The Best Pubs and Restaurants in Brighton
Have you ever wandered through the vibrant streets of Brighton, listening to the sound of music from the bars on one side, and the sound of waves on the other? If you haven't, then it’s time you did – so let us take you on a virtual tour of this beautiful British city, renowned for its eclectic mix of old-world charm, contemporary flair, LGBTQ+ inclusiveness, and some fine places to eat and drink. Brighton has come a long way.
Once a humble fishing village, it’s transformed into a bustling seaside resort, known for its iconic Brighton Pier, the Royal Pavilion, and its thriving arts scene. And did you know that this coastal gem is also the birthplace of notable personalities like DJ Fatboy Slim and YouTuber Zoella?
But what arguably sets Brighton apart is its food and drink scene – a tantalising blend of traditional pubs and innovative restaurants. So, with that in mind, here’s some of our favourite places to eat, drink and meet in Brighton.
Browns Brighton
A fixture in Brighton’s food and drink scene since 1973, Browns has made a name for itself offering classic Afternoon teas and brunches in an elegant brasserie setting.
Just a stone's throw away from the city centre, Browns Brighton welcomes you with its warm ambiance, and it’s a really gorgeous location too. A great place to start your food and drink journey, which you can learn more about here.
The Park View
Venture a little further to The Park View, a warm and welcoming pub that will make you feel right at home. With its selection of quality ales and hearty meals, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Plus if you’ve brought the whole squad with you, then you’ll find the private dining spaces a real bonus – nothing like having that sense of exclusivity when you’re out and about. Time it right and you might just find yourself in the middle of a pub quiz, and should you have four legged friends in tow, no problem: it’s a dog-friendly pub too.
The Devil’s Dyke
If you're up for a drive, The Devil's Dyke offers breathtaking views of the South Downs. If you’re after some traditional pub fare paired with local ales, you can’t go far wrong.
Named after the surrounding valley that it’s nestled within, the views are really something else and help to make for an unforgettable dining experience. A special mention too is that if you visit in the colder months, you’ll most likely to treated to a real crackling log fire as well – definitely a great way to warm up after venturing around this countryside location.
The Smuggler’s Rest
A little further along the coast (and ironically enough, pretty easy to find), you'll come across The Smuggler's Rest in Peacehaven. This charming pub pays homage to the town's smuggling history and serves up delicious food with a side of sea views.
But don’t worry, you won’t have to engage in any kind of illicit wheeler-dealing or take things across the border to be welcomed – just come along to enjoy the great food and drink that’s on offer, and you’ll fit in just fine. There’s also a really spacious pub garden to enjoy if the weather allows it, so this is a definite all-weather place to visit.
The Best of The Rest
In Hassocks, The Friar's Oak offers a cosy retreat with its traditional decor and extensive menu. Meanwhile, in Seaford, The Cuckmere Inn delights with its stunning riverside location and classic British dishes.
Venture into Worthing to discover The Swallow's Return, a family-friendly pub with a welcoming atmosphere. And in Pulborough and Haywards Heath, you'll find not one, but two Red Lions (this is the Pullborough one, while this is the Haywards Heath one) – each offering a unique dining experience that's quintessentially British. Finally, end your journey with a visit to The Beachy Head in Eastbourne, known for its panoramic views and hearty food.