dining encourages sharing, which in turn means you’ll get to try more of the menu. And when the food tastes this good, that can only be a good thing!

Nostos is a Greek restaurant to Hove, overlooking the iconic Palmeira Square. Serving traditional cuisine, Nostos takes inspiration from the much loved classics of the Greek’s, meaning their vegetarian and vegan options are vast and effortless, given locals in Greece eat predominately plant based dishes made with seasonal and widely available fruit and vegetables. From spreads to main dishes, there is plenty to choose from. Don’t miss out on their brilliant wine list either, featuring delicious Greek food.

The Rum Kitchen on Black Lion Street in the Lanes serves great tasting, freshly prepared Caribbean food and a host of specialist rum cocktails. The online allergens menu is cleverly set up so you can hide all the things that you can’t or won’t eat, which is really rather nifty. About a third of the menu is vegetarian so you won’t be stuck for choice. And with tasty options like jerk barbecue, Crispy Fried Cauliflower (KFC) and Appleton glazed pulled jackfruit, you won’t be missing out on any of the delicious flavours that meat eaters will be enjoying either.

It is pretty well established that, traditionally, Indian food is largely vegetarian. Curry Leaf Cafe honours this tradition with a broad selection of vegetarian South Indian and street food dishes. The cafe’s menus are pretty much half and half animal and vegetarian earning it a place in Olive Magazine’s top 10 ‘flexitarian’ restaurants in the UK. All three of the Curry Leaf venues are a reliable destination on the vegetarian restaurant Brighton scene.

Enjoy tapas and small plates amongst the vibrancy of Market Restaurant in Hove and lose yourself for hours in authentic Spanish style. True to Spanish culture the menu boasts its “mi casa es tu casa” spirit and caterers well for most dietary requirements. Vegetarians will be pleased to hear that the kitchen is on hand and may be able to alter dishes if you herbivores fancy something that’s not quite appropriate.

Modern French bistro, Mange Tout were Best Brunch winners in the 2019 Brighton Restaurant Awards. The staples of their menu are supported by a daily changing blackboard menu based on what’s in season and available. Bringing you the best of what’s available, locally and organically. There’s always a few plant-based, French inspired dishes, meaning popping in on the off-chance isn’t a risk even if you’re veggie. 

Pub grub

The Mesmerist remains a beloved hotspot in Brighton for a guaranteed good night out, but its exceptional food offerings are somewhat of a hidden gem. Following recent menu changes, you can now enjoy a revamped dining experience featuring Tex-Mex inspired cuisine. With three distinct dining spaces to choose from, diners can savour imaginative and delicious options at lunch and dinner. The vegetarian and vegan options are always inventive, delicious, and there is a fantastic choice for vegetarians on Sunday roast days too. 

Having recently just upped their veggie and vegan game, a majority of the menu at The Dorset is now meat free and we are loving their options. Try the coconut curry served with tandoori marinated tofu or the veggie bean burger served with a healthy helping of avocado. Enjoy alongside a pint of Bevertown’s Gamma Ray or a crisp glass of white wine. Perfect…

Nestled in the picturesque village of Rottingdean, The Plough Inn is a traditional pub that caters to vegetarian diners. Relish the freshness of the Greek Salad, indulge in the satisfying Sussex halloumi burger, or savour the cheese Ploughman board, among other enticing choices. With its warm atmosphere and an array of vegetarian offerings, The Plough Inn provides a relaxed setting for a lunch or dinner.

Hove Place, the vibrant bistro pub nestled in the heart of Hove, is a go-to destination for food enthusiasts, including vegetarian diners. With a menu that caters to their needs, Hove Place offers a variety of mouthwatering vegetarian options. The staff gladly accommodates requests to make dishes vegetarian, and guests can refer to the comprehensive allergen menu that clearly indicates vegetarian options and suggests modifications to meet individual preferences.

The Ladies Mile pub in Patcham is a community hub, loved for its family-friendly ambiance and menu that caters to all tastes. Vegetarian diners will find plenty of delectable options to choose from, including a selection of vegetarian Sunday roasts. The menu also features an array of enticing small plates and main meals. With its warm atmosphere and delicious offerings, The Ladies Mile pub is the perfect destination for families and friends to enjoy lunch or dinner.

Discover The Cricketers, a pub brimming with warmth, charm, and history. Step inside and immerse yourself in its Victorian interiors, or soak up the sun on their fantastic terrace on a summer’s day. It’s the ultimate spot to relish a glass of wine or pint of beer, perfectly complemented by traditional pub food. We love the sounds of the ploughman’s ciabatta or halloumi burger.

Cafes

Lost in the Lanes is a cafe-bar on Nile Street in the boutique and arty centre of the Lanes. Their all day menu starts with some seriously good breakfasts, including vegetarian and vegan Full English options. Lunch is where Chef James Flavell really flexes his creative skill with a carefully created menu of six dishes that will deliver something unique and imaginative. There are always at least two strong vegetarian options and additional sides can make for a really fortifying meal. Excellent wines and cocktails make this Lanes cafe somewhere you’ll want to linger. 

Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey at Vios Cafe, where you can bask in the tranquillity of their inviting interiors or soak up the sun on their sunny terrace. Indulge in a delightful breakfast or brunch experience with options like loaded sourdough, pancakes, and tempting toasties. Treat yourself to a silky coffee paired with delectable sweet treats. For a more leisurely experience, unwind with a glass of Greek wine and savour the flavours of freshly made authentic meze. Vios Cafe is your ticket to Mediterranean bliss.

The brunch and lunch game at Baked, Hove, is strong. Their simple and focused menu means that what they do, they do with masterful expertise. Vegetarian diners will not be left unsatisfied by their herbivore offering from this charming neighbourhood cafe, they’re hospitality and inclusiveness stretches from the warm welcome you’ll receive on entry, right through to the fantastic selection of veggie friendly favourites on the menu. 

Starfish and Coffee is right next to the beautiful Queens Park in Brighton, it’s a cafe that specialises in brunch, pastries, homemade cakes and excellent tea & coffee. From pancakes with syrup to a luxurious eggs Benedict or a big slice of fresh homemade cake baked by Brighton baker, Berkson Bakes. There are vegetarian & vegan options plus gluten free bread and pastries available.