Fish + Liquor has become the latest addition to Brighton’s increasingly lauded foodie scene, serving up classic seaside favourite fish ‘n’ chip fare but with a gourmet twist, and in a retro, comic book-themed restaurant.

The interior of the restaurant has a sense of humour, with vintage comic book pages as wallpaper, a raw industrial themed bar and a 1970’s-flat-themed snug at the back for private parties, complete with retro furniture and décor.

The menu is predominantly centred around fresh fish and seafood, which is caught locally and responsibly, and use their chef’s own recipes to create upgraded versions of classic chippy favourites, including pea fritter with mint and yoghurt and battered cod fillet served in a brioche bun. A menu favourite is sure to be the ‘fish dog’ – a mouth-watering fish cake /hot dog hybrid. Traditional Fish and Chips, deluxe pies, prime beef burger with house sauce and king prawns and homemade battered sausage are also on the menu.

But enough about the fish. The ‘Liquor’ part of the restaurant’s name reflects the extremely well stocked bar, carrying spirits including Brighton Gin, and there’s even a mixologist on hand to whip up cocktails to complement your fish ‘n’ chips. Plus there is an extensive collection of craft beer, sourced locally and globally, and carefully chosen to match the dishes on the menu, including East Coast IPA, Belhaven and Draft Noble with bottles ranging from Double Hop Monster, the Goose Island Range and Brighton-brewed Bison Beer APA.

Set right on the seafront, opposite the Wheel and under the arches, Fish + Liquor provides shelter from the elements in the winter months, providing warming coffee which is locally roasted in Kemptown and cakes sourced from Sticky Fingers. Tables are stretched over the pavement for the warmer seasons, providing a view of the hustle and bustle of the promenade, and the chance to see the murmurations of starlings over the Pier at sunset.

Owner David Roberts says: “We saw a demand for people wanting local favourite fish ‘n’ chips on the beach, but in the comfort of a quirky restaurant, embracing the fun and vintage feel that Brighton loves. Customers are able to enjoy a cocktail or a cold beer with some classic British food, but with a gourmet twist”.

11 - 14 Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1PS; 01273 60 44 62; www.fishliquor.com; @fishliquor

***

READ ON

• Eating out in Sussex - best restaurants - 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.

• Brighton’s first specialist beer shop opening - Bison Beer Crafthouse - March 27 will see the opening of Brighton’s first specialist beer shop, Bison Beer Crafthouse, on East Street. The shop, situated just off the seafront, will be offering an eclectic range of beers with over 300 different varieties sourced from around the world.