The high level of competition which exists in the Brighton restaurant scene means that its actually quite hard to spend a great deal of money on a fabulous night out.  If you feel like taking that challenge on however, here are the best restaurants to have a go at:

 Due South - Situated on the seafront in front of The Grand Hotel ,this is a small charming restaurant which is always busy so book well in advance.  Request a table by the window for the sea view.  Great vegetarian and meat dishes but of course the thing to be eating here is fresh fish.  This restaurant was on the Observer food award 2006 shortlist for best restaurant with a view.  In summer you can sit outside.

Blanch House, 17 Atlingworth Street - Where all the Brighton trendies hang out but don't let that put you off!  Fantastic cocktail bar and a very good but reasonably priced menu at £30 pp. 

 The Strand, 6 Little East Street - So cosy and romantic, the food is fabulous and the wine list ain't so bad either.  Very stylishly done seaside themed decor - it pulls it off without being tacky.  Nice lunches but the portions are a little on the small side - definitely one to save for dinner.

 Pinxto People, Western Road (opp Waitrose) - Very contemporary restaurant which has a bar and a small selection of  tapas downstairs with the restaurant and cocktail bar upstairs.  Food is out of this world.  Cocktails great and there are 4 different types of Sangria to choose from.  Gets very busy so book early.