Cyan Brighton — Restaurant in Great Britain

Date: 17th August 2024 Cost: £350 inc wine and cocktails for four

Another restaurant review, another reminder of my administrative deficiencies. Tonight it was to the Grand, where I’d blotted my previously perfect son-in-law’s copybook by promising Jackie an afternoon tea, getting everyone dolled up and taxied down there, only to be given a very patronising but very deserved explanation of how to use online booking forms. Jackie took it well - the Walrus was “fine, love” - but I knew she’d never truly be happy until I righted my clerical clusterfuck and took her back.

Our table was right by the window, which helped a lot with the overall experience I feel. You know those nice restaurants in hotels on the beach that allow you to disappear into the delusion of a life less ordinary while you’re on holiday or celebrating an occasion until you cross the lobby for a wee and some sandy little bastard nearly digs a chunk out of your smart shoes with his spade, completely unbeknownst to his parents who are topless, sunburnt and arguing loudly with the front desk about whether or not they can take their half-finished cans of beach lager into the bar area? The Grand wasn’t quite that bad, but I’m glad we had our little corner by the window, away from the main glare of the eponymous lights in the bar area, the perfect setting for a bit of quiet escapism looking out over the road to sea.

We played our parts too, ordering cocktails and marinated ‘mammoth’ olives that were average-sized enough to suggest the description was referring to another aspect of the extinct woolly probiscedean’s make-up. These we enjoyed with some complimentary popcorn while we (I) sent our waitress back two or three times before we (I) were ready to order. In fairness, there were several combinations (got to get the entire order straight, and not just each individual course). The menu was centred around the kitchen’s grill, which offered five meat and five seafood options, and bolstered by several ‘classics’ from each category that were non-classic enough to spend plenty of time mulling over, like the roast cod with ham hock, hispi cabbage & panko egg yolk, for example. I should have ordered that one, actually.

In the end I went for the monkfish and then ran after the waitress to change it to a steak.I don’t eat steak often enough not to be tempted by it every time it’s on the menu somewhere that isn’t Wetherspoons, but it was still a safe choice that in hindsight almost paid off. It was tasty, and well-cooked, and large and good value for money, but didn’t quite leave me with that celebratory joy I get when I take a mouthful at certain dedicated (and granted, more expensive) steakhouses. The portions were big all round actually, and so the highlight was everyone getting to try a bit of everything. The king prawn that came with Jackie’s starter was humungous and delicious (even Mich tried and liked it); the lobster & macaroni croquettes were crispy and light; the rump of lamb was outstanding I thought; the Asian-style beef rib got the most plaudits; and the oysters provided as much entertainment as they did enjoyment. Maybe we belong in the...

I had booked an afternoon tea here for after our wedding - booked in advance weeks before and I let them know my dietary requirements. We arrived on time (there are two sittings), however it seemed everyone else had arrived and started before us. Despite letting them know which afternoon tea options and dietary info before they had to ask it all again on the afternoon; delaying getting any drinks and food. We eventually got the sandwiches and quiche - thankfully the food was lovely, as was the recommended bottle of sparking wine. Sadly, we then had to wait until 15 minutes before we were expected to leave to have the scones and cakes - despite asking for them twice. Trying to get the attention of a member of staff was very difficult. It clearly states on the booking that you have the table from 4pm til 5.30 - so getting a second large course of food 15 minutes before we had to leave was ridiculous. I had informed the hotel that we had another engagement afterwards as well. By the time our cakes and scones had arrived - almost every other table on the terrace had cleared and left. One could also overlook the size of the table that were given - six of us squashed into a corner with a fully packed table of crockery and cutlery. With a reputation supposedly as good as they have - and the fact it was my wedding day - this was a very disappointing experience - especially for the price they charge. I was almost inclined to refuse the optional 10% service charge - as it was, I felt, undeserved. I will not...

I recently had the pleasure of enjoying an English roast dinner at a lovely restaurant, and I must say, it was one of the best dining experiences I have had in a long time. The crispy potatoes were the perfect complement to the tender, juicy beef that was cooked to perfection. The elaborate surroundings added to the overall ambiance of the meal, making it a truly special occasion.

One thing I particularly appreciated was the attention to detail in terms of cleanliness. From the spotless tablecloths to the gleaming silverware, everything was pristine and well-maintained. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and they made me feel right at home.

The roast dinner itself was a work of art. The crispy potatoes were fluffy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, making each bite a delightful experience. The beef was juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning. It was easy to see why the restaurant has a reputation for serving some of the best roast dinners in town.

Overall, I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a delightful English roast dinner in a welcoming, clean, and friendly environment. Whether you're a fan of classic cuisine or just looking for a tasty meal, this place is definitely...