Mayfair might be one of London’s splashiest neighbourhoods, but Chantelle Nicholson’s low-waste restaurant Apricity swerves expectations from the off. Rough-luxe aesthetics (pink plaster walls, strings of plants, upcycled furniture and pottery), an eco-conscious menu, and spot-on cooking won this spot a Green Star in the 2023 Michelin Awards, just a year after opening.
Chef and founder Chantelle keeps her menu as locally sourced as possible – all part of the regenerative and low-impact practices that won this spot its Michelin nod. Primarily, this means turning to Sussex’s rolling hills and coastal towns. “I’ve had a close connection with Sussex produce for several years,” she says. “We work closely with small, biodynamic farmers there for most of our fresh vegetables and fruit at Apricity. The micro-climate and chalky soils mixed with decades of know-how have created something special.”
Chefs like Chantelle are meticulous about their produce – from fruit and veggies to fish to even wine. And, according to her, Sussex is the best of the best. “It’s a playground for wonderful food and wine,” she says. “I most recently spent a weekend there in March and really enjoyed visiting a few places that were a little off the beaten track.”
Below, she shares five top recommendations for eating out in Sussex.
The Bolney Stage
“The Bolney Stage is a traditional English pub with some great beers on tap, tasty food and really friendly service. There's a real sense of community spirit – it's a great place for families, friends, and dog friendly too.”
Who comes here?
“Locals – they even have a regular running club that starts from the pub, obviously finishing with a pint or two!”
Best table in the restaurant?
“I like to come in winter and sit next to one of the roaring, open fires.”
Best time to come?
“Late lunch – to cosy up indoors in winter or on their terrace in summer.”
The dish to order?
“Try the chicken liver paté – rich and delicious. With a pint of one of their guest beers, of course.”
The Star at Alfriston
“The Star is a beautifully designed space and a favourite for locals and visitors. They also have bedrooms to book, so you can stay the night too, right in the heart of the quaint little village of Alfriston. It has a restaurant out the back, as well as a gorgeous outdoor garden – weather permitting, of course.”
Who comes here?
“Due to the hotel onsite, it’s a busting place for both villagers, as well as those on holiday from further afield.”
Best table in the restaurant?
“The outside terrace is a top spot during the warmer months.”
Best time to come?
“Early evening. Make sure you start with a glass of Sussex fizz (Roebuck Estates is one of my favourites).”
The dish to order?
“Their homemade focaccia bread is so delicious – I had to ask for a second round!”
Embers in Brighton
“A newly-opened restaurant from a seasoned team that cooks mainly over fire. There’s a menu of small plates that use local produce and an open kitchen. It’s a great spot to go with a group of friends to be able to try everything on the menu and soak up the atmosphere.”
Who comes here?
“It’s becoming a top spot for those who enjoy flame-grilled flavours, as well as Brighton locals wanting to check out the new spot in town.”
Best table in the restaurant?
“At the bar counter – the theatre of the kitchen is lovely to see.”
Best time to come?
“A chilly evening – the wood-fired scent is enticingly cosy.”
The dish to order?
“The shiitake and cashew nut larb is super tasty – a real umami hit, with a good lick of lime to round it all off.”
Rathfinny Estate
“One of the largest estates in Sussex, Rathfinny has the most stunning views over acres of vines. The tasting room is a great way to try the selection of sparkling wines, as well as a small range of still wines also made here. There is a restaurant onsite, with floor-to-ceiling windows, and they also offer seasonal treats from their food hut.”
Who comes here?
“It’s a favourite spot for Sussex locals and tourists from abroad wanting to see what all the (well-deserved) fuss is about with English wine.”
Best table in the restaurant?
“There is no bad spot to be! As well as the restaurant, there’s a bunch of picnic tables to while away an afternoon and soak up the views.”
Best time to come?
“Early afternoon, especially if it’s a calm and sunny day. The wind can be rather fierce!”
The dish to order?
“I can highly recommend having a tasting at the Cellar Door, then opting for a snack and a glass of their blancs de blancs outside.”
The Pass at South Lodge
“South Lodge is a beautiful country-house hotel with ornate rooms, stunning grounds, and a chic spa. The Pass is an intimate space, mainly open for supper, offering a changing tasting menu, with an open kitchen to see the inner workings of the space.”
Who comes here?
“A favourite among those wanting to celebrate, as well as hotel guests making the most of their stay in Sussex.”
Best table in the restaurant?
“If you’re in the mood to see the magic unfold, then adjacent to the kitchen is a top spot.”
Best time to come?
“I can highly recommend a weekend stay at the hotel – with dinner at the Pass, of course. Any time of year is a treat, but early Autumn would be my pick to enjoy the golden hues of the grounds.”
The dish to order?
“The seven-course tasting menu at The Pass changes frequently. The snacks are one of the highlights – I love the crispy, fine tartlets of mushroom mousse.”