Burnt Orange: A sophisticated Middle Eastern oasis

A relaxed, social restaurant in the heart of Brighton offering wood-fired small plates, incredible cocktails, and private dining.

The Story

Tucked just moments away from the historic Lanes and the salty breeze of the seafront, Burnt Orange feels like a well-kept secret that everyone is suddenly talking about. It was born from the desire to create a "grown-up" hangout, a place where the music is just right, the lighting is low, and the food is designed to be lingered over. Since opening its doors in a beautiful 16th-century coach house, it has quickly become the spot for those who want a night that feels special without the stiff formality of traditional fine dining.

For a hen group, it hits that elusive sweet spot. It’s elegant enough to feel like a real occasion, yet the atmosphere is fueled by the energy of Brighton’s social scene. You aren't just here for a quick bite; you’re here to settle into a velvet booth, toast the bride-to-be with something sparkling, and let the evening unfold at its own pace. It’s the kind of place where the scent of woodsmoke and roasted spices greets you at the door, promising a weekend memory that stays with you long after the last cocktail is finished.

What Makes It Special

The magic of Burnt Orange lies in its "Right Here, Right Now" philosophy. The menu is a love letter to the Mediterranean and Middle East, focused on high-quality ingredients transformed by the heat of a wood fire. For a hen party, the social aspect of their sharing plates is a winner. Instead of everyone staring at their own dish, you’re passing around charred flatbreads, smokey aubergine, and perfectly grilled sea bream, which naturally keeps the conversation flowing.

The interior design is just as delicious as the food. Think warm terracotta tones, lush greenery, and a heated terrace that feels like a private Mediterranean courtyard. If you’re looking for something a bit more exclusive, their private dining room is a dream. It offers the same buzzy atmosphere but with the intimacy your group needs to share stories, open gifts, and celebrate the bride in your own dedicated space. It feels sophisticated, stylish, and unmistakably Brighton.

"The food was incredible, especially the wood-fired dishes, but what really made it was the service. They looked after our large group so well and the cocktails were some of the best we've had in the city."

Must-Try Highlights

The Private Dining Room: A stunning, self-contained space that’s perfect for groups of up to 10 guests who want an intimate feast.
Wood-Fired Small Plates: The charred octopus and the signature Burnt Orange humous are absolute non-negotiables for the table.
Curated Cocktails: Their drinks menu is designed to complement the smoky flavours of the food, featuring creative twists on classics that look as good as they taste.

Insider Tips

If you’re planning a Brighton hen party dinner here, booking well in advance is essential as this is one of the most popular spots in town. For larger groups, look into their "Experience Menus." These are set menus designed to showcase the very best of the kitchen, taking the stress out of ordering and ensuring everyone gets a taste of the highlights. It also makes splitting the bill at the end of the night much simpler, which any maid of honour will tell you is a lifesaver.

If the weather is playing ball, try to grab a drink on the terrace before your meal. It’s a beautiful spot to catch the golden hour light. Also, don't skip the dessert menu, the chocolate and sesame combinations are legendary among locals.

Address: 59 Middle St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton, BN1 1AL
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Late night bar on weekends)
Website: https://burnt-orange.co.uk/
Booking: Reservations can be made via the website or by emailing their events team for private dining enquiries. For general enquiries info@burnt-orange.co.uk 01273 929923

Don't Miss

Choosing Burnt Orange for your celebration ensures your weekend has that polished, city-chic edge that Brighton does so well. It’s about more than just a meal; it’s about that feeling of being exactly where you want to be, surrounded by your favourite people, with a glass in hand and incredible food on the way. It’s these moments of connection, laughter, and great vibes that turn a simple trip into a legendary girls' weekend.