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Top 10 places for Al Fresco dining in Brighton

The snow and rain shouldn’t stop you from planning your summer trips down to the gorgeous seaside town of Brighton so here’s some must visit places to brighten this miserable winter.

Fancy a bite to eat outdoors? Got just the places for you to explore.

The Salt Room:

Voted one of the top 10 restaurants in Brighton The Salt Room has an outdoor dining area that seats up to 60 people overlooking the west pier. The seaside view paired with the seafood served it is a memorable place. Salt Room maintains the freshest food by sourcing local produce from the land and sea. Their al fresco dining in summer books up fast so booking ahead of time is suggested if your wish to visit here.

Hotel Du Vin:

The Bistro restaurant at Hotel Du Vin in Brighton has a gorgeous courtyard offering an al fresco dining experience under vine-draped pergola. The bistro offers a relaxed atmosphere open to anyone not only hotel guests for dinner.  They offer a dining experience for 2 courses from £19.95 and a 3-course meal for £24. However, if you fancy just popping for a drink they have an amazing selection of wines.  It makes for the perfect hotel to stay at whilst you visit Brighton or even if your local and fancy a staycation over summer it offers everything.

The Shelter Hall:

One of Shelter Hall’s best features is its al fresco dining area. Overlooking the shimmering waters of the sea, this outdoor space is the ideal setting for everything from a casual lunch to a celebratory evening meal. With seating arranged to see the views of the sea from any spot in the restaurant. While taking in the views customers can enjoy the world-class cuisine it really offers everything from Italian, Slovakian, burger and to finish off even a sweet treat. The shelter hall has everything covered even if you were looking to hire for a private event it is the perfect spot.

Rockwater:

Located on hove seafront, Rockwater is perfect for al fresco dining all year round the sophisticated and stylish restaurant paired with the stunning costal views and divine food. In the summer the restaurant is opened so that guests can enjoy the sunshine with a crisp sea breeze, but this is accessible all year in the winter the area becomes enclosed with heaters, fire pits and blankets to create the perfect place to sit and enjoy the seaside. It truly is a showstopping restaurant that offers a unique experience to dine in the warmth whilst water the waves roll in or even catching a sunset with a light aperitif.

The Dorset:

Tucked away in the hustle and bustle of the north lane it is the perfect place for people watching whilst you enjoy your dining experience. The Dorset is a welcoming and hearty pub offering a proper English experience. Its al fresco dining area is the perfect spot to take in the vibrant environment of Brighton. With the outdoor seating being situated in the hustle and bustle of the street whether its summer or a bright chilly eve it is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or even enjoy a drink under the clear sky. The north lane always has a very lively vibe with lots of character.

The Ivy:

The Ivys menus cater to every meal from classical full English breakfast, afternoon teas or fancy indulging in a hearty dinner try their slow cooked lamb. The outdoor al fresco dining experience adds to the class and creativity of The Ivy and all they have to offer. The vibrant atmosphere of the terrace with plush seating surrounded by the greenery it really is a surreal dining experience. The terrace being tucked away from the noise of the lanes offers the perfect dining experience under the heaters and under the stars for a romantic meal.

The Copper Clam:

The Copper Clam has seating outside that is designed to suit all seasons. The parasols in summer make for a shaded warm summer seating area. However, in winter the outdoor heaters make it a cozy seating area for the winter season. The family run business offers a warm welcoming of a range of seafood right in amongst the historical arches of Brighton Beach. The restaurant prides itself on fresh seafood off the boat that day made into hearty family recipes to welcome in locals and visitors of Brighton. Their most popular dish being the seafood platter.

Lucky Beach:                                                            

Lucky beach located between the two piers has seating that falls onto the beach offering the perfect spot to watch the waves and the vibrant seafront from a front view spot. Lucky Beach is a very versatile spot with it offering anything from a quick bite to a full dining experience. The al fresco dining experience attracts tourists and locals as it captures the essence of Brighton through the stunning views whilst you dine. It has become a gem of the seaside catering for everyone’s needs. A selling point of visiting Luck Beach is that they pride themselves on sourcing ingredients from local farmers and fishermen to ensure there is minimal environmental impact and that they are giving back to their community.

Coppa Club:

Coppa club is located in the Lanes at 12-16 Brighton Square with versatile seating plan, but its true selling point is the alfresco igloos on offer. The Coppa Club offers a new stylish way of al fresco dining, offering a private and peaceful dinner or lunch in their exclusive domes. The heated igloos are made for groups of 4-6 and are a must visit so make sure to book soon as they are popular. The Coppa Club has a European cuisine offering pizza, grills, breakfast and brunch. Staff have been praised on their welcoming and attentive service.  

These places should be must visits in summer or winter for that truly all year round feeling of being outdoors whilst dining.

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Freya Louise Hawkins

Currently a University of Brighton student studying Journalism. Freya is joining the team for a two-week work experience to demonstrate her skills and desires in writing in a journalistic style about her passions outside of uni. Alongside a love for the city, Freya also loves attending the theatre, concerts, and food and is excited to contribute as much as possible to the We Love Brighton page. From the sea to the city, there are so many opportunities in Brighton and so much to love!