The Better Half

It’s always heart-warming to find a real success story of a neighbourhood local that’s been given a fantastic new lease of life. The Better Half is the result of the vision and hard work of owner Simon Stern, who has transformed his establishment into a must-visit Brighton and Hove dining destination.

Quirky versions of famous paintings adorn the sage green walls – and on occasion the ceiling – while Chesterfield-style upholstery on benches nods to traditional pub decor. The innovative interior sets the scene for the stand-out food. The burgers are given such attention to detail that prime rib of beef is minced on-site and the fantastic buns are baked in-house; even the ketchup is homemade. Meanwhile the wild mushroom, spinach and Madeira crème gnocchi is a delicious dish that you would expect to find in a restaurant with awards to its name, and indeed The Better Half earned a place in Estrella Damm’s Top 50 Gastropubs 2017. The standard continued through to dessert; the poached pear and rhubarb crumble served with vanilla custard, and deconstructed vanilla cheesecake with berry compote, sable crumb, strawberry ice cream and crispy basil taste every bit as good as they sound. With Harveys, Timothy Taylor and Bedlam Brewery beer on tap, and a great selection of wine, world lagers and craft bottled beer, The Better Half covers all the bases, and then some.