Among the tiny alleyways and independent clothes shops are quirky eateries with a fantastic array of options. Whether it's tapas, tasting menus or Caribbean nibbles that you're after, there's so much to choose from. We've weaved in and out of this famously cool area to whip up a stellar list of the best restaurants in The Lanes, Brighton.
Last edited by Marcus Sanigar
Last updated on 9th January 2026
Located in the lively heart of The Lanes, Giggling Squid Brighton pairs delicious Thai-inspired dishes with a chic bar and plenty of outdoor seating. From lunchtime tapas and Thai cocktails to evening feasts across three floors, the restaurant is ideal for both casual bites and more indulgent evenings out.
For those wanting a similar experience outside the city centre, the Hove location offers the same menu, style, and welcoming atmosphere just down the coast.
Just a pebble's throw from Brighton Beach, Burger & Lobster brings sensational surf and turf to the seaside. Whether you're on the lookout for a juicy beef burger or fresh wild Atlantic lobster, this place delivers with every bite.
With an oyster bar and eye-catching cocktail list for good measure, you can swing by for a casual lunch, boozy brunch or aphrodisiac-packed date.
No 32 has a gorge three-course set menu that will satisfy those tastebuds no matter what you're into. In this grand venue, start with stuffed aubergines, move onto a whole seabass, and then finish by indulging in a portion of sticky toffee pudding.
One of the best restaurants in Brighton's Lanes is knocking out high-end steak in classy settings. The Coal Shed showcases local produce cooked over a grill, like barbecued monkfish and eight-hour smoked beef short rib.
The Mesmerist is top of the class when considering the best pubs in The Lanes, Brighton. It serves bottomless brunch, bao buns and, like all top-tier boozers, plus a Sunday roast that's loved by locals and tourists alike.
Burnt Orange whips up classy small plates all day, with a strong amount of seafood and wood-fired small plates on offer. This stunning destination is filled with foliage and natural light, and there's a gorgeous garden terrace to boot.
Pop to this all-day destination for smoked lamb shoulder, skillet-baked potatoes or grilled Sussex halloumi, washed down with premium wines.
Don't be fooled by its name, The Breakfast Club can also be added to our list of lunch places in The Lanes you need to visit. We'd recommend trying its array of American brekkie choices centred around pancakes, syrup and bacon.
Looking for the best tapas Brighton Lanes has to offer? Well, be quick and book a table at Med. This is an idyllic venue for pals to share small plates like coronation cauliflower pakoras, grilled sardines and apricot miso-glazed lamb.
Kindling is simply one of the best restaurants in Brighton, where local produce is key and stunning flavours are everything. If you're feeling a little fancy - and who doesn't sometimes - book a table to indulge in the tasting menu.
One of the Lanes' most opulent restaurants, The Ivy Asia is an Instagram-worthy location for all occasions. This stunning spot is filled with colourful, glamourous decor, from a bright green floor to a cherry blossom tree and golden sculptures.
Sip killer cocktails, or swing by later on for live DJ sets. As for the menu, expect everything from spicy tuna and sesame rolls to barbecue duck salad or chargrilled salmon teriyaki.
Food For Friends is one of the Brighton restaurants you need to explore for a memorable dining experience. The intriguing menu showcases all sorts of mouthwatering eats, from charred sweetheart cabbage and squash rigatoni to massaman tofu curry.
Hidden among the twists and turns of Brighton's historic Lanes, Embers is a restaurant that puts fire front and centre. Founded by chef friends Dave and Isaac, the concept is simple and theatrical: everything is cooked over an open wood flame, built around their ethos of fire and friendship.
The menu leans into seasonal, flame-kissed dishes designed for sharing, from smoked bonito tataki and ember-baked aubergine to Iron Age pork chops and Somerset Saxon chicken. Inside, a medieval-style fire cage takes pride of place, with chefs cooking in full view, while inventive cocktails and a smart wine list keep things refreshed.
The oldest seafood restaurant in Brighton, English's has been around for more than 150 years. This historic spot prides itself on being warm, welcoming and elegant, blending old-world charm with a few modern touches.
Their seafood is locally sourced, ranging from freshly shucked oysters to native lobster and Dover sole. Plus, they've got private dining rooms for special occasions.
Lost in the Lanes brings you a beautiful blend of Sussex produce with Mediterranean culinary flair. Its parquet floors, statement artworks and elegant finishes make it perfect for a refined date night, sophisticated lunch or rejuvenating breakfast.
Whatever time you stop by, expect a menu that'll knock your socks off. We're talking banoffee honey toast, feta cigars, braised short rib and speckled chestnut tagliatelle.
A buzzing Indian restaurant inspired by the drinking dens of mid-century Bombay, Permit Room is a top spot for South Asian dining in the Lanes. The vibrant, colourful interiors feature vintage album covers and Indian-inspired artwork, while an eclectic mix of music plays in the background.
They serve hearty breakfast plates to start the day, including bacon naan rolls or a spiced full English. Later on, you'll find the likes of fragrant pulao, rich meat and vegetable curries or chaat, washed down with award-winning cocktails.
Sprawling across Brighton Square, Coppa Club is a stunning spot for both indoor and outdoor dining. It's filled with beautiful, colourful furnishings and warm lighting, with a terrace that features cosy igloos and lots of pretty foliage.
There's an extensive menu of European favourites, from stone-baked sourdough pizzas to smoked haddock and salmon fishcakes or plant-based burgers - washed down with refreshing cocktails.
