No. 32

Although it is tucked away down one of Brighton’s side streets, you can’t miss the smart, slate-coloured frontage of No. 32 – or the number in giant illuminated figures above the doorway. Attractive wooden furniture is arranged in the pedestrian street for outdoor drinking and dining, and the sober yet striking exterior is matched by an elegant, industrial-chic interior with comfy upholstered benches and glittering contemporary chandeliers.

The decor sets the tone for this versatile venue, which bills itself as a restaurant, bar and lounge club, offering everything from a laid-back afternoon coffee to late-night dancing at the weekend. Head chef Mark Wadsworth and his team create elegantly presented food that is as diverse as the venue itself. Brunch is served from 11.30am to 2pm and is not just your average fry-up; dishes include the likes of eggs Benedict, avocado and feta on sourdough, and French toast with strawberries and salted caramel.

The casual lunch menu features a variety of burgers, bar snacks, appetising salads and classic desserts such as sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownie sundae. A set menu offers two courses for £18.50 and three for £23.50. In the evening the fish and grill menu is more formal, but again is available à la carte or as set menus at £29.50 for two courses or £35 for three. Here the chefs really show off their creative skills with inventive starters such as steak tartare with whisky mayo, sourdough toast and confit egg yolk. Main courses are equally appealing, with dishes such as miso honey chicken with Asian slaw and fries or 7oz steak with garlic butter. The meat is sourced from local butchers then aged in-house for extra richness of flavour.

No. 32 shows its credentials as a party venue when you browse the list of over 40 cocktails. You can enjoy two for £10 all day on Sunday – and there’s also a popular traditional roast from noon to 6pm. The venue has great deals on weekdays too, so sign up online for updates about the latest offers and events. Whether you are planning a party, a wedding reception, a corporate function or just a laid-back meal with family or friends, No. 32 is sure to please.