Battered sausages at 4am, 2-for-1 cocktails at Revs and one too many nights out on the seafront sum up my experience of university in Brighton. Back then, my idea of a nice meal was ditching Nando's in favour of bottomless dishes at Sushimania or whatever was on offer on Groupon. But now that I’m not living off maintenance loans and bar tips, I’ve got a taste for the finer things in life. 

Perched in a prime position on the sprawling beachfront, Brighton Beach Club couldn’t be far from the student dens that litter West Street. Occupying a coveted spot near the Old Pier, the two-storey restaurant stands out with its instantly recognisable exterior and inside is no different, as airy interiors give way to panoramic views out over the water.

Cool hues and stunning views make this a tranquil dining destination.

After a super sunny day exploring The Lanes and killing it on the pier’s 2p machines, a meal here was much needed. Keeping things classy (I’m mature now, I promise) I opted for the goat's cheese number (£6.75) which saw a beetroot and apple ‘tartare’ drizzled with a lemony hazelnut and cider dressing, before being topped with a thick disc of moreish cheese. My dinner date opted for calamari (£6.50) and was not disappointed by the thick morsels that appeared; perfectly crispy yet light at the same time.

Sticking to the Brighton staple of fish and chips (£12.95), beer-battered haddock was a welcome dish paired with tartare sauce and peas. Can’t say it was a mind-blower, but it did the job. Meanwhile, Devon-dressed crab (£16.95) was a sight for sore eyes. A huge mound of crab paired with Jersey Royals and salad, this was one for any seafood lover.

Classic British dishes in a quintessential Brighton situ.

Sipping on Aperol Spritzes (£8.95) and Easy Peeler brews (£5.50) as the sun began to set, we almost forgot that there was still dessert to be had. While the boyf was busy adjusting his blind (yep, there’s individual blinds at each table), I opted for an easy-going selection of vegan scoops (£1.75 each)… because is a beach day really a beach day if you haven’t had some form of ice cream?

The DesignMyNight Digest

Whether you’re a Brighton local or a day-tripper like me, Brighton Beach Club is well worth a visit. A mid-market spot, this is the kind of place for chilled date nights and weekday lunching. With reasonably priced dishes, charming service and unrivalled views of the seafront, you can’t really go wrong here.