The Better Half, Hove Place: what to order and when to go
A former Red Lion on a side street off the seafront, known for its Sunday roast, fresh burgers and a proper local feel.
By Only Brighton Editorial
Tucked down Hove Place, a side street just off the seafront, The Better Half is the sort of pub people find once and then keep for themselves. The pub's own line is "A pebble's throw from Hove seafront. A million miles from ordinary." It is a fair summary. You will find it at 1 Hove Place, BN3 2RG.
A bit of history
The building was formerly the Red Lion. Restaurants Brighton calls it one of Hove's oldest pubs, revamped with classic pub furnishings and a modern twist, and says the name nods to Hove as the better half of the city. We will not argue.
Simon Stern and his wife Helen have run it for 11 years, and the agent Fleurets says they completely reinvented the business. Top 50 Gastropubs notes it was a national finalist at the Great British Pub Awards in 2016.
One thing worth knowing: Brighton and Hove News reported in July 2026 that the freehold business was up for sale for just over £1 million, as the owners prepare to retire. So ring ahead before you make a special trip.
The room
The open-plan bar seats 60 and there is a courtyard for another 20. First Table lists it as dog friendly and wheelchair accessible, with live music and vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Charity quizzes are part of the pub's own pitch.
What to order
- Sunday roast: the signature. Restaurants Brighton's Hove pubs guide says roasts are a big deal here. The pub's page lists a choice of four meats and two vegetarian options, with children's portions at £8. Reviewers on Tripadvisor say to book, and one advised pre-ordering the pigs in blankets, which ran out on their visit.
- The burger: Restaurants Brighton says the patties are minced fresh daily from prime rib of beef, with the pub making its own buns and pickles.
- A pint or something else: the pub's page lists craft beers and local ales, including Unbarred, Brewdog Punk IPA and Bedlam Golden Ale, plus wine and a cocktail menu. A reviewer also praised the non-alcoholic beer choice.
Older reviews mention small plates, game pie and potted mackerel, but menus change, so check the current one before you set your heart on anything.
When to go
According to the pub's own website, opening hours are:
- Monday: closed
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 5pm to 11pm
- Thursday: noon to 11pm
- Friday and Saturday: noon to midnight
- Sunday: noon to 8:30pm
Tripadvisor shows Wednesday opening at noon, so a quick check is sensible. Sunday lunch is the busiest slot, so book. Midweek is the move for a quieter pint and a proper meal.
Prices and booking
Tripadvisor puts it in the ££ to £££ band. Deliveroo's delivery menu has meal deals from £10.95 to £17, such as a burger, fries and a beer for £17, though in-pub prices may differ. Tables can be booked through First Table, by phone on 01273 983655, or by email to the pub's bookings address listed on its website.
For after
Keep it simple and walk to the seafront, a pebble's throw away, as the pub likes to say. A stroll along the Hove prom is the best digestif going, and it costs nothing.
Sources and more detail: the pub's website, Restaurants Brighton, Brighton and Hove News and First Table.
