Brighton's culinary excellence celebrated with new Dome Awards

Brighton's thriving independent restaurant scene has a new way to celebrate excellence. Brighton's Best Restaurants has launched its inaugural annual Dome Awards, creating what many are calling Brighton's answer to the Michelin Star system.

A homage to Brighton's landmark

The awards are cleverly named after the distinctive domes of Brighton Pavilion, reflecting the city's rich architectural heritage. Restaurants can receive recognition in four categories: three domes, two domes, one dome, or a special 'Local Favourite' designation.

What the ratings mean

Three domes are awarded to restaurants demonstrating 'the best cooking in the city.' Two domes recognise 'a high level of attention to detail in all areas: food, service and ambience' delivering a top-quality experience. One dome celebrates 'reliable, good value, delicious food.' The Local Favourite award honours restaurants that have captured the hearts of the community.

How winners were selected

The awards are based on nominations from followers of Brighton's Best Restaurants and readers of its twice-monthly Serving Up newsletter. A panel of culinary experts, led by Brighton's Best Restaurants founder Andy Lynes, reviews these nominations and dines at the restaurants before making their decisions.

The winners

Four restaurants earned the prestigious three-dome award in 2026: Dilsk, Etch by Steven Edwards, Furna and Maré by Rafael Cagali.

Two-dome winners include Amari, Burnt Orange, The Chilli Pickle, The Flint House, The Little Fish Market, The Set and The Coal Shed.

One-dome restaurants are Baby Bao at the Pond, Bincho Yakitori, Brusco, Fourth and Church, Ginger Pig, Kindling Kitgum, Namo Brighton, No No Please, Palmito, Plateau, Riddle & Finns, Salt Room, Spice Circuit Kitchen, Stem, The Crazy Goose, Vine House Voya and Wild Flor.

Local Favourites are Bonsai Plant Kitchen, Embers, English's, Halisco, Petit Pois, Reading Room, Terre à Terre and Tutto.

Celebrating the milestone

Brighton's Best Restaurants is marking its tenth anniversary with a visual refresh, unveiling a new logo and colour scheme created by the Bread and Butter marketing company. The redesign underscores the organisation's commitment to being the definitive guide to the independent restaurant scene in Brighton and Hove.

A new map-based searchable restaurant guide launched on 24 September, making it easier for diners to find restaurants for any occasion.

OctoberBest festival

As part of the celebrations, OctoberBest will run from 10–25 October, featuring 38 participating award-winning and guest restaurants with special menus priced between £15 and £35, offering excellent value for those wanting to experience Brighton's best.

Source: Brighton's answer to the Michelin Star is launched: top restaurants full list