Best Seafront Restaurants In Brighton

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By Lauren Cole • Lead Editor, DesignMyNight Our Lead Editor, Lauren, has written about the UK's best restaurants, bars and experiences on DesignMyNight since 2021. Bylines in What's On Media Group. Last updated on 29th September 2026

Sure, fish 'n' chips on the beach may sound idyllic. But in reality? Between fending off gulls and battling the blustery weather, you'll be lucky to cram in a couple of forkfuls before abandoning ship. Whether it's rustic kitchens under archways or chic dining rooms touting stunning scenes, we have rounded up the best seafront restaurants in Brighton.




Riddle & Finns Brighton Beach

Brighton's best-known seafood restaurant sits in the restored Victorian Rotunda on Kings Road, perched directly above the promenade with the West Pier ruins in one direction and the Palace Pier in the other. Fish and seafood come daily from Hove Lagoon's fish market, straight off Brighton beach. The menu moves with the catch: oysters, langoustines on ice, seared scallops, tempura monkfish, fruits de mer platters and a changing selection of main dishes.

Pearly Cow Brighton

One of Brighton's most exciting recent openings, Pearly Cow sits on Kings Road directly opposite the ruins of the West Pier, one of the best views you'll get from a table on the seafront. The kitchen, led by Andy MacKenzie, runs on Sussex beef and locally caught seafood, cooked simply over open flame or served raw on ice. The 45-day salt-aged steaks are the main event, alongside Whitstable oysters, fresh fish tacos, and a seasonal menu that moves with what's available from the South Downs and surrounding coastline.

Drift

Next to the iconic i360, Drift puts you right on the seafront. Bringing the spirit of Ibiza to Brighton, it's the perfect place to unwind, graze, sip and soak up the sunshine.

Outside, the rooftop terrace offers sweeping views over the sea - perfect for golden hour drinks, sharing plates and long summer evenings. Inside is just as stylish - think natural textures with ocean tones that create a calm and effortlessly cool atmosphere.

Shelter Hall

Home to several kitchens alongside two cocktail, wine and beer bars, Shelter Hall offers several places to eat under one roof. This best-loved venue provides amazing views of the Sussex coastline all while giving you the opportunity to relax with a drink in hand.

Take a seat on the terrace to really appreciate the seafront, while chowing down on sushi, local wagyu burgers, Neapolitan pizzas and so much more.

OHSO Social

Backing onto the pebbles, this beachfront restaurant is bringing you an outdoor terrace packed with stunning views and party vibes when the sun goes down. Be sure to keep up with Ohso Social's calendar for your fix of themed happenings or craft nights. And for the colder month? The outside is taken over by adorable heated winter pods. 

Cyan

Housed within the iconic Grand Brighton hotel, Cyan is one of the city's most impressive seafront restaurants. The sophisticated interiors feature 155-year-old marble columns and eco-friendly local artwork, and the elegant conservatory offers sweeping sea views and plenty of natural light.

The menu showcases modern British dining, featuring everything from locally sourced ribeye steaks to grilled lobster or pea and mint ravioli - as well as spectacualr Sunday roasts. Pair your meal with a cocktail from the restaurant's beautiful circular bar, or one of their many wines.