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Best restaurants in Chichester

Chichester is the charming and quaint city in West Sussex that offers a great place for shopping, sightseeing, and most importantly, eating. Beyond exploring the galleries and cathedral in the centre, you can also check out the surrounding areas, much of which sits within the South Downs National Park. Learn some history, soak up the breathtaking views, and then head to one of the best restaurants in Chichester to end your day on a high.

Updated on 04 July 2022

Think cobbled streets, bunting sprawled across the high street, and picturesque views across the harbour - idyllic, right? Well, Chichester is a pretty spectacular spot in the south of West Sussex. This Roman cathedral city is full of history, and combines a quaint centre with a plethora of shops, parks perfect for a leisurely stroll, and a waterside location to create somewhere that offers something for everyone. Of course, we think the key to any good city is the range of restaurants on hand, and it doesn’t let us down there either. We’ve scoured the area for our favourite places to eat in Chichester, and have found some first class venues that range between anything from classic British to rustic Spanish tapas.

It may not be somewhere inundated with Michelin stars or celebrity chefs, but there’s still plenty of reason to pay this city a visit. Due to its location between the south coast and rural countryside, Chichester benefits from fresh, locally sourced ingredients from both the land and sea. Expect waterside restaurants in Chichester Harbour that are serving up locally caught seafood, and countryside eateries that benefit from local farms.

One of the area’s hotspots is The Goodwood Estate, that’s largely known for its racing events like the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, but you can also find a couple of restaurants that are worth checking out whilst you’re there. Many ingredients are sourced or foraged from the estate, including livestock that’s been raised on the farm - which runs as one of the only self-sustaining organic farms in Europe.

The best restaurants in Chichester aren’t hard to find when you know where to look, so check out our list below to find out for yourself exactly what this tranquil spot has in store.

Santorini

Santorini

14 Southgate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1ES

If you’re after a big fat Greek blow out, then Santorini might be just the place for you. This family run restaurant has gained a reputation for its authentic flavours, generous portion sizes, and warm hospitality - and all for good reason too.

£30 - £49
Greek
Billy’s on the Beach

Billy’s on the Beach

Bracklesham Lane, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 8JH

This seaside restaurant on the West Sussex coastline is a firm favourite with families, dog walkers, and water sports fans. Take in the breathtaking views and tuck into anything from moules frites to a ploughman’s sandwich.

£30 - £49
British
The Barn Little London

The Barn Little London

The Barn Little London, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1PL

This quirky spot is described as the ‘Narnia of Chichester’, being tucked away in the city centre with a secret courtyard full of individual chalets for a totally unique dining experience. Expect a menu full of plenty of local, seasonal ingredients like Goodwood meat, chalkstream trout and Ashling Park wine.

Under £30
British
Farmer Butcher Chef

Farmer Butcher Chef

The Goodwood Hotel, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0QB

Farmer, Butcher, Chef showcases meat that has been reared on the farm, with a menu that has been designed around what cuts are available from the butcher, ensuring nothing is wasted. Expect classic British flavours that change with the seasons, and a large selection of fine wines from around the world.

£30 - £49
Purchases

Purchases

31 North Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1LY

Purchases is the super chic restaurant and bar on North Street that serves the best of British ingredients executed with finesse. Settle into the plush seating indoors or head out to the terrace that is sun drenched by day and alive with fairy lights by night.

£50 - £79
British
Bistro
The Lemongrass Chichester

The Lemongrass Chichester

5-6 Pancras Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 7SJ

If you’re after a good Thai in Chichester city centre, then The Lemongrass is a no brainer. Lending itself as the perfect spot for intimate date nights or group dinners with friends, you can tuck into authentic Thai dishes like prawn pad thai or tom yum - a popular hot and spicy soup.

£30 - £49
Thai
Crown & Anchor

Crown & Anchor

Dell Quay Road, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7EE

You’ll be hard pushed to find a better pub location than Crown & Anchor, with this waterside pub offering stunning views from Dell Quay Marina over Chichester Harbour. Tuck into local seasonal seafood and plenty of classic British dishes, all of which are perfectly paired with something from the carefully curated wine list.

£30 - £49
British
Viento De Levante

Viento De Levante

Victoria Court, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 7LT

Viento De Levante brings a small slice of Spain to Chichester, with this rustic tapas restaurant tucked away down the backstreets of the city centre. There’s salsa dancing, live music and VERY generous portions.

£30 - £49
Spanish
The Horse and Groom - Chichester

The Horse and Groom - Chichester

East Ashling, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 9AX

Located on the edge of the South Downs National Park, The Horse and Groom takes pride of place as the area's local pub where it’s been for over 200 years. Here you’ll find classic dishes that have been prepared with fresh, local ingredients and skillfully executed by the team of talented chefs.

£50 - £79
British
Thyme and Chillies

Thyme and Chillies

Thyme and Chillies Black Horse, Chichester, PO20 7EH

Thyme & Chillies offers authentic Indian cuisine throughout the day, from tiffin lunches to curries and snacks for dinner. If you want to try a bit of everything, go for the thali and get stuck into a selection of small plates and breads.

£30 - £49
Indian
The Kennels

The Kennels

Kennel Hill, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0PN

The Kennels takes its food seriously, with seasonal produce sourced and foraged from the Goodwood Estate wherever possible. The service is immaculate, the interior is timeless and sophisticated, and the wine list is second to none - this is a real showstopper of a restaurant.

Over £80
British
The George Eartham

The George Eartham

Eartham, West Sussex, PO18 0LT

If you had to picture a quintessentially British pub, it would probably look a little something like The George at Eartham. Whilst this is technically located on the outskirts of Chichester, it’s only a short drive from the centre, and simply too good to leave off this list. All of the food is worth shouting about, but we’d recommend booking in for a roast when you get the chance.

Under £30
British
International
Crab & Lobster

Crab & Lobster

Mill Lane, Sidlesham, Sidlesham, West Sussex, PO20 7NB

Located just outside the city centre, Crab & Lobster brings local seafood to this picturesque setting, where you can dine on the likes of Selsey crab or the ever changing catch of the day. With it’s relaxed style and first class service, it’s the perfect hideaway for indulging.

£30 - £49
Gastropub
Cassons Restaurant & Bar

Cassons Restaurant & Bar

Arundel Road, Tangmere, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0DU

If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, then Cassons is the fine dining restaurant ready to help you make it a night to remember. Opt for the seasonal tasting menu with as many as nine courses, or choose from the a la carte if you’re looking for a little more control in your ordering.

£30 - £49
French
Reina Kitchen

Reina Kitchen

11/12 Market Road, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1JW

Reina is an ideal spot for catching up with friends over some sharing plates, with this Turkish restaurant serving up favourites like hot and cold mezzes, kebabs and salads. The chefs combine local produce with traditional Turkish herbs and spices imported from organic farms in Northern Turkey, to create this authentic experience in the heart of Chichester.

£30 - £49
Turkish

Already eaten your way through Chichester and looking to explore the south coast even further? Head west and you’ll find yourself in Portsmouth, the city known for its naval base, football presence, and designer shopping outlet, Gunwharf Quays. But we think the food makes it worth a visit too, as this seaside location is jam packed with restaurants that offer something for every occasion, no matter the cuisine, style or budget. Whether you’re after a pizza and Negroni for a casual date night, or a tasting menu for special occasions, it’s got you covered with its selection of independent restaurants. If it’s location that’s dictating your dinner, you can find options all across the island, including restaurants in central Southsea, Old Portsmouth, and even along the seafront. Take a look at our list and discover the best restaurants in Portsmouth for yourself.

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