Whether you’re looking for fine dining, pub food, a romantic meal for 2 or a taste of something from further afield, eating out in Sussex really has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the best local restaurants and pubs
Simply click the text below to discover some of Sussex's best places to eat and drink…
10 more restaurants
The Driftwood - Bexhill
Bexhill-on-Sea is known for several things: modernist architecture, the birth of motor-racing and the widely held belief that it's the charity shop capital of Britain. It is not, perhaps, renowned for its gastronomy. So it's a pleasant surprise to encounter The Driftwood.
The Highdown - Worthing
The newest addition to the 71-strong pub chain Brunning & Price sits on the southern slopes of the Downs, between Littlehampton and Worthing. Adjacent to a vineyard and nestled within popular walking country, The Highdown boasts a large bar, restaurant, terrace and tea rooms, as well as 13 bedrooms.
The Ash Tree - Ashburnham
Five miles outside Battle and made up of a labyrinth of winding lanes, visitors to the village are most likely hikers traversing the 1066 route, finding themselves in desperate need of a pint and a calorie-rich fix before hitting the trail again. Thankfully, the Ash Tree Inn is happy to oblige, with the added bonus of a beer garden with awe-inspiring views of the High Weald.
No. 1 Broad Street - Cuckfield
If I was to sum up this restaurant in one word it would be 'harmonious'. From the relaxed surroundings and friendly, knowledgeable staff to the stunning food, everything worked. It's a meal I'll savour for a long time to come.
The Devil - Rye
In terms of doing what it says on the tin, The Devil in Rye does indeed serve wickedly good food. Perched at the top of the High Street and easily spotted thanks to its hellfire-coloured frontage, The Devil is one third of the award-winning Ambrette chain, owned by chef and restaurateur Dev Biswal.
The Glass House Restaurant - Albourne
The Glass House Restaurant at Wickwoods is set in beautiful countryside, just 15 minutes' drive outside of Brighton. Enjoy wonderful food in a woodland setting. The head chef James Villiers was a semi-finalist of Masterchef: The Professionals 2016.
Isaac At - Brighton
Isaac At creates uncomplicated, distilled dishes that allow the quality of the ingredients to shine through. The passion for local produce is evident.
Field & Fork - Chichester
Appearances can be deceiving. Which is what I'm reminding myself of as, leaving the hustle and bustle of North Street behind us, we step into an unlit side street and approach Field & Fork.
The Pelham Arms - Lewes
On a brisk winter's evening it's difficult to ignore a sign that reads, 'cosy pub this way'. And, thankfully, once inside, it's clear that we haven't been duped by false advertising.
Wingrove House - Alfriston
For those who make it past Alfriston's main attractions, an impressive and unexpected sight awaits them. Located at the southern end of the High Street, Wingrove House boasts a plantation-style façade, complete with pretty balustraded balconies and climbing plants, behind which are 12 bedrooms, a restaurant, and a private dining room. There's a well-kept lawn, packed borders and a terrace, perfect for a sundowner or two.
