Quirky restaurants in Brighton

Sushi on a conveyor belt? Consider us sold! This sushi restaurant is a favourite with both locals and visitors, their commitment to sustainable fishing, mixed with delicious food convincing people to return time and time again. Eating options like the aforementioned conveyor belt, and the bento booth boat featuring their best sushi and sashimi “omakase-style” (where the chef chooses your dishes for you) make this one of the best quirky restaurants in Brighton.

Think friendly staff, and eye-popping food, and you’ve got an idea of what the Chilli Pickle is like. Described by Tom Parker-Bowles as “kitsch”, the interior of the Chilli Pickle is certainly bright, with pinks, blues, and greens all clashing in a fabulous way. Famous for their thalis, they also serve up authentic Indian dishes like a kerala fish fry; seabream with a crispy coating, served with pineapple and a curry leaf dipping sauce, alongside more classic dishes like a tandoori chilli paneer tikka.

The most famous part of Brighton (aside from the Royal Pavilion, perhaps) is the pier. So what better spot to place a restaurant? Situated right under the British Airways i360, this restaurant has some of the best views in the city, and is the perfect place to hang out on a sunny day. The fact that you can have some great food like crumbed catch of the day, then head up the i360 tower makes this one of our favourite restaurants in Brighton.

Is it a restaurant? A bar? A wine shop? Well, it’s kinda all of them. This Brighton venue sells a huge variety of wines, complemented by a menu that’s been specifically created to match their wines, and does wine tasting events too. Try out wines like the Chateau Civrac from Bordeaux, by the bottle or the glass, and nibble on small plates like mackerel pate, cheeseboards, and blue cheese served with honey and walnuts. With its laid-back atmosphere, and something-always-happening vibe, it’s no wonder it’s on our list of quirky restaurants in Brighton.

Situated in a boutique hotel (decorated by local artists), The Set is a teeny restaurant of just 20 covers. Carrying on the bohemian vibe of the hotel, this place features stripped back walls, cool lighting, and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs cook up your choice from the three set menus available. (Helpfully named, One, Two, and Three. No messing about here.) Ingredients like summer vegetables sit alongside the quirkier jerk monkfish and nashi pear, meaning you’re never entirely sure what tastes you’ll be experiencing next, just that it will be delicious.