A new take on Surf & Turf; dining review by editor Kris Thomas
Burger & Lobster was launched in 2011 in London by four school friends. They set out to open a restaurant “focusing on perfecting the craft of just one or two main ingredients”. They now have nine restaurants in London, others overseas and with their first new UK opening in eight years, Burger & Lobster has just arrived in Brighton.
Tucked away at the end of Market Street in the Lanes, the restaurant is low-lit with , sophisticated forest green and burgundy colours giving a warm and welcoming feel. The stylish, art-deco inspired décor including smoked-glass mirrors suits the theme of the dining experience which the brand states is, “quality and simplicity”. Our server, Grace was friendly and efficient and the team were happy to chat through the menu and make suggestions to guide our choices. We loved the mocktails and the elegant bar area showcases a good selection of spirits as well as beer and wine.
Aside from their three “Originals” – Classic 8oz Burger, Steamed or Grilled Lobster and The Lobster Roll – the menu includes steak, pasta, salads, oysters (don’t miss the glass iced-oyster display tank) as well as a selection of starters, kids meals and desserts.
To start we chose the lobster croquettes (so moreish!) crunchy on the outside and filled with an indulgent cheesy lobster/prawn mix and also crispy calamari served with chilli, lemon aioli.
Our main course burgers were excellent, simply served with skinny fries and dips, We chose; smashed Wagyu Burger – juicy with creamy mac sauce and American cheese; a Classic original – cooked medium with great flavour; a smashed plant burger – crispy and slightly spicy with creamy avocado and a B&L Combo (pictured left) – steamed lobster served with signature lemon and garlic butter plus a 5oz burger. A great choice for those that want to try both!
As Lobster newbies we were pleased to be shown how to crack the claw and use the tools supplied to extract the succulent meat. Burger & Lobster use wild-caught lobsters flown in from Nova Scotia, Canada, The lobster meat was surprisingly delicately flavoured (not too salty) and beautifully tender, the lemon and garlic butter sauce was a perfect accompaniment.
There’s always room for dessert, right? Everything we tried was excellent but special mention must go to the ice-cream sandwich, French toast stuffed with ice-cream, rich brownie bites and a popcorn topping – super sweet and standing to attention in it’s own bespoke holder! Wowzers.
Overall our evening was thoroughly enjoyable, enhanced by the stylish environment and excellent friendly service.
A Burger & Lobster first, the restaurant have launched a brunch menu, with several exclusive dishes for Brighton diners only. They also offer a loyalty card for regular visitors and diners can support a choice of charities via a token scheme.
Call 01273 254 063 or menus/book at: burgerandlobster.com
Open 7 days at 15 Market Street, Brighton BN1 1HH.
