Brighton’s Ultimate Vegan Food Guide: From Sushi to Fish and Chips

This popular seaside city is like London’s bohemian cousin. Less than an hour’s train ride from the capital, Brighton is a creative hub, full of meandering, narrow lanes lined with independent vintage clothing shops, record stores, and vegan-friendly eateries. In fact, according to HappyCow, Brighton is home to nearly 240 vegan-friendly restaurants, almost 30 of which are completely meat-free, and 12 of which are entirely vegan.

According to Zack Stubbs, the new owner of one of the city’s most popular vegan spots, Bonsai Plant Kitchen, Brighton’s focus on independent businesses is exactly what has allowed its impressive plant-based dining scene to flourish.

“Independent venues are allowed to be much more creative and have more freedom to play around and try new things,” he said. “With chain restaurants, there are many more moving parts, systems, and standards, which can make it harder to experiment. As independents, I think we can really push vegan food forward and show people what’s possible, often in ways they never expected.”

As Stubbs, a lifelong vegetarian and keen patron of the city’s dining scene, can attest, Brighton doesn’t just have quantity in its vegan restaurants, but quality, too. In fact, what sets its vegan scene apart is the sheer variety. Whatever you’re craving—comfort food, health-focused bowls, decadent desserts—you’ll find it in one of the city’s many plant-based or vegan-friendly restaurants.

Heading there soon? Here are a few must-visit spots to add to your list.

Ellen Richardson / Bonsai Plant Kitchen.

1 Bonsai Plant Kitchen

This vibrant vegan restaurant specializes in bold, flavorful Southeast Asian cuisine. Kick things off with the Aromatic Pork Larb Mince and then dive into the Chicken Yakitori Skewers. Honestly, good luck choosing—everything on the menu looks and sounds absolutely mouthwatering. “I’ve watched Bonsai grow over the years and become such an incredible restaurant,” says Stubbs, who has pledged to keep the restaurant’s ethos just as it is. “It’s already built on such incredible foundations that there really is no need to make big changes. I think the core values of staying plant-based and nut-free are important and will never change as long as Bonsai is under my control.”

2 The No Catch Co.

When at the British seaside, fish and chips are a must. But good news: you don’t need to eat actual fish to enjoy this tradition. At The No Catch Co., you can feast on mouthwatering Vegan Cod & Chips, Jumbo Battered Vegan Saveloy, and Vegan Calamari, all made with 100 percent plant-based ingredients.

3 Purezza

When you’re in the mood for pizza (and let’s be honest, it’s a “when,” not an “if”), head to Purezza. Choose from a range of creative sourdough pizzas topped with the restaurant’s own signature mozzarella and Italian tomatoes. Toppings include Pepperoni & Agave, Steak & Chimichurri, and Five Cheese, as well as classics like veggie and margherita.

4 Happy Maki

If sushi is calling your name, head straight to Happy Maki. This all-vegan spot serves up an impressive array of sushi burritos packed with flavorful fillings like hoisin duck and crispy chicken. You can also build your own bowl or go for a Signature Poke Bowl. And be sure to try the delicious sides—Popcorn Cauli and Wakame Salad are not to be missed.

5 Beelzebab

You’ll find Beelzebab’s tasty vegan comfort food inside The Hope and Ruin pub, just a short walk from Brighton’s main station. Grab a pint, maybe enjoy some live local music, and tuck into everything from battered gherkins and kebabs to vegan wings and loaded hot dogs. What better way to spend an afternoon?

6 Oowee Vegan

Oowee Vegan is another vegan comfort food spot you need on your radar. It’s quick, it’s satisfying, and it’s always delicious. Choose from options like plant-based beef burgers, fried chicken, loaded mac and cheese, and dirty fries. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it.