A Vegetarian and Vegan Guide to Brighton

We all remember the fish and chips, battered sausages and ice cream from childhood trips to the seaside. Luckily, Brighton has a lot to offer those following a meat-free or plant-based diet as well. Complimenting the city’s quirky charm and liberal vibe, Brighton has a generous helping of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, some of which even rivals London’s offerings. We’ve created a comprehensive guide for vegans and vegetarians in Brighton, from pizza through to pub grub and kebabs.

By Rex Adams | Updated Nov 30 2023

A vibrant salad with green lettuce, purple petals, yellow radish slices, white radish slices, various herbs, and fried topping bits, all served on a white plate. — Terre a Terre

Forget fish and chips; Brighton boasts more than just vegan and vegetarian friendly spots—it's practically a botanical buffet! From vegan Cornish pasties to cruelty-free kicks, Brighton has been living its best green life while we've been none the wiser. With over 240 vegan & veggie-friendly eateries and the title of the most vegan-friendly city in the world, and you're about to discover why.

Botanique

A gourmet dish on a ceramic plate features caramelized fennel, yellow puree, and scattered black olives, garnished with fresh microgreens. A napkin and cutlery rest on the rustic wooden table beside the plate, and the edge of a wine glass is partially visible. — botaniquebrighton.com

31a Western Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 1AF

This boho-chic gem, an offspring of the creators of Food For Friends, boasts a modern-rustic interior with a minimalist vibe, setting the stage for a culinary experience that's anything but ordinary. Open for brunch, lunch, dinner, and Sunday lunch, Botanique's 100% plant-based menu is a seasonal symphony, marrying global cooking styles with locally sourced organic ingredients. From indulgent vegan arancini to the elegantly assembled beetroot carpaccio with pine nut cream- there's alot to choose from, even if you aren't vegan. The real showstopper? Their commitment to the whole vegetable, from root to tip, sourced daily from local organic growers and with a wine list focused on minimal-intervention, organic wines, and dynamic hyper-seasonal specials, Botanique is not just a restaurant—it's a journey from plant to plate, celebrating the abundance of flavors and textures achievable with high-quality organic ingredients.

<> The Roundhill Pub

Three plates of hearty roast dinners, each featuring Yorkshire puddings, roasted meats, assorted roasted vegetables, and dark gravy. The dishes are artfully arranged on a wooden table, accompanied by glasses of light-colored beverages. — The Roundhill Pub via Facebook

100 Ditchling Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4SG

Known for flipping the script on the iconic British Sunday roast, The Roundhill Pub transforms the hearty tradition into a feast that even the most dedicated meat lovers can't resist. Picture this: vegan Yorkshire puddings, herb potatoes, root mash, and a veggie extravaganza that earned them the city's fourth Best Sunday Roast in the BRAVO restaurant awards. And fear not if Sundays are booked; their regular menu is a gastronomic adventure featuring everything from burgers to pasta and an aubergine "fillet" that's a showstopper.

Happy Maki

23 Sydney St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EN

Forget fish; at Happy Maki, they're making waves in the ocean of plant-based delights. With a menu that's gluten-free, fish-free, and mostly raw, this sushi spot is not just a culinary haven but a non-profit with a heart as big as its sushi rolls. Picture sushi the size of a burrito—because why settle for small portions when you can have it all? From stuffed tofu pockets to popped 'chicken' cauliflower, Happy Maki knows how to roll with flavor. The best part? The prices reflect the actual cost, and you can pay the going rate, 5% more or less, with the surplus going to charities supporting children and the environment.

Terre à Terre

A wooden table is set with a white teapot, creamer, a cup of cappuccino, and a plate of three mini desserts: a chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting and a raspberry, a banana muffin topped with slivered almonds, and a fruit tart topped with a slice of orange. — Terre A Terre via Facebook

71 East St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HQ

Plant-based royalty since 1993, Terre à Terre boasts an innovative and creative approach to Modern British dining, elevating quality ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The elegant interior sets the stage for romantic dinners or upscale plant-based experiences, making it the go-to spot for celebrations and date nights alike. While not fully vegan, the abundance and deliciousness of their vegan options make it a haven for plant-based connoisseurs.

No Catch

A plate of seasoned fried shrimp is served on a bed of fresh greens, accompanied by a lemon wedge and a small container of creamy dipping sauce. The background is a blue surface with a branded paper liner displaying Catch and fish icons. — nocatch.co

127a Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2FA

Dive into the deep blue delights of The No Catch Co, Brighton's only vegan fish and chips shop that's on a mission to keep fish in the oceans and 'fish' on the plate! Opening its doors in October 2021, this ethical eatery spearheaded by vegan activist Earthling Ed is making waves with a creative menu that authentically mirrors the traditional British fish and chip experience. From the convincing 'tofish' substitute to vegan cod, smoked haddock, and even tempura prawnz, No Catch is a seafront sensation satisfying seaside cravings without causing harm to the ocean.

Food For Friends

A gourmet dish is artfully presented on a white plate, featuring a variety of green leaves, a green sauce, and small pieces of what appears to be fish or meat. A napkin is placed to the right, and the words Food for Friends are written at the bottom of the image. — www.foodforfriends.com

17-18 Prince Albert St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HF

Since 1981, this vegetarian haven has been serving up a mesmerizing array of dishes that redefine plant-based dining. Picture sweet summer peas sautéed in confit garlic, or smokey charred cabbage adorned with house-made cashew cheese—it's a veggie-packed spectacle that even carnivores can't resist. While not entirely vegan, Food For Friends is a plant-based paradise with an ethos of "tasty, affordable, honest cooking" using the freshest produce and supporting local suppliers.

Beelzebab

A person holds a loaded hot dog topped with mustard, mayonnaise, and shredded purple cabbage, all wrapped in a brown paper. The background shows condiments and jars. The person is wearing an orange apron and several wristbands. — Beelzebab via Facebook

The Hope & Ruin, 11-12 Queens Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3WA

Tucked away inside The Hope and Ruin Pub, Beelzebab is Brighton's answer to vegan junk food, serving up sinful delights that redefine plant-based indulgence. Forget the typical burger reinventions; Beelzebab has a wild assortment of loaded French fries, hot dogs, and even vegan doner that will leave your taste buds happy. Tuck into their Chippy Tea—a creative basket of fries crowned with peanut satay and raspberry chili jam. And if you're feeling daring, grab a Dirty Kraut, a tofu dog with seitan doner, chili sauce, sauerkraut, crispy onion, mustard, ketchup, and pickles—an explosion of flavors that will satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

Bonsai Plant Kitchen

A top-down view of a wooden table with three dishes: a bowl of noodles with a wooden spoon on the left, a sesame seed bun burger on a plate at the top, and two skewers with seasoned meat on a plate on the right. — Bonsai Plant Kitchen via Facebook

44-45 Baker St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4JN

Led by the dynamic duo Amy Bennett and Dom Sheriff, who honed their culinary skills at Food for Friends, this edgy and cool vegan haven exudes strong New York vibes. The South-East Asian-inspired menu, exclusively plant-based and nut-free, offers flavor-packed creations best enjoyed as sharing plates—though be warned, they may test even the strongest relationships with their tastiness. The signature tempura cauliflower, delicately battered and complemented by Korean hot sauce and toasted sesame seeds, is a standout. Bonsai's commitment to using Japanese coals adds a unique flavor to their dishes, especially on the Bincho Grill section of the menu. The cocktails, crafted in-house, are a celebration of peak-preserved ingredients.

Wai Kika Moo Kau

A gray oval plate features a dish of grilled vegetables and greens, garnished with chopped herbs and nuts. On the side, there's a small portion of pickled red onions and radishes. The plate is set on a light wooden surface with part of a colorful container visible on the side. — Wai Kika Moo Kau via Facebook

1A Kensington Gardens, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AL

From killer vegan English breakfasts to a delightful selection of cakes and treats, this spot hits all the right notes. The sun trap terrace is perfect for early-morning indulgences, perhaps with a stack of vegan pancakes topped with whipped vegan cream, bananas, raspberry sauce, and cinnamon sugar. The cafe's commitment to locally sourced produce ensures fresh, made-to-order dishes with a Moo Kau twist. Open seven days a week for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and fully licensed to serve locally brewed beer on tap, organic wines, and Sussex cider, Wai Kika Moo Kau is a timeless gem where homemade flavors and a relaxed atmosphere reign supreme.

Purezza

A table is filled with various wood-fired pizzas topped with colorful ingredients, along with salads, small dishes of vegetables, and bowls of olive oil. The setting is decorated with fresh greenery, a selection of sauces, and a rustic wooden finish. — Purezza via Facebook

12 St James's St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RE

Established in 2015 as the UK's pioneer of 100% plant-based pizza, Purezza has become a local icon and a global vegan haven, spreading its influence with additional restaurants in Hove, London, Manchester, and Bristol. The original St James’ Street location stands as a testament to the vegan revolution, contributing to Brighton's status as the most vegan-friendly city globally. Their own spin on vegan Mozzarella, featured on the Sussex Shortlist, is a testament to their commitment to innovation. With accolades like winning the Best Pizza award at the National Pizza Awards, Purezza continues to redefine plant-based dining, offering not just a meal but an experience where purity meets pizza perfection.