In 1975 Mike Garman came back to Brighton after spending 5 years working in restaurants in Italy, Spain and the South of France, observing how to produce Mediterranean-style dishes which combine native produce like olive oil, garlic, aubergines, fresh herbs and peppers with the finest fresh meat & fish.

With this knowledge he decided to open one of the first Mediterranean cuisine restaurants in Brighton's famous Lanes. He acquired a fisherman's cottage which dated back to the 18th century in the reign of George I and set in the heart of Brighton's old fishing village. He then converted it into Il Bistro.

Over the years, a growing reputation for good honest food boosted the restaurants popularity beyond Brighton. And so in response to demand, Mike expanded the restaurant by acquiring the premises next door.

The traditional oak beams were continued into the new property and so helped to maintain the cottage look. There are private dining rooms available for weddings, anniversary parties & business meetings etc with special set menus available on request.

The restaurant is within walking distance from the Royal Pavilion, Conference Centre & the Theatre Royal and is open for pre theatre dining & lunches 7 days a week, and it is still run under the watchful eye of Mike Garman, whether it be dining on the outside heated terrace or inside the restaurant itself.

- Heated alfresco dining -
(Weather permitting)

- Private Function Room -

- All Major Credit Cards Accepted -

- Brighton & Hove City Council Hygiene Rated -