Brighton, a vibrant seaside city on the southern coast of England, is not just famous for its iconic pier and lively cultural scene but also for its diverse and ever-evolving culinary landscape. The city offers a rich tapestry of flavors, reflecting its eclectic community and a strong emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. During my visit, I embarked on a gastronomic adventure, exploring some of Brighton’s best restaurants.
1. The Salt Room: A Feast by the Sea
Location: 106 King’s Road, Brighton BN1 2FU, United Kingdom
How to Get There: The Salt Room is conveniently located on Brighton’s seafront, just a 10-minute walk from Brighton railway station. You can easily reach it by heading south on Queens Road, turning right onto West Street, and continuing until you reach the seafront.
My Experience: As a lover of seafood, The Salt Room was at the top of my list, and it did not disappoint. This modern British restaurant specializes in sustainably sourced seafood, with a menu that celebrates the best of the British coast. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, with large windows offering stunning views of the sea—especially during sunset.
I started with the ‘Mackerel Tartare,’ a beautifully presented dish with a perfect balance of freshness and acidity. For the main course, I opted for the ‘Whole Roasted South Coast Monkfish,’ which was served with a rich brown butter sauce and seasonal vegetables. The fish was cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavor. Dessert was a playful ‘Taste of the Pier’ platter, which included mini versions of traditional seaside treats like doughnuts and rock candy.
Price Range: Dining at The Salt Room is a bit of a splurge, with starters ranging from £10-£15 and mains around £25-£35. However, they offer a great value lunch menu, which includes two courses for £20 or three for £25.
Recommendation: I highly recommend making a reservation, especially for dinner, as this place is quite popular. You can easily book a table through their website. For a special experience, try to secure a window seat to enjoy the sea views.
Nearby Attractions: After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along Brighton Beach or visit the nearby British Airways i360 for panoramic views of the city.
2. The Coal Shed: A Meat Lover’s Paradise
Location: 8 Boyce’s St, Brighton BN1 1AN, United Kingdom
How to Get There: The Coal Shed is tucked away on a side street just off the bustling North Street, about a 7-minute walk from Brighton railway station. It’s easy to find by heading south on Queens Road, turning left onto North Street, and then taking a right onto Boyce’s Street.
My Experience: The Coal Shed is a haven for meat lovers, with a menu focused on high-quality, locally sourced meats cooked over an open flame. The restaurant has a cozy, intimate feel, with exposed brick walls and dim lighting that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I began with the ‘Smoked Beef Carpaccio,’ a delicate dish that was packed with smoky flavor and served with a tangy mustard dressing. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the ‘Sharing Steak,’ a 35-day aged rib-eye that was perfectly cooked and served with a selection of sauces and sides. The steak was tender and full of deep, rich flavors that spoke of expert preparation and top-quality ingredients. I paired the meal with a glass of Malbec, which complemented the meat beautifully.
Price Range: The Coal Shed is on the pricier side, with starters around £10-£15 and mains from £20-£35. The sharing steaks, designed for two, are priced at around £60-£80, but the quality and portion sizes make it well worth the investment.
Recommendation: If you’re visiting on the weekend, I suggest trying their Sunday roast, which is a local favorite. They also offer a pre-theatre menu, which is a more affordable way to sample their offerings.
Nearby Attractions: The Coal Shed is close to The Lanes, Brighton’s historic shopping district. After dinner, explore the narrow, winding streets filled with unique shops and cafés.
3. Silo: A Zero-Waste Dining Experience
Location: 39 Upper Gardner St, Brighton BN1 4AN, United Kingdom
How to Get There: Silo is located in the North Laine area, just a 5-minute walk from Brighton railway station. Head down Trafalgar Street, turn right onto Upper Gardner Street, and you’ll find Silo tucked away on this quieter street.
My Experience: Silo is not just a restaurant; it’s a statement. As the UK’s first zero-waste restaurant, Silo is committed to sustainability in every aspect of its operation, from sourcing ingredients directly from farmers to composting all leftovers. The interior is minimalist, with a focus on recycled and upcycled materials, creating a unique, eco-friendly atmosphere.
The menu at Silo changes daily, reflecting the availability of seasonal ingredients. During my visit, I started with a dish of ‘Fermented Vegetables with House-made Sourdough,’ which was an explosion of flavors and textures, highlighting the natural sweetness and acidity of the vegetables. For the main course, I enjoyed a ‘Heritage Wheat Risotto’ with wild mushrooms, a comforting and hearty dish that showcased the quality of the ingredients.
Price Range: Silo is moderately priced, with dishes ranging from £8-£15. They also offer a tasting menu for around £45, which allows you to experience a variety of their innovative dishes.
Recommendation: Silo’s ethos and food make it a must-visit for anyone interested in sustainable dining. Be sure to book in advance, as the restaurant’s reputation often leads to it being fully booked, especially on weekends.
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Silo, take a walk through the vibrant North Laine area, known for its independent shops, street art, and cultural venues like the Brighton Dome.
4. The Chilli Pickle: A Modern Indian Feast
Location: 17 Jubilee St, Brighton BN1 1GE, United Kingdom
How to Get There: The Chilli Pickle is centrally located in Jubilee Square, just a short 5-minute walk from Brighton railway station. You can reach it by heading down Queens Road, turning left onto Church Street, and then continuing until you reach Jubilee Street.
My Experience: The Chilli Pickle offers a modern take on Indian cuisine, with a menu that draws from all corners of India, featuring bold flavors and inventive dishes. The restaurant’s interior is colorful and vibrant, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indian culture.
I started my meal with the ‘Pani Puri,’ crispy wheat puffs filled with spicy tamarind water, which were a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. For the main course, I opted for the ‘Grand Thali,’ a generous platter that included a variety of dishes, from rich curries to tangy chutneys, each more delicious than the last. The lamb rogan josh was particularly memorable, with tender pieces of meat simmered in a fragrant, spicy sauce. To cool down the heat, I enjoyed a refreshing mango lassi, which was the perfect complement to the spices.
Price Range: The Chilli Pickle offers a range of options, with small plates around £6-£8 and larger mains from £12-£20. The Grand Thali is priced at £22.95 and is a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
Recommendation: The Chilli Pickle is a great spot for lunch or dinner, and their takeaway options are perfect if you want to enjoy their food in the comfort of your hotel or by the seaside. Booking is recommended, especially for dinner and weekends.
Nearby Attractions: The restaurant is located near the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, making it a great spot to grab a bite after exploring the city’s cultural offerings.
5. Murmur: Seaside Dining with a Modern Twist
Location: 91-96 King’s Rd Arches, Brighton BN1 2FN, United Kingdom
How to Get There: Murmur is situated on Brighton’s iconic seafront, just a 15-minute walk from Brighton railway station. From the station, head south on Queens Road, turn right onto West Street, and continue until you reach the seafront. The restaurant is located in the historic arches by the beach.
My Experience: Murmur is a sister restaurant to the renowned 64 Degrees, offering a more relaxed dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The setting is casual yet stylish, with large windows that offer panoramic views of the sea.
I started with the ‘Crispy Squid,’ which was perfectly cooked and served with a tangy aioli that complemented the dish beautifully. For the main course, I had the ‘Baked Cod with Chickpeas and Chorizo,’ a hearty and flavorful dish that was both satisfying and light. The combination of the tender fish with the spicy chorizo was a revelation. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the ‘Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart,’ which was rich, decadent, and utterly delicious.
Price Range: Murmur offers excellent value for its location, with starters around £8-£12 and mains from £15-£25. The set lunch menu, available on weekdays, is a great deal at £20 for two courses or £25 for three.
Recommendation: Murmur is ideal for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner by the sea. I recommend booking a table by the window to enjoy the views. Their brunch menu is also highly recommended, especially on a sunny weekend.
Nearby Attractions: After your meal, take a stroll along Brighton Beach or visit the nearby British Airways i360 for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
6. Baqueano: Argentine Flavors in the Heart of Brighton
Location: 125 Gloucester Rd, Brighton BN1 4AF, United Kingdom
How to Get There: Baqueano is located in the North Laine area, about a 10-minute walk from Brighton railway station. Head down Trafalgar Street, turn left onto Upper Gardner Street, and then right onto Gloucester Road.
My Experience: Baqueano is a small, family-run restaurant that brings the flavors of Argentina to Brighton. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with rustic decor that reflects the restaurant’s Argentine roots. The service was personal and attentive, making the dining experience feel special from the moment I walked in.
I started with the ‘Empanadas,’ traditional Argentine pastries filled with beef, olives, and eggs. They were perfectly baked, with a crispy crust and a savory filling. For the main course, I chose the ‘Parrillada,’ a mixed grill of Argentine meats including chorizo, short ribs, and flank steak. The meats were expertly cooked, juicy, and packed with flavor. The meal was accompanied by a classic chimichurri sauce that added a fresh, herby note to the rich meats.
Price Range: Baqueano is moderately priced, with starters around £5-£10 and mains from £15-£25. The Parrillada is priced at £25 per person and is a must-try for meat lovers.
Recommendation: Baqueano is a great spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or family. The restaurant is small, so I recommend booking in advance to secure a table, especially on weekends.
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Baqueano, explore the nearby North Laine area, known for its eclectic mix of shops, street art, and vibrant atmosphere.
Brighton is a city that truly caters to food lovers, with a diverse range of restaurants that offer everything from sustainable dining to bold, international flavors. Each of the restaurants I visited provided a unique culinary experience, and I highly recommend adding them to your itinerary when you visit Brighton. Whether you’re looking for a seafood feast, a meat lover’s paradise, or a taste of something more exotic, Brighton’s dining scene has something to offer everyone.
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