Going out for brunch on a sunny Saturday in Brighton is one of life’s greatest pleasures, especially when you’re ordering something you’d never bother cooking at home. If you’re after something a little more special than your usual eggs and toast, head down to the recently opened Burger & Lobster, tucked between The Breakfast Club and Permit Room on Market Street.
We were lucky enough to be invited down to sample the brunch menu, and let’s just say it did not disappoint. Burger & Lobster already have several London locations, but this is their first new opening in a few years, and it feels like they’ve put a lot of thought and love into this one.
We were greeted with a warm welcome from the manager, who was more than happy to chat about the menu and the care that’s gone into sourcing ingredients from local Brighton suppliers. From Flour Pot Bakery bread to Brighton-roasted coffee, Brighton Gin and even a Tuaca Sunrise cocktail on offer, the menu has been fully Brighton coded.
The interiors are elegant and fun. Chandeliers resembling oyster shells drip from the ceiling, while a fairy-light-covered tree takes centre stage in the main room. A neon sign above the bar reads ‘Welcome home, pleasure seeker’ – and after one look at the oyster-filled ice tank, you’ll feel exactly that.
Attention to detail is everywhere. We were obsessed with the pastel pink napkins embroidered with ‘An elegant mess’ and the menus, which are decorated with quirky, playful illustrations. It’s giving luxe with a side of fun.
Our waitress, Anoushka, was super friendly and full of solid recommendations. While the name suggests it’s just burgers and lobster (and they are the stars of the show), the menu also features a shellfish bar, classic brunch dishes, salads, and some seriously tempting sides – hellooo mac ‘n’ cheese. There are also combo options – perfect if you want to try a bit of everything (which, obviously, we did).
We kicked things off with six oysters, served with a shallot vinaigrette in a stunning ceramic oyster dish. Fresh, briny, and delicious. Then came the croquettes, and honestly, we’re still thinking about them. The Wagyu beef, Cheddar and onion mayo croquettes were umami-rich and crispy, while the lobster, prawn and mozzarella ones were packed with sweet-briny flavour and oozing with cheesy goodness.
For the main event, we went for the lobster combo, which included half a lobster, a lobster roll, and fries. Anoushka suggested we try the lobster steamed rather than grilled and wow, it was a revelation. Tender, succulent, and drenched in your own personal boat of garlic butter, with the most generous amount of lobster meat we’ve ever sampled.
The lobster roll was equally indulgent – a sweet and buttery brioche roll overflowing with juicy lobster in a creamy sauce. The parmesan fries were the perfect sidekick: salty, crisp, and even better dipped in the lemon aioli.
We skipped the traditional dessert route as we were very full, and went for liquid desserts instead – a tiramisu espresso martini and a toffee apple martini. Both were deliciously sweet and dangerously drinkable. That said, we’ve already made a mental note to come back for the ice-cream sandwich; caramelised brioche, Boho Gelato vanilla, chocolate brownie, and popcorn. Yes, please.
Burger & Lobster is a fun and fabulous addition to Brighton’s restaurant scene, offering genuinely delicious seafood at fairly reasonable prices. Whether it’s a birthday, a special brunch with friends, or just an excuse to treat yourself, this spot delivers. We’ll definitely be back, and next time, we’re trying that ice-cream sandwich.
