The Better Half

Since being taken over by Simon Stern, this neighbourhood local has been transformed into a must-visit dining destination. The motto is ‘a pebble’s throw from Hove seafront; a million miles from ordinary’ and the team certainly delivers on this. 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 menu boasts delicious and innovative takes on pub classics. Expect the likes of sweet potato and lentil pie and slow-roasted beef cheeks with creamy mash in a rich red wine jus. The team has also made a name for their outstanding Christmas menu, The Ho Ho Ho Half, which runs throughout December.

The diverse menu boasts the sort of quality you’d expect from an award-winning pub that specialises in good food. The standard continues through to dessert; the indulgent sticky toffee pudding and the rich chocolate brownie with salted caramel ice cream are just as irresistible as they sound. With an extensive hand-picked wine list, weekly changing guest ales, world lagers and craft bottled beer, there’s a tipple to tempt all tastebuds. There’s always something happening at this lively venue, whether it’s the popular charity pub quiz, great music nights, or the unmissable two-for-one Wednesday burger special.