Kerry H.

Review of Las Iguanas

17 May 08, 17:39

Buzzin'

I do like a bit of Las Iguanas...they seem to do quite a mixture on the menu ranging from tapas to mexican and the like. Yum.

It's a very lively, fun place full of atmosphere and noise. The food is really excellent and the staff keep you well fed and watered as they rush about from table to table. It's perhaps not the ideal spot for an intimate dinner for two...unless you go mid-week when it's not quite so mental.

This is the perfect place however for big work groups...birthdays...hens...or just because you and a load of mates what a good night out. Try it amigos...you won't be disappointed.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Masquerade

17 May 08, 17:11

Fancy that!

Apart from my miserable mate Dan G I don't know anyone who doesn't love a good fancy dress party. Don't stress yourself out trying to come up with that perfect costume all by yourself...go visit Masquerade on the main A23 as you head out of Brighton. They're just north of Preston Circus...parking can be a bit of a pain but worth the effort.

They stock just about every kind of costume you could possibly dream of and have all the required accessories and shoes to finish the whole look off perfectly. Granted it can set you back a few quid but if you want to make a great entrance then this is the place to go.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Magpie Recycling Co-Operative

17 May 08, 16:52

Environmental Angels

Magpie are the lovely people that come and collect all our copy paper, newspaper and cardboard from work on a fortnightly basis. They're reliable and efficient and will try and recycle anything they can get their hands on.

The guys that come to collect our stuff are chirpy and helpful. I've seen their truck out and about in Brighton many times so they're clearly very popular with local businesses. If your business hasn't yet taken the step to make the world a better place...who ya gonna call? No not Ghostbusters you plum...MAGPIE!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Royal Pavilion

17 May 08, 16:18

It's not the Taj Mahal...

...but you could be forgiven for thinking you've arrived in India by mistake as you spot this incredible building on your way into Brighton down the A23. Built under the watchful eye of the naughty Prince Regent the Royal Pavilion is one of Brighton's greatest landmarks and museums.

Although Indian in exterior appearance...many of the rooms inside are Chinese in style and decor. Quite odd! That's the whole charm of this place though...it makes no sense at all and is all the more interesting for it. Just beautiful.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Cricketers

17 May 08, 11:09

Proper Brighton Pub

The Cricketers is one of those places that everyone tends to meet up at before a big night in town. Well the slightly older 'I-hate-Yates' crowd anyway. One half of the pub is VERY traditional with heavy red velour seating and walls adorned with...well as much as they could cram on them to be honest. On a Friday and Saturday night it can get uncomfortably busy and hot in there.

The courtyard bit to the right though is really cool...stone floors and big wooden tables. Much more comfortable if you're not the sort that enjoys being jostled about by the bar. Something for everyone then I guess. All good.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Bills Produce Store

17 May 08, 10:53

Yum...

....and indeed yum.

I've only been to Bills the once and am quite disappointed with myself that I haven't made it back there yet! It's bloody brilliant...the freshest of organic produce on sale in the grocery bit and an amazing cafe. I'd heard all about Bills from friends living in Lewes so when they set up in Brighton I was most excited. I wasn't disappointed. It's funky, original, fresh and good fun. For all of the above reasons you'll need to have lots of time on your hands as it gets B.U.S.Y...but just stand back and take it all in...you could be in a faraway place. Love it.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Buddie's Plaice

17 May 08, 10:47

24/7 Greasy Heaven!

What is it about 3am on a Saturday or Sunday morning that makes you suddenly ravenous and lose all sense when it comes to nutrition and your general well-being??!

If you're down on the seafront there's only one place to head to satisfy these irrational cravings...Buddies. You can't beat squashing around a formica table in the small hours with a few mates dissecting the evening and shovelling high-fat foods into your face. The staff are good fun and can more than cope with their drunken customers' antics. They didn't even seem to mind when my mate John fell asleep on the bacon sandwich they'd just lovingly prepared for him. He tells me it was very comfortable.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Lush

17 May 08, 10:34

Feel worthy as you wash

The great thing about Lush is their 'all natural ingredients' policy. You can feel safe in the knowledge that your fizzy bath bomb isn't packed with harmful chemicals that might damage the environment or indeed your precious skin. The colours, textures and smells of their products mean you spend your time in the shop almost buzzing as your senses tend to go a bit mental!

As well as buying something nice for yourself or your mate's birthday...you can feel good about yourself if your purchase supports one of the world wide campaigns they back. This often means the up-for-it staff have to don a silly outfit to raise awareness...but they don't seem to mind at all.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of All Saints

17 May 08, 10:13

I heart All Saints

If you're after something a little different then All Saints will sort you right out. They accommodate male and female shoppers over the two floors in the Brighton store. Depsite the clothing being ultra cool...the staff aren't the sort to sneer at you when you step in the door. They're smiley and chatty and really helpful when you're trying stuff on. They're also dead honest too and will tell you if you don't suit what you've chosen.

I adore the All Saints brand for its kookiness and originality...but I do have to shop there on pay day. It's certainly more expensive than your average high street store...but then they stock well above average fashion so it's worth the extra spends.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Temple Bar

17 May 08, 10:07

Great pub...

...but can get pretty packed.

Temple Bar is near Waitrose on Western Road so it's ideal if you're coming from the Hove end and heading into town for a night out. It's got two floors (pool table upstairs) and has recently been re-decorated.

I prefer the downstairs area...the semi-circle bar sits in the middle of the room and there are cosy little areas either side at the back. That said when they're showing sport it gets really busy and you'll need to get in early to find a seat. The atmosphere's always really good...even when it's crowded with fans on both sides. Definitely worth a visit...especially if you haven't got Sky Sports!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Cobblers Thumb

15 May 08, 08:34

Cosy pub

You can't miss this pub...it's as you head down New England Hill towards Preston Circus...and it's got a GIANT thumb on the front of it!

It's a proper pub...i.e.it probably hasn't been decorated for a while but that's all part of the charm. It's never rammed so you can usually find a seat. It's great for a quick after work drink...or on a Sunday lunchtime. No complaints here.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Prince Albert

14 May 08, 18:39

Never again

This should be a wicked place to go. It's a fantastic music venue in a great location right next to Brighton station. It's like being in someone's house because of all the different rooms and mismatched furniture...and you'll find a nice piece of Banky's handiwork on the wall outside. I won't tell you what it is...wander by and have a look.

However...the last two times I've been to the Prince Albert there have been some very unsavoury sorts in there. My female friend was actually threatened by some guy when she accidentally took his seat. It was really unpleasant and I won't go back. Shame.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Ann Summers

14 May 08, 18:33

I was buying something for a friend...

...honest.

I recently went to find Ann Summers in Brighton thinking it was near the clock tower. Oh no...it's gone!!

Fear not saucy ones...it's bigger and better and further along Western Road towards Hove. They've got a whole lot of naughtiness in there perfect for hen night silliness or for your own entertainment (apparently)

The staff are helpful too and are clearly very used to being asked outrageous questions by the startled customers. All good.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

Review of Eagle

14 May 08, 18:20

Standing room only

I do really like The Eagle...their food is excellent although a little over-priced. The main problem with this pub is that it is just too small and too bloomin' popular. I know that's a good thing but you can never find a seat and if you do you spend half your night getting elbowed in the head as people squeeze past you sloshing their beer down your neck!

I'm well aware that I sound like a miserable old cow but I just wish there was a bit more room in there...I'd go more often.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Picasso's

14 May 08, 18:14

Quick and bargainous!

I'm not even sure if that's actually a word but bear with me! Picasso's is one of a couple of VERY cheap Italians on Ship Street. It's not a place you need to book for...just wander in when you're hungry and they'll squeeze you in even if they have to put you in the kitchen!

The menu deals are excellent value and the food very decent. You'll receive a smiley welcome too. I'd describe it as 'fast food' but in a nice way...

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Pablo's

14 May 08, 18:06

Cheap & very cheerful

If it's something quick, tasty and cheap you're after whether it's a lunchtime shopping break or before a big night out...you really can't go wrong here. Pablo's isn't the kind of place you go to spend a whole evening over a long, luxurious meal but it serves its purpose well.

They have some fantastic meal offers on...set menus and the like. They don't scrimp on portions either...the pizzas are huge and the bowls of pasta fill you right up. The staff are always flat out busy but very welcoming and there's lots of them so you're never left waiting.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Waitrose

14 May 08, 17:59

Treat yourself

So we all know Waitrose is at the top end of the supermarket chain when it comes to quality stuff and high prices...but let's face it they do some gorgeous stuff!

This isn't a huge store but does seem to stock everything you need for your weekly shop...with extra goodies chucked in for good measure.

The only complaint I have with the Brighton branch is the location of the tills...it's always a bit chaotic and you'll never whizz through the checkouts. Never go there if you're in a hurry!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Walkabout Inn

14 May 08, 17:55

Big and sporty

Walkabout in Brighton is pretty much like any other Walkabout you'll find...but without the attitude. It's a huge place with plenty of seating and standing areas and the staff are up for a laugh. Drinks are cheaper than you'll find in some of the city centre bars and they do good pub food too. The toilets can be a bit minging but all in all not a bad place to go especially for sports on the GIANT TV screens.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Flower City

13 May 08, 13:00

Cheap(ish) and cheerful

Flower City is your standard florist type shop. They stock all the usual blooms but lack a little on the exotic front. The staff are lovely and friendly (even if they're freezing their bits off in the winter!) and on hand with good flower advice if you're a bit stuck.

They sell a good range of plants of all sizes too. In fact it suprises me how much they get in that little shop. If it's a bouquet for your nan your after...this'll do the trick nicely.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Alfresco

13 May 08, 12:55

See the sea

Alfresco is the glass restaurant jutting out of the seafront at West Pier. It really is a great spot for a drink in the sunshine on their balcony. The restaurant is spread over two floors...the 'ground' floor is at pebble level so gets very busy on a sunny day.

You can hire the downstairs for parties/wedding receptions etc. The bar is right in the middle and there's plenty of space for a DJ as well as seating. The only downfall here is that the food really isn't all that. Don't get me wrong...it's not hideous it's just a bit bland and uninspiring. I've eaten in better Italian restaurants for sure. Oh and it's expensive too. Fortunately its location kind of makes up for it...but maybe just go for a drink!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of H & M

09 May 08, 08:53

Take a size up

As is the way with H&M you generally don't fit into your normal size at the Brighton branch...which can be quite soul destroying for some! Or maybe I just need to lay off the pies...

Anyway...this is a pretty big branch spread over two floors. I can usually only face going in there mid-week because at the weekends it is chaos. You'll queue for an age to get in the changing rooms or to pay for your stuff if you haven't run out of patience by then. That said it's always great for a bargain...and there's a huge accessories section too.

1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.

Review of Topshop

09 May 08, 08:24

Gutted

I am and always have been a Topshop girl...but this branch is such a let down. I always thought I would never fail to find something I liked in the mighty TS but this just isn't the case in Brighton. Their stock is rubbish...the layout is rubbish...the changing rooms are a bit minging...and the queues for the cash desk are long and slllllllloooooow. It's enough to make you want to burst into tears and teleport yourself to Oxford Street.

This is a thriving, fashion conscious city...come on Topshop...sort it out.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Duke Of York Cinema

01 May 08, 22:00

Just glorious

A visit to the Duke of York is a real treat. This is a beautiful, traditional independent cinema with huge comfortable seats and a bar. There's a distinct lack of chavvy teenagers annoying you with their ringtones and rustling pick & mix bags.

If you fancy something a little different then you'll find it here. The Duke of York offers a wide range of film showings from classic to arty to European (yes subtitles...take your specs!) and so on. It's a beautiful building with a beautful atomsphere. You'll feel like you've had a proper evening out when you leave...and your backside won't have gone to sleep either!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Old Orleans Brighton

01 May 08, 21:31

Not for me

This place reminds me a little of Yates'...you know the sort of place I mean. Bit manky...no atmosphere...clusters of very pissed girls making a LOT of noise!

The cocktail menu's good though...we went there early doors for my friend's birthday to kick start the evening without spending a fortune. We had a laugh but only because there was quite a few of us. Doubt I'd go there out of choice again.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Hanover

01 May 08, 10:42

Gorgeous food

I've only been to the Hanover once but would certainly visit again. It's a big place that looks like it's been fairly recently decorated. There are nice big tables to squeeze you and your mates round and the staff are very lovely indeed. We had a real laugh with the guys serving us...we were treated like regulars.

There are many pubs that serve really good food in Brighton and this certainly gets a spot on that list. The menu has a good selection...we all ordered something different and agreed at the end of the meal that every dish was excellent. Although we were full we somehow managed to squeeze a quick apple crumble in for pudding...yum!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Crescent

01 May 08, 10:37

Nowt special

The Crescent is ok...I've been there quite a few times as my mates live nearby but it's not really somewhere I'd choose to go...particularly for food. It's not bad for Friday night drinks...I quite like the atmosphere of the place.

However, we went for a roast a few months back. I was absolutely starving when I got there and absolutely disappointed by the time I left. Burnt roast potatoes that were hard in the middle, soggy veg and watery gravy. Surely the great British roast isn't that hard to get right? Well...it seems The Crescent have lost the recipe.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Odeon Cinema

30 Apr 08, 07:05

Needs a seeing to

This is one of two cinemas in the Brighton area...the Odeon is the great grandad of the two and really could do with an update. Yes they show everything they should by way of new releases and there are several screens but the outside of the building is positively ugly and the inside could do with a deep clean.

You do tend to get stuck to the floors and you'll find old popcorn and the like stuck to your seat. Nice. Oh and if the auditorium is full...it gets uncomfortably warm in there.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Pub With No Name

30 Apr 08, 06:56

What's it called?

Now either the owners of this pub are creative and original or they just simply couldn't be bothered to think of a name for it. The Pub With No Name is almost at the top of Southover Street on the corner of Toronto Terrace. If you're walking you'll be exhausted by the time you get there but at least you can just roll back down the hill afterwards. It's cool inside and out...but has a nice homely feel too.

You can hire out the upstairs rooms for parties...it's a bit like being in someone's house as it's all divided up. The food is decent and the staff friendly...a very typically Brighton pub...

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Thistle Hotel Brighton

29 Apr 08, 08:21

I feel sorry for the window cleaner...

The Thistle is the all-glass hotel on Brighton seafront. Although I've never stayed there (I live up the road so that would be daft) I did used to be a member at their leisure club and have been in the bar a few times.

It's an angular, odd looking place but pretty big and good for business travellers I would think. The lounge/bar area in the centre of the hotel is overlooked from the inside by some of the bedrooms...strange but quirky I suppose.

The leisure facilities are ok...not the best I've seen...but there is a small pool and gym...and a sauna if my memory serves me right. Not a bad place to relax after a hard day's networking...or whatever it is you do!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The De Vere Grand Hotel

29 Apr 08, 08:13

Brighton landmark

This is without doubt the most famous hotel on Brighton seafront...it's beautiful from the outside...a real landmark.

It is definitely a place for the much older crowd. I've been in the bar during the evening a few times and felt like I was a little out of place...too many blazers and comb-overs for my liking!

That said though you can't go wrong with afternoon tea there with good friends on a special occasion. Very sophis.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Pret A Manger

28 Apr 08, 21:10

I heart Pret

You can't really go wrong with a lunchtime stop off at Pret a Manger...whatever town or city you may be shopping in at the time. There sandwiches and salads are so fresh and far more interesting than your bog standard cheese ploughmans/tuna mayo rubbish. My favourite is the humous and salad sandwich...right up my street especially as they stick pine nuts in there too.

The Brighton version of Pret is always busy but the staff are unbelievably efficient. Don't be put off if there appears to be a large queue at the counter...it will only you hold you up for a minute. They've got their service down to a fine art...it's all so smooth and quick you won't even notice the wait.

1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.

Review of The George

28 Apr 08, 20:56

Veritable veggie feast...

To the untrained eye The George on Trafalgar Street looks like any other Brighton pub. Wrong! This is so much more. For a start it's really nice inside...lots of different nooks and crannies to settle in and a proper Brightonian atmosphere. Very laid back but good fun.

But the amazing thing about The George is the outstanding vegetarian menu. Now you can get good veggie food in most Brighton pubs but this place really stands out. I've never had a meal that was less than brilliant here...and my meaty mates love it too. If you've not yet made your way down there you're doing yourself an injustice. Go now!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Dragon

28 Apr 08, 20:46

Yum!

This used to be my local when I lived in the Kemptown area...and a damn fine one it was too. We popped in within the first few days of moving to the area and received a very warm welcome. The pub is comfortable and cosy but not old-manish and there's plenty of room.

It can get busy at weekends...they often have musicians and djs performing in the pub...Sunday's are particularly popular because of the excellent roasts The Dragon serves up. All in all just a great pub...

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Fratelli

27 Apr 08, 19:24

The newborn...

...of the Donatello family but far less likely to be full of hen parties and large birthday crowds.

Fratelli's strong point is the service there. It's impeccable. The staff are confident, polite and efficient without buzzing around annoying you. They offer a set menu or a la carte so the choice is yours. I'm a fairly simple eater when it comes to Italian food...Caprese Salad to start (juicy tomatoes, perfect mozarella) and Spaghetti Napoli for main (very tasty indeed...and lots of it). A very pleasant way to spend an evening for sure...can't wait for the summer so I can try out their roof terrace. Worth a visit.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Sidewinder

26 Apr 08, 17:06

Good pub...good grub

This is a really decent pub based on St James' Street in Kemptown. It's a typically Brighton pub...good music on the stereo...laid-back, friendly staff...relaxed atmosphere and lots of veggie stuff on the menu. It's not all veggie though...don't panic!

There's pretty much always somewhere to sit even when it's busy and there's a nice little garden at the back for when the sun can be bothered to make an appearance...oh and for the smokers during all weathers of course.

I think it's the perfect place to take people who have never been to the city before. It gives you a real feel of what the city is about.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Fortune Of War

26 Apr 08, 16:47

Pub on the pebbles

The Fortune of War is the only pub right on Brighton Beach. It takes up a couple of the arches under the main road and is nestled comfortably in amongst all the cafes and clubs along there. It doesn't look that much from the front but there's loads of room upstairs. It's all curved wood ceilings to give it that nautical feel. And there are doorways to the underground tunnels used by smugglers back in the day. Love a bit of history!

It's laid-back yet always busy...a great place to start your night...or just to sit outside during the day taking in the (sometimes disturbing) sights on Brighton beach.

It just feels a bit special compared to some of the pubs in the area. The Fortune of War is in a class of it's own. The only reason I haven't given it 5 stars is because it can take a while to get served...but that's purely down to its popularity.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Black Lion

26 Apr 08, 09:59

Funky pub

I really like the Black Lion...it's just the right size and has a couple of sofas dotted about if you're lucky enough to nab one. I wouldn't particularly call it cosy or intimate but then I guess that depends what time of the day you go in.

It's good for a night out with a few mates or to start your night off if you plan on going dancin' later. I would have given the Black Lion 4 stars but was a little bit disappointed with the food last time I went. The staff are dead friendly but got our order wrong and when our lunch arrived it looked a bit like it had been chucked together...not a lot of love there!

Definitely good for drinking though...worth a visit.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Market Diner

26 Apr 08, 09:35

Your weekly calorie intake...

...on one plate.

My mate cat has always maintained that you know when you've had a good night because you wake up with egg on your top. It means you've finished your night out in style...at the Market Diner.

Ok so there are bouncers on the door and some of the food is already plated up and being kept warm under heat lamps...sweating in the glass cabinet...but it's about the whole experience. Not the best place for a vegetarian I have to be honest but a stack of chips and beans at 3am suits me just fine.

What you really go there for though is the antics of the weirdos in there. Pure quality entertainment...

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Koba Public House

25 Apr 08, 22:39

Birthday Bar

I had my 30th at Koba...they have the perfect room upstairs that fits about 50 or so people in with your own bar and funky, chunky seating all around the edge. They wouldn't let us bring a DJ though...that was a bit of a shame. We had full use of their CD player though so that was something.

This is a cocktail bar...so that's their speciality of course. The choice is huge and there's even a small selection of virgin cocktails for the drivers amongst you...or the tee-total freaks like me (don't worry it's not catching).

As an average punter this is a place to slink into late at night to finish your evening off in style if you can't be arsed to go dancing.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Park View

25 Apr 08, 09:04

Big pub...big character

I don't live anywhere near the Park View but as I don't drink I'm more than happy to drive over to meet mates. It's just off Preston Park and never have any trouble finding somewhere to stick my car.

It's pretty big inside...there's an upstairs and downstairs for you to choose from. The garden is the best though...just perfect on a summer's evening...and they do a stunning barbeque with decent veggie options too. They do a weekly quiz in the bar...I only went the once. That's not because it's not enjoyable...just that I'm a bit thick really.

The Park View is well worth a look.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Theatre Royal Brighton

25 Apr 08, 08:33

Beautiful...

...but not always that comfortable the Theatre Royal is about as traditional a theatre as you can get. It's a very old building and although it looks stunning from the inside it can feel a little cramped and my word does it get warm!

That said I do love going there and have seen some brilliant stuff over the years. The variety of productions is vast...something for everyone...and you can't beat the taste of the ice-cream during the interval. Especially if you've been melting up in the balcony!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Funky Buddha Lounge

24 Apr 08, 18:35

Small but perfectly formed

The Buddha is a tiny little club under the arches on Brighton beach and loved by the local clubbers. It can get pretty packed and warm in there but if you get there early enough you can bagsy the nice white seats at the back.

Weekends promise a real treat with Thank Funk It's Friday hosted by the excitable but talented Sean Quinn and Saturdays you'll find the legend that is Mike Panteli laying down some seriously deep & funky soul/funk/RnB and the like. Nice.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Ha! Ha! Bar & Canteen

24 Apr 08, 09:55

I heart Ha! Ha!

I really do love this place...yes it's a chain but what difference does that make? It's got a decent sized bar at the front that gets nice and busy with the out-and-about crowd at weekends but what I really go there for is the top quality food at extremely decent prices.

It suits whether there's just the two of you or a really big crowd...I've had my birthday meal there a couple of times and they can easily fit 20 or so people round one of their huge tables. They let us decorate with balloons and streamers too...nice.

I love their veggie pasta dishes...oh and the home-made nachos with buckets of guacamole and salsa are the stuff that dreams are made of. I've always found the staff excellent too...dead friendly and relaxed yet very efficient. Do give it a try. Do.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Gala Clubs

23 Apr 08, 09:55

Just plain fun!

Now don't get me wrong...I'm not a regular when it comes to the beautiful game of bingo but every now and then it is a cracking night out.

Get a few mates together...sign up for free at the door and get set to giggle with excitement for two hours. The evening session at the Brighton Gala costs £11 and you get plenty of chances for that price. The drinks are dirt cheap and there's a cafe serving pies, chips, beans and the like. It's a bit like school dinners but fills a gap at the interval.

Make sure you get a dobber...it's all part of the fun. If it's your first visit don't be afraid to ask the regulars for help. They really know their stuff.

It's a right laugh...just don't get too hooked!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Hilton Brighton Metropole

23 Apr 08, 09:41

Perfect venue

As a Brighton resident I've never actually had the need to stay at the Hilton Metropole but have been there countless time for work dos and other big events such as charity balls. The building is stunning from the outside and vast on the inside. Did you know there are a couple of privately owned flats right at the top of the hotel? How cool would it be to live there?!

There are several large function rooms and I can imagine that it is a great place for a wedding although nobody's invited me to one there so far...

Even at large events the catering staff cope very well...the food is of good quality and gets to you promptly. I've been there for breakfast a couple of times too and the selection is huge.

The Metropole is a favourite for artists performing in the area so it's great to sit in the comfy bar late in the evening and star spot...I've seen one or two celebs in there over the years.

I've had some fantastic nights out at the Metropole...can't wait for the next one.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Browns

23 Apr 08, 09:32

Arsey staff...good food!

I've only eaten at a couple of branches of Browns...the Brighton one being most local to me so I've been there a handful of times. The food is always really well prepared and tasty. It's a little on the expensive side but it is worth it.

The last couple of times I've been there to eat I've found the staff a bit up their own backsides...maybe that's how they're taught to be?! Last time in particular the guy who served us was efficient but looked as though he'd rather be anywhere else in the world. He finally broke a smile near the end of the night when my dad took the Mickey out of him...well he deserved it the moody git.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Nando's Chickenland

22 Apr 08, 08:50

Ok...

...so Nando's Chickenland is really not the best place for a vegetarian but they do have options on the menu although few and far between.

I've only eaten at the Brighton branch once and I won't go there again. Or to any other Nando's for that matter. I ordered a veggie burger specifically without mayonnaise. It eventually came (service is snail-like) smothered in the stuff and when I complained I was told that's how it's advertised on the menu so I should've been clearer with my order. The cheek of it! I was totally unimpressed with the whole experience to be honest.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Mad Hatter

22 Apr 08, 07:55

Wholesome & filling

The Mad Hatter is the cafe on the corner opposite Waitrose on Western Road. You can't miss it. Don't quote me on this but I think they do mostly veggie food which suits me just fine. Their falafel is to die for...and absolutely HUGE. You get a good feed but don't feel like you've eaten a big plate of stodge. It's all good quality healthy stuff.

The cafe itself is funky with plenty of pavement tables for when the sun's out. It is right on the main road but that just means you get a great vantage point to watch the crazy world of Brighton amble by. Eating here won't break the bank either...excellent value for money.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Blanch House

21 Apr 08, 21:28

Pure class

I've only been to Blanch House the once but was completely blown away. I went there to eat just before Christmas with my parents and their friends. We were treated so well by the staff...I'm a veggie and my mum is dairy intolerant and they made such a huge effort to make sure we were properly catered for. They really took the time to speak to my mum in particular about what she would like to eat even though the restaurant was full and they were very busy.

The restaurant itself is very intimate and not in the least bit pretentious considering what an amazing reputation this place has. Not only are the staff helpful but they are great characters too...they're smart and interesting and really know their food and wine.

After dinner we stopped for a cheeky cocktail or two in the bar. It's very plush but friendly with a massive selection of drinks...I was the only non-drinker in the group. The staff in the bar really went to town on my Virgin Colada...it was a work of art. Even the glass was shaped like a pineapple...Del Boy would have been envious!

Because of the prices Blanch House is to be visited on a special occasion...but make sure you go at least once. It really is very special.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Hartington

21 Apr 08, 21:15

All you need from a pub

The Hartington is my mates' local. It's just up the hill off Hartington Road which runs off Lewes Road. I'd never been there until my mates moved to the area and now I go all the time. I like it because it's out of town and filled with the lovely locals that live near by. And it's not the sort of local where everyone stops what they're doing to see who's just come in the door. It's warm and welcoming.

They do fantastic food spanning different nationalities or you can go for good traditional British pub grub like the sausage and mash or a big fat burger. Everything tastes fresh and it takes a reassuring amount of time for your food to get to you...cooked to order not microwaved! The staff are great too...always very smiley. They clearly like where they work.

They display work of local artists on the walls...some really beautiful pieces. Oh and there's a pool table too.

Give it a try...you'll like it I promise!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Western Front

20 Apr 08, 17:35

Perfect shopping fuel

The best thing about Western Front is that it isn't one of the many chains that you normally end up in for lunch when you're out shopping all day. It's just at the bottom of the steps as you come out of Chuchill Square at the H&M end. During the day you can sit out on the pavement...plate full of nachos and a large cold drink watching the loony world of Brighton drift by. Upstairs there are big sofas in front of huge windows that over-look the shoppers so it's just as good a vantage point when the weather's bad.

It's not plush inside by any means...wooden floors...wooden tables and chairs (even a pew or two I think) and a rickety staircase that takes you upstairs. It's got that 'Brighton' feel to it though...friendly, funky staff and good music on the stereo. The lunch menu is extensive and includes gems like ham, egg & chips, fish finger sandwiches and of course the aforementioned stack of nachos. Apparently they're for two people...no-one told me that!

I've been in The Western Front a couple of times during the evening too and it's usually packed with the usual Brighton mix of Indie kids and the like. When I say kids though I mean the grown up variety...it's not rammed with 18 year olds. Don't worry...they're all in Yates' on West Street.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Zizzi

19 Apr 08, 16:44

Top notch Italian

Yes...I know it's a chain but that is totally irrelevant. Zizzi is right up there when it comes to serving high quality, authentic Italian food.

There's not just your usual endless lists of pizza and pasta options on the menu...it's more than that. I love their bruchetta starter with goats cheese and walnuts. Gorgeous!

The restaurant itself is fairly large without being impersonal and seating is available on two floors. As it's bang, smack in the middle of the South Lanes are of Brighton you won't be able to park nearby but you should be using public transport anyway!

The staff and prices are decent too...well worth a visit.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Hotel Du Vin & Bistro

19 Apr 08, 16:02

Classy

I've never eaten at the Hotel du Vin but have spent many an hour curled up on their cosy sofas putting the world to rights with my boy. We like sitting up on the mezzanine and watching world below us. Ooh and they have a posh snooker table too of you fancy a game or two.

The whole place is very relaxed...including the staff which means they can be a little slow with the service. That doesn't matter though because they'll bring your drinks to you so just get comfy and take it all in whilst you wait.

I've heard from many that the restaurant is fantastic if not a little expensive. I'd love to eat there on a special occasion...are you listening boy?!

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Gourmet Burger Kitchen

18 Apr 08, 23:21

Wow...that is a big'un!

GBK (as it's affectionately known) is the perfect place to stuff your face whether it's at the end of a hard day of shopping, before a big night out for lining of the stomach or because you're off to Komedia in an hour's time and can't face their nachos again.

I'm a veggie and was concerned when I walked in that my options would be limited. WRONG! There's plenty for us non-eaters-of-things-with faces. If I remember rightly I had the falafel last time and it was nearly as tall as me. It was smothered in cool yoghurt and cucumber dressing...yum.

Definitely worth a visit...you won't spend your whole evening there but it is high-quality 'fast' food.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of The Brighton Dome

18 Apr 08, 23:12

I heart The Dome

What a venue this is.

Probably the best in Brighton because of its size (big...but not too big), beautiful decor and fantastic (relatively new) bar area with its mezanine floor. Of course what really does it is the huge range of live entertainment at The Dome.

Of all the stuff on offer I love to see bands there the most. It depends who you see as to whether they leave the stalls in or not but for the most part you can pretty much choose whether you stand or sit. I saw Rufus Wainwright there last summer and that would have to go down as one of my all time favourite gigs...the fact that it was at The Dome was a huge part of that.

If you've never been I suggest you get to their website, pick something that suits your taste and get there as soon as possible. I promise you'll re-visit time and again.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Honey Club

18 Apr 08, 23:06

Am I too old?!

It might just be my age but I think I've had it with the Honey Club.

I've been maybe 3 times in the past 18 months and just didn't really like it much. Don't get me wrong they book some seriously good DJs but I just don't feel at ease there. There seems to be a little bit of an attitude about the place at times...there's too much primping and preening in the ladies and people generally seem too bothered about what they're wearing to have a proper good time.

Not only that but it is REALLY expensive...when you have to pay £15 just to get through the door on certain nights it does leave a bit of a bad taste in your mouth and the drinks are equally as extortionate.

Blimey...I really do sound old. Think I best get to bed with a nice cup of Horlicks.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Digital

18 Apr 08, 23:00

An old flame revisited

I used to drive to Zap (now Digital) from my hometown of Southampton as a hungry 18 year old. Alright I was 17 but don't tell anyone. I was bang into my hard house and loved the Zap and all its glorious weirdos. I spent many a crazy night in there flinging myself about and talking to people I probably shouldn't have.

I don't really club so much now but have been to Digital in the past year to see Gallows and British Sea Power. It's small enough to feel like you're part of the act...well Gallows spread themselves right around the place anyway so you didn't have much choice in the matter. Both were excellent gigs and strangely well suited to a place known for its strutting dancefloor lovelies.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Concorde 2

18 Apr 08, 22:49

I love this place!

Concorde 2 is a little bit dark and a little bit mucky but that just adds to the romance of this splendid gig venue. Without meaning to sound pretentious...it's very 'Brighton' They have club nights here too such as Fat Boy's Big Beat Boutique.

It's not fantasically easy to get to on foot but that just adds to the excitement as you walk along the seafront on Madeira Drive (mind the boy-racers!) If you're the designated driver then it's no problem at all as you can park virtually outside for free in the evenings.

I've seen some amazing bands at Concorde 2 and have loved every second of being squeezed in with all the other musos, jumping around and getting a bit damp. That's what the Concorde 2 is all about. I went to Concorde 1 once as well...before it got shut down. This is the perfect replacement.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Komedia

18 Apr 08, 22:41

A bloody good night out

'The' comedy venue in Brighton...definitely one of my favourite things to do with mates of a weekend. I've been countless times and have always had a brilliant night.

The Krater Comedy Club at Komedia never fails to impress with it's line-up of talent. The regular compere Stephen Grant is rock solid and holds the whole thing together seamlessly. His comedy can be a little Brighton-centric but what do you expect from a Brighton based comedy club? He's damn funny so you'll love him even if you're not from these parts.

I've seen a few bands upstairs in Komedia too...the perfect intimate venue to get up close and personal with the artists (not like that you mucky pup). My favourite gig was British Sea Power a few months ago. I've seen them a few times in the past year but they seemed really at home at Komedia...just brilliant.

The food can be a little on the basic side and it can take a while to get served at the bar but push all this aside because it really is a small negative compared to the fantastic entertainment on offer.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Churchill Square Shopping Centre

18 Apr 08, 22:19

Spend, spend, spend!

Churchill Square is the 'High Street' in Brighton basically. It's got most of the big names (although M&S, Boots and Top Shop are outside on Western Road). There's a Debenhams and a BHS...River Island, Next, Miss Selfridge, Warehouse, Zara, Jane Norman, USC, Envy, Aldo, Dolcis, Schuh, Pumpkin Patch, Expo, Superdrug, WH Smith, JD Sports, Accessorize, O'Neill, Republic, Habitat, HMV, Virgin, Game...ummm and lots more.

There's a fair amount of parking and it's not too expensive but it's better and probably easier to use the buses if you can. They're so frequent you'll never be waiting around. If you're coming in by train it'll take you about 10 minutes to walk to the shopping centre.

There's a food court on the top level but I have to admit I don't really use it. I think there's a Quizzno's, McDonalds and maybe even a Spudulike...not sure though. I only live up the road so I usually go home for my post-shopping nosebag.

You are spoilt for choice for shopping in Brighton as a whole but Churchill Square more than serves its purpose...and is great when it's wet outside.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Gars

18 Apr 08, 21:58

Above average Chinese

I've only eaten at Gars once but was very impressed. You'll pay a little more than you would in any other Chinese restaurant but it really is worth it. It's got a nice contemporary feel to it and the food is really very good. The menu is impressive without being overwhelmingly large. The dishes are beautifully presented and the perfect size to fill you up nicely without feeling like you've eaten your body weight in noodles.

The only downside to my visit was the close proximity of other diners. There was about 6 inches between our table and the couple next to us. It could have been quite uncomfortable but the couple were so weird it was actually quite entertaining. She was clearly 20 years his senior and was telling him in rather rubbish code what she was going to do to him when they got home. Hilarious!

I can't guarantee they'll be there when you visit but Gars is definitely worth a trip.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Havana Restaurant & Bar

18 Apr 08, 09:04

Right up its own backside!

Havana was the first ever restaurant I ate in when I moved to Brighton. In fact I ate there the day I arrived here after a hard day of driving and unloading and traipsing up and down steps. Me and my then boyfriend were starving and looking forward to wandering around in our new town (it was a town then!) and having something good to eat.

We wandered from place to place and everywhere was full...it was a warm Saturday night in July. We eventually found a table at Havana which they seemed to begrudge giving us. We were still in our 'moving clothes' which by no means were scruffy. Just jeans & t-shirts really. However we were scowled at by the staff throughout the evening.

Don't get me wrong the food is good but expensive...they also go for the small and pretty angle when it comes to portion sizes. It didn't exactly fill a gap. The restaurant itself is looks lovely...all wood falls and white furniture.

I did go back to Havana a couple of years later with a mate and her footballer boyfriend. I watched whilst the staff flapped around him...although my friend and I were still treated with the same disdain I'd experienced before.

I certainly wouldn't go back there again. There's nothing worse than being made to feel like you should be grateful for being somewhere like that.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Terre A Terre

17 Apr 08, 09:06

Over-priced

There's no denying the food at this vegetarian restaurant is very good but my word is it expensive! Considering the menu is all veggie...that means everything is made of vegetables. So how can you justify charging up to £9 for a starter and £15 for a main course??!! Outrageous.

I admit I've only eaten there once and that's mostly because I can't afford to go back anytime soon. I also found the staff a little bit 'difficult'...maybe they were just having a bad night.

There are equally good if not better vegetarian restuarants in Brighton and you won't have to remortgage your house to eat in them. I suggest you go elsewhere.

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Food For Friends

17 Apr 08, 08:42

Simply the best...

...veggie restaurant in Brighton...Great Britain...the World!

As a proper vegetarian (no I don't eat fish...or have the occasional kebab after a few WKDs like some so-called veggies) this restaurant is just pure heaven. You can usually get decent vegetarian food in most places in Brighton...we're catered for very well...but Food for Friends is out of this world. It takes some work to create really different and tasty food made purely from vegetables and they do it with style and flourish without being pretentious.

I've eaten there many times and have always been blown away. The restaurant itself is on a corner and you feel a bit like you're inside someone's home as there are different 'rooms' giving it a nice intimate feel. The staff are smart and effective without being pushy and they really know their food.

And it's not expensive either...you pay exactly what you would expect in a good city centre restaurant. It does get very busy...just proof once more that it is so good. To my knowledge, you can't book which is the case in many Brighton restaurants particularly at the weekend so get there early to avoid disappointment.

I've been there with many of my meat-eating friends and family members and they all loved it too. You really do have to go and see for yourself...

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.

Review of Brighton Centre

16 Apr 08, 09:22

Brighton's biggest venue...

...for music, exhibitions, conferences and the like.

Not the prettiest building on the seafront by any stretch but really does the job. I've seen some fantastic bands there from Kings of Leon to Prodigy to Hard-Fi. The acoustics are good and you get a decent view pretty much wherever you are in the arena.

The Brighton Bears used to play their home games at the Centre and it proved to be a great sports venue too. Shame the team aren't around anymore...

Every January Holiday on Ice comes to town...not my cup of tea at all but it means for a couple of weeks beforehand they open the ice rink up to the public. I went twice over Christmas just gone...loads of fun!

Unfortunately there are contstant threats to knock the building down but despite that the staff at the Brighton Centre continue to do a sterling job. I for one would be very sad to see it disappear from the seafront...although a facelift wouldn't go a miss.

1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.

Review of Terraces Bar & Grill

16 Apr 08, 08:24

Once was enough

My housemate took me to this restaurant because he had vouchers to spend there. The vouchers were by way of compensation for a bad experience a friend of his had had there and they need using up.

'Great...free meal' we thought...

Thank goodness we didn't have to pay. There was a strange atmosphere about the place...it may have to do with the layout of the tables. Because the building is round everyone is seated around the edge and I don't remember there being any tables in the middle which left it feeling a bit sparse. The food was really uninspiring...my chips were cold, my housemate's steak was tough and the mayo on the side looked like it had been left out of the fridge too long. Even the service left a lot to be desired.

Bear in mind that I'm usually easily-pleased...not the sort to get upset about minor flaws...but I will not eat here again.

(ps. the star is for the lovely views of the sea and Palace Pier)

0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.