Brighton is one of the UK’s most beloved seaside destinations, famous for its vibrant culture, iconic pier, and buzzing food scene. When the sun is shining, nothing compares to enjoying a delicious meal outdoors with views of the coast. If you are looking for the best Brighton restaurants with outdoor seating, you will find everything from fine dining to casual beachfront cafés. This guide highlights ten outstanding Brighton seafront restaurants where you can relax, savour fresh food, and soak up the sea breeze.
Why Choose Brighton Restaurants with Outdoor Seating?
Dining outdoors brings a unique atmosphere to your meal. In Brighton, it means being surrounded by the sound of waves, fresh sea air, and the lively energy of a city that thrives by the water. Whether you are meeting friends, enjoying a romantic date, or taking the family out for a day by the coast, restaurants with outdoor seating provide the perfect setting.
What makes seafront restaurants Brighton particularly special is the variety of cuisines on offer. From locally sourced seafood to global flavours, there is something to suit every taste and budget. Many venues also provide heated terraces and covered areas, making al fresco dining enjoyable in every season.
1. Riddle and Finns – The Beach
Riddle and Finns is an institution in the Brighton food scene, renowned for its fresh seafood and champagne pairings. Situated directly on the seafront, its outdoor terrace gives diners uninterrupted views of the beach. It is one of the best Brighton seafront restaurants for oysters, lobster, and champagne in a lively yet elegant setting.
The menu celebrates locally sourced produce, and the atmosphere is as close as you can get to dining by the waves. For those seeking Brighton restaurants with outdoor seating that combine fine food with unbeatable scenery, Riddle and Finns is a must.
2. The Salt Room
Just moments from the seafront, The Salt Room is celebrated for its modern take on British seafood. Its terrace offers diners stunning sea views, making it one of the most stylish seafront restaurants Brighton has to offer. The focus is on grilled fish, steaks, and seasonal sharing plates, often cooked over coal for a smoky flavour.
The Salt Room balances sophistication with relaxed dining, perfect for special occasions. For those searching for high-end restaurants with outdoor seating, this venue delivers both elegance and coastal charm.
3. Lucky Beach Café
For a more casual experience, Lucky Beach Café is a Brighton favourite. Set directly on the beach, it is well known for sustainable sourcing and ethical practices. Their burgers, brunch dishes, and fair-trade coffee make this one of the best Brighton restaurants with outdoor seating for daytime dining.
The café’s relaxed beachside vibe makes it ideal for families or friends looking to enjoy a laid-back meal. With its eco-conscious ethos, Lucky Beach Café is a shining example of how Brighton seafront restaurants can offer both delicious food and responsible dining.
4. Ohso Social
Ohso Social combines a buzzing bar with casual dining right on the promenade. Its outdoor seating area is just steps from the sand, offering panoramic views of Brighton’s coastline. Popular dishes include seafood platters, burgers, and classic fish and chips.
This is one of the most versatile restaurants with outdoor seating in Brighton, perfect for a daytime coffee, an evening cocktail, or a relaxed meal by the sea. Its lively atmosphere makes it a go-to for groups looking for vibrant seafront restaurants Brighton style.
5. The Ginger Pig
Located slightly inland in Hove but close enough to the coast to catch the sea breeze, The Ginger Pig is part of the acclaimed Gingerman Group. With a charming outdoor terrace, it offers a gastropub experience focused on seasonal British produce.
While not directly on the promenade, its welcoming outdoor area makes it a strong contender among Brighton restaurants with outdoor seating. The Ginger Pig’s Sunday roasts and locally inspired dishes have earned it a loyal following across the city.
6. The Ivy in the Lanes
For glamour and style, The Ivy in the Lanes offers a stunning brasserie-style experience with an elegant courtyard for al fresco dining. Known for its classic British dishes and modern twists, it has become a hotspot for visitors seeking sophistication in the heart of Brighton.
Although not a traditional seafront location, its beautiful garden terrace secures its place among top restaurants with outdoor seating. It is ideal for brunches, afternoon teas, and celebratory dinners.
7. Brighton Beach Club
Brighton Beach Club is one of the most modern and striking Brighton seafront restaurants, set right on the beach with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a spacious terrace. Its contemporary menu features British and Mediterranean influences, from fresh seafood to mezze platters.
Its prime position makes it one of the best seafront restaurants Brighton for sunset dining. Whether enjoying a cocktail or a leisurely meal, this venue captures the essence of Brighton’s seaside lifestyle.
8. The Walrus
Situated near the seafront, The Walrus is a stylish pub with a beautiful roof terrace. Known for hearty pub food and craft drinks, it offers a mix of casual dining and lively social spaces.
Its rooftop garden makes it one of the more unique Brighton restaurants with outdoor seating. While the atmosphere is less formal than a traditional fine-dining venue, The Walrus is perfect for groups wanting a relaxed evening under the open sky.
9. Terre à Terre
For those seeking vegetarian or vegan dining, Terre à Terre is a Brighton icon. While its main seating is indoors, it also has a charming outdoor space that makes it one of the most inclusive restaurants with outdoor seating in the city.
The menu is creative, colourful, and internationally inspired, making it one of the best places for plant-based dining on the coast. Even meat-eaters are impressed by the bold flavours and inventive dishes.
10. Regency Restaurant
No guide to Brighton seafront restaurants would be complete without mentioning the Regency. This long-standing seafood restaurant sits opposite the West Pier and has been a favourite for locals and tourists alike for decades. Its outdoor seating area faces the seafront, offering classic seaside dining with fresh fish and traditional British dishes.
For visitors who want an authentic taste of Brighton’s food heritage, the Regency stands out as one of the best seafront restaurants Brighton has to offer.
Final Thoughts on Brighton Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
From fine dining at The Salt Room to casual bites at Lucky Beach Café, Brighton’s food scene offers something for everyone. What ties these venues together is their ability to combine great cuisine with memorable locations. Whether you are looking for high-end Brighton seafront restaurants or relaxed restaurants with outdoor seating, the city delivers options to match every occasion.
Brighton continues to evolve as a culinary destination, but one thing remains constant – the pleasure of dining outdoors by the sea. If you are planning a visit, these ten restaurants provide the perfect setting for a meal that combines taste, atmosphere, and unforgettable views.
