East Sussex eatery’s pride at being named one of the Best Local Restaurants 2026

The Union Rye, East Street, Rye, says its 'focus has always been on cooking great food with the best local ingredients’.

It was placed at number 23 out of 100 top restaurants.

Reviews show diners love its delicious and innovative modern British dishes and the atmosphere of its historic pub setting. People praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Restaurant manager James Robinson said: "Being recognised as one of the Good Food Guide's 100 Best Local Restaurants, and to be placed 23rd nationally, is something we're incredibly proud of.

"As a small independent restaurant in Rye, it's especially rewarding because this recognition reflects the support of our local community and everyone who chooses to dine with us."

He added: "We don't chase trends or awards – our focus has always been on cooking great food with the best local ingredients we can find, working closely with the fantastic farmers, fishermen and producers around us, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where people genuinely enjoy spending time.

"We think that consistency, attention to detail and a passionate team who care deeply about what they do every day are what have brought us to this point. We're hugely grateful to our staff, our suppliers and our customers for making achievements like this possible."

A Good Food Guide spokesperson said: "The Best Local Restaurant awards celebrate the community driven restaurants that offer brilliant value for money and top-quality cooking in a relaxed, convivial setting.

"In recent years it has propelled independent stars such as Bavette in Horsforth and Lucky Lychee in Winchester into the national spotlight."

They added:  "In a year of rapidly rising costs for hospitality, this year’s list reflects the proliferation of micro restaurants and multistrand business models. While 10% of entrants squeeze in 20 or fewer guests, more than 25% of businesses in the list rely on additional income from trading as delis, wine shops or cafés."

Chloë Hamilton, head of reviews and listings at the Good Food Guide, said: ‘In the face of adversity, creativity has flourished in unusual and unlikely places. It has been hugely rewarding to see how these tiny operations are offering outstanding quality in a way that so clearly strikes a chord with the local crowd. Arrive with an open mind and a good appetite and you’ll be brilliantly rewarded.’

Five East Sussex eateries have been named in a list of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants 2026 by the Good Food Guide.

The five East Sussex eateries praised were: The Union Rye, East Street, Rye; Brusco, Montpelier Place, Brighton; Amari, Baker St, Brighton; Namo, Ship Street, Brighton; and Tonka, Marine Parade, Hastings Old Town.