Review: 64 Degrees

https://64degrees.co.uk/
53 Meeting House Lane, Brighton, BN1 1HB

"Innovative, eclectic small-plate dining in a sleek, industrial-style space with an open kitchen"

If I had a pound for every time I've stared longingly into the windows of 64 Degrees whilst wandering through the Lanes, or read the FAQs on their website (sadly not a joke) then I would be rich enough to eat at 64 Degrees (I just wanted to say that for comedy value - actually wasn't too expensive). Having wanted to eat there since moving to Brighton in May last year, mine and my boyfriend's anniversary was the perfect excuse.

When we first walked in for our 18:00 booking, it was totally empty which panicked me a little (had it dropped in popularity, was the food not as good, would we spend the whole evening being stared at by 5 waitresses etc etc). However, as is so often the case, I did not need to worry because within about 15 seconds the place was full with 20 hungry people salivating over the menus. Or maybe that was just me... Anyway, the best thing about being keen beans was that we got to choose our seats - we went for sitting at the end of the pass where you can watch the chefs in action but because we were on the corner, still felt quite cosy. The downside of this is that my boyfriend didn't seem to be able to finish a sentence as he gawped at the amazing food being prepared in front of us.

The idea of 64 Degrees, if you don't know, is that all their dishes are small(ish) sharing plates - they recommend 5-6 for two people. We went for 6, which was the perfect amount and left us with room for 2 desserts (YUM). There's probably not too much point me going through every dish in detail as one of the best things about the restaurant is that they change the menu all the time. Don't worry though, from my experience you can't really go wrong. Our favourites were the Kalbi duck, cloudy ear, green pepper (posh version of duck pancakes from the Chinese takeaway) and the Chalk stream trout, PSB, lemon (unbelievably nice). Everything was simple and uncomplicated but AMAZING.

I was so into the 6 main courses we had that I totally forgot about dessert - when I remembered that I was allowed to eat even more food I was pretty happy. For dessert we had a a concoction of chocolate brownie, avocado puree and coffee ice cream - this was so good it brought out the worst in both of us as we fought to eat the most. I then (cleverly) ordered something which I knew I would have to myself due to EXTREME sourness - the rum bear jelly. Think a jelly baby covered in sherbet with a touch of rum - perfect for someone like me who could eat a whole lemon (probably).

Our total bill (inc. service charge) was around £112 - for a bottle of wine, 6 courses and 2 desserts, which I think is reasonable for the quality of food you're getting. I like that they tell you when booking the time that they need the table back by - saying this we didn't feel rushed out at all. However, the main thing we kept talking about afterwards was how they manage to combine incredible food with a completely unpretentious atmosphere, so you feel totally relaxed while you're there. This is a restaurant which I would recommend for any special occasion, or if you just fancy eating some nice food while wearing your trainers.