It’s well-known that independent venues in Brighton thrive thanks to the city's community that prizes individuality and supporting local ventures. Adding to the ranks of independent restaurants is Mange Tout, a cosy little French bistro on Trafalgar Street that has been open since 2009 and upheld its status as a smash hit ever since.
Cheery staff – who are often French – are on hand to guide you through the menu which runs from brunch every day through to dinner served Thursday-Saturday. The latter is written up by hand on a blackboard in true Gallic style. While plates change with the seasons, example dishes might include Burgundy snails in garlic butter with sourdough or red mullet soup with a punchy rouille and cheese croutons. Mains often feature a classic steak frites or confit duck as well as less obvious choices such as crispy truffle gnocchi with mushrooms, beetroot puree and a pistou. Generous size sides include bowls of chips, sauteed vegetables and salads.
For dessert, there are things such as bread and butter pudding – an ode to the restaurant’s British home – chocolate brownies, lemon tart, and a classic crème brulee.
Elsewhere, the brunch menu spans all the classics and comes accompanied by locally roasted coffee and sustainably sourced teas. Plates include eggs on toast and full fry ups and well as some French spins on classics.
Throughout the year, look out for special menus which offer you a taste of the kitchen’s signature style. Think a four-course tasting menu in honour of St Martin’s Day in November, that might include a wild goose terrine; a Czech broth of roasted vegetables; rolled wild goose paupiette with pancetta dumplings, caramelised apple and jus; and an apple, pear and almond strudel for dessert.
As you might expect, the wine list is far-reaching and accomplished, with staff on hand to make solid pairing suggestions should you need them.