29-31 East St, Brighton, BN1 1HL
Harden's survey result
Summary
“The terrace is fabulous on a sunny day at this traditional seafood operation” – a feature of the Lanes since the 1890s and owned by the Leigh-Jones family since 1945 (and as such, one of the UK’s most venerable restaurants). Diners differ, though, on its overall performance although even fans concede tables are “squeezed in”. To its biggest fans its straightforward menu of oysters, crab, caviar lobster and other fish and seafood (plus items like steak and a handful of non-fish dishes) is “not the cheapest, but provides the best value in Brighton as it’s always reliable and doesn’t try to do too much”. Sceptics “expected more from this long-term fish specialist”, either judging it “plain and old fashioned” or even an “(expensive) tourist trap”. Perhaps the best overall verdict is that “quality varies and it’s best to stick to the standards”. Top Menu Tips – “fish pie is still the star for me…”; “love it for its very fresh oysters”.
Summary
“Traditional seafood in pleasant surroundings” has proved an enduring formula for this seafood veteran in the Lanes – one of the UK’s few historic provincial restaurants, dating as it does from the 1890s and run by the Leigh-Jones family since 1945. More critical reports say the “food quality can be a little hit or miss”; or alternatively that it’s “very good, but more pricey than it needs to be”. But “sat outside enjoying the sun, with great service and full-on Brighton atmosphere, you can have a great meal”.
Summary
“Great seafood” has long made this Lanes institution – one of the UK’s truly venerable restaurants, dating from the 1890s and run by the Leigh-Jones family since 1945 – something of a “Brighton favourite”. “If you can bag a table outside in the sun on the Lanes, with the hustle and bustle of the town around you and your partner opposite, the world will be good”.
Summary
A “usually buzzing venue in the centre of Brighton serving great fish dishes” (including “lovely lobster thermidor”) since 1945 under current owners the Leigh-Jones family – and around since way back in the 1890s. The terrace is perfect for soaking up sunny days amid the appealing bustle of the Lanes.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at English’s?
Owner's description
Whether you’re looking for a traditional plate of seafood, or in the mood to sample our contemporary twist on classic dishes, our expert staff will make sure you order the right meal for you, with wine to match. We offer a unique dining experience, with intimate dining rooms attended by passionate and informed staff. In warmer weather there is no better place to dine than on our heated terrace. Enjoy plates of fresh seafood, fine wines and warm sunshine, and watch the world go by with live jazz or opera playing regularly. Or take a seat at our stunning marble-topped oyster bar, where you can join us for a platter of oysters or a decadent three-course meal.
Prices
| Availability | 2 courses | 3 courses |  |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch | £25.00 | £30.00 |  |
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Traditional European menu
| Starter | Main | Veggies | Pudding |
|---|---|---|---|
| £15.00 | £23.00 | £0.00 | £9.00 |
| Drinks |
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|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £31.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £2.75 |
| Extras |
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|---|---|
| Bread | £0.00 |
| Service | 12.50% |
Restaurant details
English’s Restaurant Diner Reviews
"Really nice seafood restaurant "
29-31 East St, Brighton, BN1 1HL
Opening hours
| Monday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9:30 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9:30 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑5 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
