Photo courtesy of Fishy Fishy Brasserie
It's no surprise that fish and chips on the seafront is often on the menu for Brighton holidaymakers - but if you're looking for a little more bite (locally sourced food AND incredible décor etc. etc.), we've managed to narrow the long list down to our top 5 favourite restaurants in Brighton...sort of.
FISHY FISHY SEAFOOD BRASSERIE
This charming three-story restaurant in the heart of the historic South Lanes not only serves the most amazing fresh, local and seasonal fish - they also play host to masterclasses in fish preparation and wine tasting. With covered outdoor seating, soak up some live street music whilst dining al-fresco or immerse yourself in the tasteful nautical decor indoors. It's no wonder PTD crew are regularly seen wining, dining or cocktailing here. Often frequented by celebrities and seafood-loving locals, it is strongly recommended to book a table in advance.
KOOKS
We love newly opened boho-bistro Kooks. Named after the David Bowie song, not the band, the brains behind the restaurant say their USP is their second to none music policy, which is admittedly, very good (on the night we visited Jamie XX's latest drop segued into some vintage Primal Scream and kept our feet tapping all night). The décor and mood of Kooks is super cool, from the stripped wood floor, to the framed record sleeve artwork and music influenced murals on the wall. More importantly, the food is to die for, we heartily recommend the steak salad (cooked to absolute perfection) and the gorgeous desserts (their key lime pie and brownies are just delicious). Team this with their perfectly concocted cocktails, great wine list and selection of ales and we think Kooks is pretty much the perfect recipe for a night out.
Utter the words Mexican street food in Brighton and La Choza immediately rolls of the tongue. This is the place for every occasion; birthdays, meet and greets and catch-ups. Get acquainted with fellow diners over drinks and finger-friendly Mexican food. When you take a moment away from the food to look around, witness everyone enjoying themselves! They have a winning formula, with their bright colour schemes and healthy-sized portions with salsa as you like. Book a table in advance or if you're told to come back, there's some great pubs nearby to pass some time. 36 Gloucester Rd, Brighton, 01273 945926.
64 DEGREES
64 degrees is nestled into a South lanes side street and is as tiny as a broom cupboard yet this adds to its delightfulness to the overall dining experience. The food is artfully prepared in full view with a centred open kitchen and bar area. With just a few tables and a bar seating area, it's advised to give them a call before you visit. Upon arrival, the restaurant the staff are friendly, warm and passionate about the food they are creating. A small menu of dishes rather like a tapas bar (although don't mention the word tapas in their presence!) allows you to sample a variety of dishes all made for sharing and sampling the eclectic mix of ingredients and tastes.
The name references the precise temperature that the food is cooked at in the open kitchen. The chefs are focused and skilled producing a special dining experience. The ambience of the restaurant is friendly and social, if you want to try something a little different whilst supporting local growers and producers this is the place to go. 53 Meeting House Ln. 01273 770115. www.64degrees.co.uk
PLATEAU
Recommended by Posh Totty Designs Founder, Alice Rivers-Cripps, Plateau is perfectly situated in the South Lanes and is the place for dining and cocktails on those special occasions. Perch at the bar for a cheeky pre or post party drink or two or get cosy with a loved one amongst their modern setting and bare brick interior. You'll be pleased to hear their menu is designed around the idea of sharing, with an array of sharing platters (plateaux), bites and main meals on offer as well as carefully chosen natural wines. Steaks are cooked to perfection and the cocktail list is brimming with classics with a unique Plateau- twist. Their hospitality and service is second to none. 1 Bartholowmews. 01273 733085. www.plateaubrighton.co.uk
Carlito Burrito
We couldn't resist mentioning one of our recent favourites, Carlito Burrito are now serving their Mexican street food at The Cow in Seven Dials. Think Mexican platters served in a volcanic tower of goodness. Curious? We urge you to pop in sometime soon! 95-97 Dyke Rd, Seven Dials, 01273 772370. www.thecow.pub
Whilst wining and dining in Brighton, don't forget to pop into our shop in The North Laine's find us here
