When I think of Eastbourne, the first image that often comes to mind is the sweeping curve of its pebble beach, the Victorian pier stretching proudly into the sea, and the chalk cliffs of Beachy Head glowing under the evening sun. Yet, the longer I’ve spent here, the more I’ve come to realize that Eastbourne is not only about coastal scenery—it’s also a town that quietly hides a surprisingly diverse and delicious food culture.
Eating in Eastbourne isn’t just about filling your stomach. It’s about experiencing the character of the town through its flavors. From humble seaside fish-and-chip shops to refined fine-dining restaurants, I’ve spent countless hours wandering its streets, ducking into cafés, and lingering in candle-lit dining rooms. Each meal has added another layer to my impression of this seaside town.
Below, I’ll take you through my personal food journey across 10+ restaurants and eateries in Eastbourne, weaving in moments that have stuck with me—the laughter over shared tapas, the comforting warmth of a bowl of ramen on a rainy day, the crunch of perfectly fried fish eaten with the sea breeze in my hair. I’ll also share practical tips: how to book, where to look for deals, and which platforms (like OpenTable, Booking.com, Expedia, or even Airbnb Experiences) have helped me snag the best options.
1. The Green Almond Vegetarian Bistro – A Hidden Gem for Plant-Based Indulgence
Location: 14 Terminus Road, Eastbourne BN21 3LP
The first time I pushed open the unassuming door of The Green Almond, I was met with an intimate, almost homely atmosphere. The dining room is small—just a handful of tables—but it feels like you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home rather than a restaurant. Soft lighting, quiet chatter, and the faint aroma of herbs wafting from the kitchen created a calmness I wasn’t expecting.
The bistro offers a daily changing vegetarian and vegan menu. I remember a particularly exquisite spinach and ricotta roulade served with roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Every bite felt fresh, wholesome, and layered with flavor, completely destroying the myth that vegetarian food is somehow “less satisfying.”
Must-try dish: Their homemade desserts, especially the vegan chocolate torte, are heavenly. I once went back a second day in a row just to order it again.
Booking tips: Because it’s tiny, reservations are a must. I usually book through OpenTable, which makes it easy to snag a slot, but calling directly sometimes works better if you’re after last-minute availability.
Money-saving idea: Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner, and you still get the same quality.
2. The Beach Kitchen – Fish and Chips with a Sea Breeze
Location: 9 Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3EH
No seaside trip feels complete without fish and chips, and I’ve tried more than a few along the Eastbourne seafront. The Beach Kitchen is where I keep coming back. Set right on the Grand Parade, its windows face the ocean, and I often grab a takeaway portion to eat sitting on the promenade wall, with seagulls eyeing my cod hungrily.
Their batter is light yet crisp, the fish flaky and fresh. Chips are thick-cut and piping hot. What sets them apart, though, is the attention to detail—the tartar sauce tastes homemade, and the mushy peas are seasoned just right.
Must-try dish: Cod and chips, of course. But if you’re in the mood for variety, their calamari is excellent.
Booking tips: This is more of a casual drop-in spot, but if you’re traveling in peak season, expect queues. I’ve learned to order ahead by phone, so I can just pick up and go.
Money-saving idea: Portion sizes are generous; one large portion can easily feed two if you’re not ravenous.
3. The Mirabelle Restaurant at The Grand Hotel – Refined Coastal Dining
Location: The Grand Hotel, King Edward’s Parade, Eastbourne BN21 4EQ
Stepping into The Grand Hotel feels like stepping back into Victorian elegance, and dining at the Mirabelle Restaurant inside is always a treat. The first time I visited, I wore my best jacket, partly to match the sense of occasion the setting demands.
The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. I had a Dover sole fillet delicately pan-fried, paired with a light lemon butter sauce and fresh vegetables. The flavors were subtle yet powerful in their simplicity.
Must-try dish: Their afternoon tea is an event in itself—tiered trays of scones, sandwiches, and delicate pastries served with a view of the sea.
Booking tips: Book well in advance on OpenTable or via the hotel’s website. For overnight stays with dining, I’ve found excellent packages on Booking.com that included dinner credit.
Money-saving idea: Lunch deals during weekdays are often cheaper while maintaining the same high quality.
4. Nelson Coffee Co. – Specialty Coffee and Brunch Heaven
Location: 4 Terminus Road, Eastbourne BN21 3LP
I stumbled into Nelson Coffee Co. on a cold, drizzly morning, and the smell of freshly ground beans immediately lifted my spirits. Inside, it’s hip yet cozy, with industrial lighting and a warm buzz of conversation.
I ordered their famous smashed avocado on sourdough, topped with feta and chili flakes, paired with a flat white that was perfectly smooth. Sitting by the window, watching rain streak the glass, I felt a kind of contentment only a good café can provide.
Must-try dish: Their buttermilk pancakes are legendary—fluffy, towering, and served with maple syrup.
Booking tips: They don’t always take reservations, so I’ve learned to come early on weekends to avoid long waits.
Money-saving idea: Their loyalty cards (buy nine coffees, get one free) are worth grabbing if you’re staying in Eastbourne longer.
5. La Locanda del Duca – Authentic Italian in the Heart of Town
Location: 6 Cornfield Terrace, Eastbourne BN21 4NN
Walking into La Locanda del Duca feels like stepping into a family-run trattoria in Tuscany. Warm lighting, rustic décor, and the aroma of garlic and tomatoes instantly whet your appetite.
I once ordered their seafood linguine, and it came piled with mussels, clams, and prawns, cooked perfectly al dente with a garlicky tomato sauce. I remember closing my eyes after the first bite—it was that good.
Must-try dish: Their tiramisu, prepared traditionally, is the perfect ending.
Booking tips: This is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Reservations through OpenTable are simple, but I’ve also spotted special dining offers on Tastecard, which sometimes gives 2-for-1 deals.
Money-saving idea: Opt for their set lunch menus—it’s incredible value for authentic Italian cuisine.
6. Bangkok Brasserie – A Taste of Thailand
Location: 3-5 Bolton Road, Eastbourne BN21 3JU
Eastbourne surprised me with its variety of international cuisines, and Bangkok Brasserie has become my go-to for Thai food. The restaurant is lively, with golden décor and the comforting smell of lemongrass and chili in the air.
Their green curry is silky and fragrant, perfectly balanced between coconut sweetness and chili heat. I once shared a mixed starter platter here with friends, and we ended up fighting over the last satay skewer.
Must-try dish: Green curry with jasmine rice, or their pad Thai if you prefer something milder.
Booking tips: They accept reservations via their website, but I’ve often found tables on OpenTable too.
Money-saving idea: Go with a group and order several dishes to share—it’s cheaper and gives you more variety.
7. Yoku Sushi – Fresh and Elegant Japanese Dining
Location: 18 Cornfield Road, Eastbourne BN21 4QE
Whenever I crave Japanese food, Yoku Sushi never disappoints. The dining room is sleek and minimalistic, and the chefs work quickly behind the counter, slicing sashimi with practiced precision.
I still remember one rainy evening when I ducked in, ordered a hot miso soup to warm up, and then indulged in a platter of salmon nigiri and dragon rolls. The freshness of the fish was outstanding—clean, buttery, and flavorful.
Must-try dish: Their bento boxes, especially the teriyaki salmon set, are both satisfying and good value.
Booking tips: Book ahead if you’re going on a Friday or Saturday night. Sometimes I use Deliveroo for takeout when I want sushi by the sea.
Money-saving idea: Lunch specials are significantly cheaper than dinner, with almost identical portions.
8. Cru Eastbourne – Contemporary Fine Dining with Flair
Location: 12 Hyde Gardens, Eastbourne BN21 4PN
Dining at Cru feels like an occasion. It’s sleek, modern, and stylish, with a focus on wine pairing and carefully curated dishes. I once celebrated a birthday here, and the staff went out of their way to make the evening special.
I had the lamb rump served with roasted root vegetables and a rich jus, paired with a bold red wine recommended by the sommelier. Each course felt like a small work of art.
Must-try dish: Their tasting menus are the highlight—each plate beautifully presented, each flavor carefully balanced.
Booking tips: Book well in advance on OpenTable; tasting menu slots fill quickly.
Money-saving idea: If you want the fine-dining experience at a lower cost, go for the early-evening set menu.
9. The Marine – Classic British Pub Fare with a Sea View
Location: 61 Seaside Road, Eastbourne BN22 7NE
There’s something comforting about a pub meal, and The Marine hits all the right notes. Overlooking the sea, it’s a place I often go for Sunday roasts or a casual pint with hearty food.
I once had their roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, and it reminded me of Sunday dinners from my childhood—comforting, filling, and full of flavor.
Must-try dish: Roast dinners, or the steak and ale pie if you want something deeply traditional.
Booking tips: Pub tables can fill quickly on Sundays. I’ve had success reserving via their Facebook page or calling ahead.
Money-saving idea: Watch for “meal and drink” deals during weekdays.
10. Fusciardi’s Ice Cream Parlour – A Sweet Tradition
Location: 30 Marine Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7AY
No food journey in Eastbourne is complete without mentioning Fusciardi’s, a family-run ice cream parlour that’s been part of the town since 1967. Walking in feels nostalgic—bright counters, cheerful staff, and row upon row of colorful gelato.
Their pistachio ice cream is my all-time favorite: creamy, nutty, and not overly sweet. I’ve also tried their sundaes piled high with fruit, cream, and wafers—perfect for summer afternoons.
Must-try dish: Pistachio gelato or the classic banana split.
Booking tips: No reservations needed—just stroll in. But be prepared for lines on hot days.
Money-saving idea: Buy takeaway cones rather than sundaes if you’re looking to save but still want the taste.
Booking Platforms I Rely On
Traveling to Eastbourne, I’ve often paired my food adventures with smart planning. For flights, I usually check Skyscanner or Expedia to grab the best prices. For accommodation, Booking.com has consistently given me flexible deals, while Airbnb works if I’m traveling with friends and want a kitchen to try local produce.
For restaurant reservations, OpenTable is my go-to. It lets me browse availability, check menus, and even catch promotional offers. Sometimes I’ve also used Tastecard or Groupon for discounted dining experiences around Eastbourne.
These platforms not only save me money but also give me peace of mind knowing I have the essentials covered—leaving me free to focus on what matters most: enjoying the food.
