Riddle & Finns The Lanes

You'll spot the theatrical seafood towers before you even step inside this Victorian lanes institution. The mahogany-rich interior feels properly old-school Brighton, all dark wood and brass fittings, but the energy is pure buzzy brasserie. Slip into one of the leather banquettes and watch as towering plateaux de fruits de mer glide past your table like edible sculptures. The oyster selection changes daily depending on what's come off the boats, and they know their way around both a champagne cork and a proper pint of Guinness. Yes, it's touristy because it sits bang in the heart of The Lanes, but locals still pack the bar for post-work bubbles and half-dozens of natives. The weekend brunch crowd spills onto Meeting House Lane, clutching Bloody Marys and debating whether to go full seafood platter or play it safe with the fish and chips.