Brighton and Hove is a jam-packed city full of incredibly diverse, eclectic and colourful cuisine. Whatever your craving may be, there is more than likely somewhere local to satisfy your stomach. From Indian to Middle Eastern and Caribee, Brighton has it all.
The following is a guide to some of the best places to eat – from the city centre and beyond – based on a survey of Sussex students. This compilation will include some of the best budget-friendly eats for student scran, along with higher end locations for your special occasions (or just to treat yourself).
Middle Eastern
Zaitoon – £
The Lanes’ Zaitoon boasts some of the best shawarma and baba ganoush Brighton has to offer. Inspired by the recipes of the owner’s mother, their meals are a comforting embrace of flavour. Doubling as a great study cafe – complete with free WiFi – they also offer delicious coffee for those sleepy study sessions.
Lavashr – £
Another homely and atmospheric Middle Eastern joint, Lavashr is an ideal lunch after a day of shopping in the Brighton Lanes. Specialising in delicious wraps (student favourites include the halloumi and the chicken), this spot has a beautiful outside courtyard downstairs reminiscent of a Turkish café.
Indian
The Chilli Pickle – ££
Situated near the North Laines, The Chilli Pickle is a renowned and highly acclaimed Indian restaurant. With a gorgeous interior and equally picturesque dishes, the quality of the atmosphere matches its food. The Chilli Pickle’s menu also includes an abundance of vegetarian options. A little on the pricey side for the portions, students recommend getting a few dishes to share with friends so as to split the bill. Customer favourites include the lamb biryani and chilli naan.
Eastern Eye – £
Located on London Road, Eastern Eye is the place for quality, authentic Indian food in Brighton. Less upmarket but no less delicious than The Chilli Pickle, they also offer a plethora of vegetarian and meat curries, as well as appetising starters such as fried squid.
East Asian
Pompoko – £
Great value for money along with a great taste is this Japanese spot’s main asset. Perfect for a lunchtime bite, Pompoko is located only a few minutes from Old Steine. Most dishes include a generous helping of rice or noodles, with a variety of delicious toppings such as chicken, beef and tofu prepared in various ways. Service is speedy, and Pompoko is lauded for generous helpings for cheap prices by students. However, make sure you come equipped with cash, as they do not accept card payments here.
Kogi – ££
An authentic Korean restaurant and BBQ, Kogi came up as many students’ pick for a delicious dinner in Brighton. Located on London Road next to the Hobgoblin pub, this atmospheric restaurant has a range of delicious food on offer, for a mid-range price. Dishes prepared in the kitchen include comforting bowls of spicy ramen, refreshing bibimbap (mixed rice bowl) and crunchy Korean fried chicken. If you fancy it, there are also BBQ grills on most of the tables inside, with which you’ll be provided top-quality meats, seafood, or veggies to self-cook. Be careful to book in advance (online) as Kogi is open for limited hours and is packed out most evenings.
Full House – £
Just minutes from London Road, Full House is a cheap and tasty Chinese restaurant with classic Chinese dishes and a spacey interior. They provide vast menu options for lunch and dinner, including favourites such as chow mein and fried rice. Students’ recommendations from Full House include their duck pancake, Sichuan beef and prawn dishes.
Caribbean
Rum Kitchen – ££
Rum Kitchen is a large, modern restaurant specialising in Caribbean and Caribbean-inspired food. For vegetarians, you can enjoy BBQ jackfruit and halloumi options, or crispy fried cauliflower for plant-based customers. Students recommend chicken wings and fried fish for meat eaters. As well as delicious Caribbean dishes, Rum Kitchen also offers pitchers of great and cheap cocktails to enjoy with your meal.
Rum Kitchen can be found near the Lanes on Black Lion Street.
Breadys Food Truck – £
For those living in Bevendean or closer to campus, Breadys is a high-quality local food truck which is a favourite for locals. Here, you can enjoy delectable Caribbean favourites such as jerk chicken and curried goat from a street-food style van. Portions are hefty and include a generous helping of rice and fried plantain alongside with your meal. For students, this is a great take-away option for those who can’t find the motivation to cook after a long day of uni work.
Italian
Pinocchio – £
For a delightful plate of authentic home-style Italian pasta, Pinocchio is a favourite. Ideally located in central Brighton, Pinocchio is a classy and comforting space with exceptional pizza, pasta – and all your other Italian cravings. Enjoy a glass of wine alongside a plate of spicy or creamy pasta here for the perfect end-of-week debrief.
Latin American
Las Iguanas – ££
Las Iguanas serves a range of Latin-American-inspired food; including Mexican, Brazilian and Argentinian dishes. All this, along with tapas and cheap cocktails have made it an ideal spot for students to enjoy. A popular offer for students includes a second cocktail or pitcher free with selected pitchers and cocktails.
African
Binta’s Cuisine – £
Binta’s is one of the most popular venues in the area for African cuisine, specialising in Nigerian food. Customers note their Jollof Rice and jerk chicken as standout dishes. Binta’s takeaway service is also lauded as efficient and convenient.
Kitgum – ££ (Gujarati and East African fusion)
While a fusion Indian and African restaurant, Kitgum is hailed for its authentic African flavours in particular in classic Indian dishes, East African flavours are utilised to create a beautiful combination of taste. Crispy lamb belly, pilsner tempura squid are a couple of the spot’s most sought after dishes. Kitgum can be found on Preston Road.
Abyssinia – £
Specialising in Ethiopian food, Abyssinia’s broad menu offers lamb, chicken, beef and a number of vegetarian options. It is an incredibly laid-back setting with relaxed music, creating a great vibe for your visit. Staff are also friendly and service is fast. The food on offer here is excellent and authentic, with some hot dishes for spice lovers and others without much heat.
