For a vibrant and alternative Christmas gathering in Brighton, try Indian restaurant Mowgli. Positioned between the independent shops and restaurants of bohemian Dukes Lane, it offers a mix of charming spaces for hire, as well as the option for a full venue takeover.
All-company parties might favour exclusive hire, which covers the main dining room and mezzanine floor. A stunning space, the decor feels natural and earthy, with a twirling tree at the centre and fairylights strung around the space. For smaller groups, the semi private dining option is the most casual and can span drinks and nibbles at the bar or a large table. Finally, the private dining room gives your gang some privacy and a sense of exclusivity.
Mowgli's menu and concept takes its cue from the fresh, bright flavours of Indian home cooking, inspired by tiffin boxes clattering across the table and plenty of dishes made for sharing. The team welcome group dining all year round and have prepared a set-price feasting menu to make ordering easier, which works well for Christmas, too.
The Feasting Menu begins with a welcome glass of bubbles and a selection of yoghurt chat bombs; little bites that set the zingy tone. Guests then choose fenugreek kissed fries, gunpowder chicken or Himalayan cheese toast, followed by two curries and rice. An ice-cream cone rounds things off, with coconut, mango sorbet, salted caramel or vanilla to choose from.
For a bigger festive spread, The Grand Table can be ordered in pairs. It also starts with a glass of champagne and yoghurt chat bombs, before a choice of Angry Bird, Himalayan cheese toast or fenugreek fries. Three curries follow, accompanied by rice and roti, so there is ample opportunity to pass dishes around and try everything. Dessert is either two Mowgli Chocolate Brownies or a mango sorbet ice-cream cone, while each pair also receives a bottle of house wine or four Estrella beers.