There are few things in life more comforting than a good Sunday roast. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, a meal steeped in tradition, nostalgia, and (if your family is anything like mine) a healthy dose of lighthearted bickering. So when we decided to have a family roast at Fitzherberts in Brighton, expectations were high. Spoiler alert: Fitzherberts delivered, and then some.
Brighton is a city known for its quirky charm, and Fitzherberts fits right in. Nestled on a bustling corner, it’s the kind of place where the scent of slow-cooked meat and roasted potatoes wafts out the door, drawing you in like a moth to a flame. Inside, it’s cozy and unpretentious, with an atmosphere that says, “Come as you are, and leave well-fed.”
The Menu: A Roast for Every Appetite
The first thing you notice about the Fitzherberts menu is the variety. Whether you’re a carnivore, a vegetarian, or someone who just wants a mountain of roast potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Between the five of us, we ordered a mix of beef, lamb, and the vegetarian nut roast. Because if you’re not ordering at least one of everything, are you even a proper family?
The portions were generous—borderline intimidating, really. Each plate arrived piled high with perfectly cooked meat (or nut roast), crispy roast potatoes, vibrant vegetables, and the pièce de résistance: a Yorkshire pudding the size of my face. Gravy came in a jug on the side, as it should, because some of us (me) like to drown our plates in it.
The Food: Heaven on a Plate
Let’s start with the beef. Tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection, it practically melted in your mouth. The lamb was equally divine, with just the right amount of seasoning to let the natural flavors shine. As for the nut roast, even the most hardcore meat-eaters at the table had to admit it was delicious—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor.
The roast potatoes were everything you want them to be: golden, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. The kind of potatoes that make you wonder why anyone bothers with fries. The vegetables were fresh and perfectly cooked, with just enough bite to remind you they came from an actual garden.
And then there was the Yorkshire pudding. Oh, the Yorkshire pudding. Crisp on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, it was the stuff of dreams. Honestly, I could have eaten a plate of those and called it a day.
The Drinks: Pairing a Roast with Liquid Joy
A good roast deserves a good drink, and Fitzherberts doesn’t disappoint. The fam started with pints of local ale and cider because nothing says “Sunday” like a proper British drink. For those of us nursing a Saturday night hangover or sober, there were also plenty of non alcoholic options, including a homemade lemonade that was equal parts refreshing and nostalgic.
The Atmosphere: Cozy and Familiar
Fitzherberts has the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel at home the moment you walk in. It’s warm and inviting, with wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and the kind of lighting that’s flattering without trying too hard. The staff were friendly and attentive, striking that perfect balance between being helpful and leaving us to enjoy our meal.
The other diners added to the charm. It was a mix of families, couples, and the occasional solo diner tucked away with a book. There’s something heartwarming about seeing people come together over a shared love of good food.
The Family Factor: Why Roasts Are Better Together
Let’s be real: the food was amazing, but the best part of the meal was the company. There’s something about sitting around a table with your family, sharing stories, teasing each other, and arguing over who gets the last roast potato, that makes the experience so special.
For us, the meal was a chance to catch up, reminisce, and (inevitably) relive old arguments about whose turn it is to host Christmas. By the time dessert rolled around, we were laughing so hard the table next to us probably thought we’d been drinking more than just lemonade.
The Dessert: A Sweet Ending
Speaking of dessert, we couldn’t leave without trying Fitzherberts’ puddings. The sticky toffee pudding was a unanimous favorite rich, gooey, and served with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The chocolate brownie came a close second, with its dense, fudgy texture and drizzle of salted caramel sauce. By the time we polished off the last bite, we were officially in a food coma, but it was worth every calorie.
What Makes Fitzherberts Special?
Fitzherberts isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. The food is exceptional, yes, but it’s the little things that set it apart: the friendly staff who make you feel like family, the cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger, and the sense that you’re part of a tradition that goes beyond just eating.
In a world where dining out can sometimes feel rushed or impersonal, Fitzherberts is a reminder of what makes a meal truly memorable. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the people, the place, and the moments you share.
Tips for Visiting Fitzherberts
- Book Ahead: Sunday roasts are popular, and Fitzherberts fills up fast.
- Come Hungry: The portions are generous, so skip breakfast if you can.
- Try the Yorkshire Pudding: Trust me, you won’t regret it.
- Bring the Family: Roasts are better shared, and Fitzherberts is perfect for groups.
- Leave Room for Dessert: The sticky toffee pudding is a must.
Why a Good Roast Matters
In a world that’s constantly moving, there’s something profoundly comforting about sitting down to a proper roast. It’s a meal that forces you to slow down, to savor each bite, and to reconnect with the people around you. Fitzherberts gets that. They don’t just serve food; they create an experience that stays with you long after the plates are cleared.
So if you ever find yourself in Brighton on a Sunday, do yourself a favor and head to Fitzherberts. Bring your family, your friends, or just your appetite, and prepare for a meal that’s equal parts delicious and heartwarming. And don’t forget to order extra gravy, you’ll thank me later.