West Sussex Restaurant Guide

“It’s so romantic” eating in this historic venue, complete with peacocks, ruined ramparts and working portcullis! Inevitably it’s not the best option for a cheap date and opinions are mixed as to the value it delivers – for critics the cuisine is “not special enough” and the dining room “lacks ambience despite its evident history”, but more typical is a reviewer who feels “it’s a bit overpriced” but still finds it “a lovely experience”.

“Enjoy the bluebells on the way to this rather tucked away pub” – a “well-restored country inn” bought a few years ago by London über-chef Tom Sellers from its former owner, DJ Chris Evans, which “serves food in both the bar (with open fire) and, more formally, upstairs”. One reviewer found it “trying way too hard for a Michelin star”, but most of the many reports we received this year were full of praise for its “seriously high standard of cooking” and “enchanting staff”.

“After a change of management, the food is now pretty good to excellent and the service is friendly (if not always slick)” at this 16th century gastropub with rooms, which since November 2016 has been run by Simon and Mark Dennis, owners of Cuckfield’s Rose & Crown.

Limited but upbeat feedback on this West Sussex pub run by father-and-son team, Mark and Simon Dennis since 2014. Dishes are imaginative rather than being unduly fancy, and wine-match suggestions are a feature on the range of menus.

In beautiful Sussex countryside, this “superb” Elizabethan country house hotel makes a “romantic” retreat from ‘the smoke’, “with a wonderful dining room and rooms that are to die for”. One former fan had a poor visit here this year, but the majority of feedback lauds Steve Crane’s accomplished cuisine (there’s an à la carte, or choice of six- and seven-course tasting menus).

Chef Lee Parsons – who honed his skills at Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir et al – and wife Liz have opened their first restaurant in this picturesque town, showcasing West Sussex produce.

The New Street Bar & Grill opened in May 2018 in the market town of Petworth at the heart of the South Downs National Park. The fresh and modern interior encourages relaxed dining thoughout the week as well being a fantastic venue for parties and special occassions.