Dear Brighton Chambers members, 

The BRAVOs (Brighton Restaurant Awards Vote Online) have returned, and 2026 marks a momentous milestone: ten years of celebrating the city's vibrant and resilient food and drink scene. To mark this decade of excellence, we would love you to vote for your favourite independents and help champion the local venues that make our community so unique.

Choose Local: Support Brighton’s Independents!

As the awards enter their tenth year, the mission has never been more vital. Under the banner of "Choose Local," this year’s campaign is a rallying cry for the community to support our local independent venues. With the hospitality industry currently facing an exceptionally challenging climate, the BRAVOs encourage residents to keep their money within the local economy and champion the independent businesses that give Brighton, Hove, and Sussex its unique character.

Organised by Brighton Chambers member Restaurants Brighton, the BRAVOs empower the public to vote for their favourite spots across 18 diverse categories, providing a much-needed boost to the hard-working teams behind our local hospitality scene.

Sustainability: Championing the Future

Building on the success of previous years and last year’s 72,911 votes, the BRAVOs are once again placing sustainability front and centre. The University of Brighton continues its proud support of the Sustainable Champions category. This partnership aims to raise the profile of the Sustainability Toolkit initiative, encouraging venues to adopt better practices for people, planet, and profit.

New for 2026: Best Sweets and Treats

This year introduces an exciting new category: Best Sweets and Treats. From artful patisserie and signature desserts to indulgent bakes, artisan pastries, and the city's best gelato, this category celebrates Brighton’s favourite in-house, high-skill indulgences – whether they be sweet or savoury.

Iconic Brighton Artistry

The visual identity of the 10th-anniversary campaign features the stunning work of Brighton-based illustrator Kirsti Davidson. Her vibrant designs bring a fresh, local feel to the awards, capturing the creative essence of the city we call home.

A Message from the Founder

Nick Harvey, founder of Restaurants Brighton, shares:

“Reaching our tenth year is a proud moment for the BRAVOs, and it’s a testament to the incredible quality and resilience of our city's food and drink scene. Over the last decade, we’ve seen the BRAVOS evolve from a simple vote into a powerful way for people to show genuine, heartfelt support for the venues they love.

Our launch last week at The Ironworks Studios was a fantastic reminder of the talent we have here, bringing together fresh faces and established legends alike. The message for 2026 is simple: Choose Local. This isn't just about crowning winners; it’s about recognising the skill, passion, and hard work that defines our community. By voting and dining out, you’re not just filling in a form – you’re actively championing the people who make Brighton and Sussex so unique. We want these awards to be the ultimate reason to get back out there, explore somewhere new, and support the local teams that keep our hospitality scene world-class."

Get Involved

Public voting started on 10th February 2026 and runs for four weeks. Whether you are a regular at a local cafe or a fine-dining enthusiast, this is your chance to make your voice heard and support the hospitality industry.

Key Dates:

Voting Started: 10th February 2026

Voting Ends: 10th March 2026

Winners Announced: 31st March 2026

Please vote here