Visiting Brighton and looking for some great places to eat and drink in my favourite seaside city? I’ve rounded up my favourite places to eat and drink in Brighton and Hove.
I’ve also included a handful I haven’t got to yet but would love to try. So, let’s dive in!
Cafes and coffee shops
The Botanist – often my first stop in the North Laine, the Botanist now has three locations. But my favourite is still the original on Gloucester Road. Small but perfectly formed, this cosy corner space is full of trailing plants, making it a welcoming place to relax with a hot drink.
The hot chocolate here is the best in town. As I don’t drink coffee, why not check out all these positive reviews! They also have a small selection of fresh pastries and sandwiches to go.
(Their other two locations are right by Brighton Pavillion and in Hove)
Another tiny-but-perfectly-formed choice in the North Laine, Black Mocha are renowned for their milk and dark hot chocolates. They also have great brunch choices. Upstairs has slightly more space.
Only recently opened, this Brazilian-owned cafe in Pool Valley (just off the seafront) does the best brigadeiros, which are a popular Brazilian sweet made of condensed milk and chocolate. Cocoa Corner Cafe have elevated these to an art, with different fillings like mint and creme brulee in colourful chocolate coatings. They’re really beautiful to look at and taste amazing!
Mexican
La Choza (North Laine)
Always a favourite for tasty Mexican food in a colourful setting. Great cocktails too.
Pub food with a twist
Brighton pubs offer some great choices away from your traditional pub grub, although there’s plenty of that too.
The Pond (North Laine) – one of Brighton’s coolest pubs, The Pond serves up bao buns and great cocktails
Namo Eat at The Eagle (North Laine) – amazing authentic Thai food
On the go/lunch
A Brighton institution! Their bagels are freshly baked and the fillings are delicious.
We Love Falafel (North Laine)
Another long time fave of mine on Sydney St in the North Laine. Order the falafel melt, you won’t regret it. Four kinds of falafel made fresh every day.
Run by Argentinians, Malo does amazing empanadas. With a variety of fillings and specials, you can also order online if you can’t get to their Duke Street store.
Malaysian
Recently opened on the edge of The Lanes, Roti King is perfect for a Malaysian fix. The best roti, as you’d expect, and tasty dahl. It’s my go-to for a quick meal before a gig these days.
Seafront
The tiny seafront hole-in-the wall fish place has been there for years and does the best fresh fish sandwiches. You can find it right next to the Fishing Museum.
Preston Circus
I discovered this place when visiting some Artists Open Houses back in May. Haven’t tried the food yet but the small plates look very tempting!
Hidden round the back of Preston Circus, Unbarred is a great taproom for hopheads and more casual meetups. They do various events and have a knowledgeable, friendly staff.
Hove
An old favourite which always delivers. Spread over three floors, the L&L is a Brighton institution for a reason. It’s a rabbit warren and a great place to go with a group of friends. If I were twenty years younger, I’d say the vibes are immaculate.
Another favourite of craft beer lovers, Bison Brewery owns several bars including a great one down on the Marina end of the seafront. I still miss their North Laine venue, but this is a great alternative.
Places I’d like to try
Halisco (Mexican), The Salt Room (seafood), Little Fish Market and Bincho Yakitori (Japanese).