The best restaurants in Rottingdean

Bistro Gourmand serves up a slice of joie de vivre straight from Paris. Run by friendly chef-owner Franck Thomeret, this snug French restaurant in Rottingdean features red-and-white chequered tablecloths and a changing blackboard menu of home-cooked French food with Provencal inspiration. Signature dishes at Bistro Gourmand include coq au vin, bouillabaisse, and lamb cassoulet, accompanied by fine French wines by the glass or bottle.

The Duck Inn is a historic gastropub in Rottingdean frequented by both locals and visitors. The welcoming atmosphere and appealingly pared-down interior are well-suited to enjoying a refreshing pint or some nice pub grub. The seasonal menu changes on a weekly basis – you can expect a varied assortment of dishes like Thai yellow curry, sirloin steak, or the house double cheeseburger. The Duck Inn also hosts events like pub quizzes or live jazz nights.

The restaurant at The White Horses hotel on the Rottingdean seafront boasts magnificent views of the sea from its sun-soaked terrace, making it an ideal spot for a languorous summer lunch. They serve fresh seafood delicacies like mixed seafood linguine or Scottish mussels, alongside traditional dishes like fish and chips or fish pie. Breakfast is available here as well, and roast dinners are served on Sundays.

Molly's at the Beach is a family-run independent café situated on Undercliff Walk, right by the sea, making it a highly convenient place to stop off for a drink or some other refreshment. They serve breakfast and lunch here, offering light homemade options like soups, sandwiches, cakes, and more. You can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee or treat yourself to some ice cream here. 

If you're in need of a satisfying fix of authentic Thai food in Rottingdean, head to Ros Thai. This small, colourful High Street restaurant welcomes patrons with a vibrant interior and crockery, serving an array of traditional Thai delicacies. From classics like pad Thai or tom yum to regional specialities, you're sure to find your favourites here. Drinks are available too, and you can also order takeaway.

Named after a historic local activity of dubious moral standing, Smugglers Fish & Chips in Rottingdean serves up the British seaside staple. You can dine in or get your fish and chips to go if you'd prefer to enjoy them seated on the nearby beach. Expect all the chippy classics, as well as fresh fish and a selection of other street-food favourites like burgers or mozzarella sticks.

Located in the heart of Rottingdean, right by the village green, The Plough Inn is a traditional British pub with around 200 years of history in its flint walls. The wood-clad interior offers a timeless setting for sinking a pint, but you can also chill out in the neat little beer garden. There are lots of drinks to choose from, including local ales, while the kitchen serves up proper pub grub.