Brighton, Fish & Seafood Restaurant Guide

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.

“A real find in tourist-trap Brighton” – this Lanes oyster bar (with a spinoff near the front) serves classic platters of crustacea alongside a full menu of fish dishes. “We were a large greedy party and every course was delicious. All sauces benefitted from a base of well-reduced fish stock”.

“Now a Brighton institution” – this “firm favourite for seafood” is a spinoff of a Lanes oyster bar, acclaimed for “cooking that’s reliable, precise and unfussy, with quality ingredients at the fore”. We’ve maintained its ratings, although in mid-2021 – around the time of our survey – it upped sticks for a new home just around the corner from its former very atmospheric setting, right on the beach (premises that have reverted to their former identity, Due South, see also).

“Amazing fish and chips” of the old-school variety make this traditional seafront operation “a bit of an anachronism” in trendy contemporary Brighton – “but all the better for it”. There’s an “outstanding range of fresh fish and seafood”, all at “good-value” prices – no wonder it’s “always busy”.

Great British Menu winner Michael Bremner’s sibling to 64 Degrees, right under The Arches on the seafront, makes a “great place to eat outside by the promenade and watch the world go by while eating delicious fish!”. Feedback this year did suggest, however, that it's been “slightly off its game very recently”, with a number of reports featuring meals that were “a bit of a mixed bag”.

“Duncan Ray is one of the UK’s best but relatively unsung chefs”, say fans of his “small but perfectly formed” Hove 20-seater. “He continues to put 100% into improving the entire offer, not just the omakase-inspired tasting menu” (fish-centric, and entirely prepared by the aptly named Ray) “which is more sophisticated and delicious than ever, but also refurbished surroundings and a new front-of-house team”.

A pub “for lovers of fruits de mer”, washed down with Larrikin craft beers from the on-site brewery. There’s “a short menu which could change a little more, but simple pub grub this ain’t” – and the “excellent seafood is so so delicious”.