Al Rouche is a family-run Lebanese restaurant in central Brighton, serving up everything from hot and cold mezze platters to smoky mixed grills and braised meat dishes. If you're craving some proper Lebanese home cooking, you won't find many better options in Brighton.
The restaurant itself is situated on Preston Street, just off the main stretch of Western Road and a short walk from popular Brighton hotspots like Churchill Square and the sea front. That makes it easy to get to from anywhere in Brighton, and from further afield if you're arriving in the city by train or by bus.
The interiors are pleasant, with natural wood floors and timber ceiling giving the restaurant a homely vibe. Tables are reasonably spaced and the restaurant feels bright and airy.
The menu kicks off with hot and cold mezze dishes like falafel, fatayer (deep-fried spinach pastries), foul maudamas (fava beans with tomato, garlic and tahini), and kalaje jibne (Lebanese breads stuffed with halloumi). You might find the tricky bit is deciding what to order, given the huge amount of choice on offer - fortunately, Al Rouche has lots of mixed mezze platters available so you can have a taste of various things without having to choose for yourself.
There are mixed grills, kebabs and more for mains, as well as a variety of braised dishes and casseroles. Specials include the likes of Ablameh - aubergine cooked with minced lamb, onions, tomatoes, herbs and spices - kabsa prawns cooked with tomato and Lebanese spices, and kibbeh - baked ground meat with crushed wheat, stuffed with minced meat, onions, herbs and pine nuts. Most of the mains are served with rice and salad on the side, making them substantial meals at reasonable prices.
Takeaway is available too for those who want to eat at home.