Best Local Restaurant

Med

East Sussex, Brighton - Global - Restaurant - ££

Big-hitting local eatery famed for its thrilling, globally inspired food

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Good

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Very Good

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Good

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Good

Hold on to your palate, it's in for quite a ride. An eclectic menu of small plates might not sound like the most original idea for a modern casual restaurant (especially one in Brighton, where the formula has spread like wildfire) but no one does it quite like Med. Surprising but wholly successful combinations such as taramasalata served with chunky prawn toast or grilled mackerel with green strawberries are as varied as the motley collection of beautiful vintage crockery they’re served on. However, the devil is in the detail, with nearly every dish reflecting that little bit of extra thought and effort from the kitchen that lifts the food to delicious heights. You don’t just get any old mayo with your crispy potatoes, it's a spicy sambal aïoli. There’s larb too, but instead of the classic Thai salad it’s served as a punchy and fresh-tasting tartare of beef topped with cashews – and you won’t forget the maple sriracha-glazed pig’s trotter...

Hold on to your palate, it's in for quite a ride. An eclectic menu of small plates might not sound like the most original idea for a modern casual restaurant (especially one in Brighton, where the formula has spread like wildfire) but no one does it quite like Med. Surprising but wholly successful combinations such as taramasalata served with chunky prawn toast or grilled mackerel with green strawberries are as varied as the motley collection of beautiful vintage crockery they’re served on.

However, the devil is in the detail, with nearly every dish reflecting that little bit of extra thought and effort from the kitchen that lifts the food to delicious heights. You don’t just get any old mayo with your crispy potatoes, it's a spicy sambal aïoli. There’s larb too, but instead of the classic Thai salad it’s served as a punchy and fresh-tasting tartare of beef topped with cashews – and you won’t forget the maple sriracha-glazed pig’s trotters in a hurry. The home-baked focaccia is a must-order – and some of the best bread in the city.

Reporters also rave about the ‘friendly, knowledgeable staff’ and the ‘really great atmosphere’ in the contemporary dining room with its blue/grey banquettes, dark wood tables and eye-catching botanical wall feature. Navigating the well-chosen wine list is a breeze, with ‘naturals’ listed separately from the more traditionally produced bottles; the short list of cocktails and local beers is worth exploring too.

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E Jarrad

4 May 2023

The service is so personal, the knowledge they have on wine is incredible, and the food is clearly made with such passion and knowledge of flavours. I could never fault it.

VENUE DETAILS

2-3 Little East Street
Brighton
East Sussex
BN1 1HTGB

01273 076548

Make a reservation

OTHER INFORMATION

Counter seating, Dog friendly

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