Sure, dinner parties may sound fun, but after a hefty supermarket shop and a pile of washing up to tackle when your head is pounding, the idea starts to lose its shine. We say ditch the apron and nominate one of these top restaurants to do the hard work instead. From quirky and casual to a sophisticated soiree, check out our guide to the best private dining rooms in Brighton restaurants, with private hire spaces catering everything from 10-50 guests depending on your event.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 16th July 2024
Located in the town centre, Browns is a chic brasserie serving up modern British cuisine, fresh-caught seafood and mouthwatering cocktails. Open for brunch, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea, the restaurant boasts multiple spaces for private hire in Brighton, with a range of drinks and catering packages to pick from.
The Lion and Lobster is one of the oldest boozers in Brighton, and arguably one of the cosiest too. It's spread over three floors, with rooms available to hire to suit all types of events. There's even a rooftop terrace to venture out onto in the warmer months, plus great grub like beer-battered padron peppers with sweetcorn salsa and avocado.
Situated on Market Street in The Lanes, The Pump House is an old-school pub that dates back to 1766. Their private dining room is named after the original owner Miss Elliot, promising traditional decor and cosy leather seats. You can secure this spot for up to 55 guests, or 35 seated, where you and your friends can enjoy everything from baked macaroni cheese to fish platters or wild boar and chorizo pies - washed down with premium cask ales or spirits.
Hop off the train and head straight into Grand Central - one of our favourite drinking dens in town. Home to a gorgeous leafy roof terrace as well as its very own theatre, this place is prepped and primed for group dining in Brighton, with space for up to 55 seated guests in the Nightingale Room.
Looking out over the tranquil sea, The Gather Inn is a family-run place with a lot of character, and it makes a great venue for throwing a party in a scenic setting. The Lagoon View Bar hosts up to 150 revellers, plus there's locally sourced grub to chow down on, and top tipples to drink from a well-stocked bar.
Bringing Mexican-style sharing feasts and punchy margaritas to Brighton since 2016, Wahaca is a guaranteed winner for feasting in large groups. Whether you're looking for a birthday celebration or planning a hen do meal, the staff here will be more than happy to fill you in on the private dining options.
A buzzing Brighton boozer, The Mesmerist specialises in all things pub grub, alfresco bashes and thirst-quenching sips. With a spacious roof garden as well as a private 70s-themed cocktail lounge, this spot offers various spaces to suit all group sizes; The Birdcage hosts up to 60 guests, while the Flipside can fit 80.
As well as offering a good night's sleep among its restored 19th-century walls, Hotel Du Vin Brighton's private dining options are exquisite and versatile. The Dome, with a ceiling oozing wow factor, can host up to 100 guests for a banquet, whereas the bright and airy Bloomsbury room is perfect for an intimate get-together of around 10.
Nestled in the heart of The Lanes, you'll find one of Brighton's most beautiful restaurants - The Ivy. Private dining here equates to a wonderland of vibrant colours and stunning florals, and The Tidal Room is the perfect place for an intimate group dinner, offering space to seat up to 20 guests.
When it comes to private fine dining in Sussex, you would be hard-pushed to find anywhere quite as good as etch. Founded by Masterchef: The Professionals champ Steven Edwards, this contemporary restaurant offers a monthly-changing tasting menu for groups big and small.
A carnivore's dream, The Coal Shed is known for its mega meat offering - from decadent Sunday roasts to hefty Chateaubriand steaks. The Chef's Library is an elegant private dining space suitable for groups of 14, with various set menus for you to choose from.
Purveyors of delicious Sicilian suppers, Cin Cin is an award-winning restaurant catering for private dining in Hove. Boasting the perfect laid-back atmosphere for a group dinner, the open kitchen and U-shaped bar make for the dream party setting. Choose from set menus and even secure your own chef for the evening.
Looking for private dining within walking distance of Brighton beach? Riddle & Finns is an elegant Champagne and oyster bar offering just that. Specifically designed with special occasions in mind, this independent restaurant can cater for groups of up to 14.
