Foregoing the stereotypical image of Greek restaurants as cosy, wooden-clad tavernas, this bright and modern spot in the heart of Hove offers a fresh spin on Greek cuisine. Using seasonal ingredients to create its contemporary dishes, Nostos aims to offer diners an authentic taste of Greek cooking while taking inspiration from local produce, trends and ideas. The restaurants inception began 20 years ago in Thessaloniki, when head chef Alex and friend Kyriakos had the idea to open a restaurant together. After moving back to the UK, they quickly fell in love with Brighton and Hove’s unique atmosphere as the backdrop to their vision.
The menu features a generous selection of sharing plates, dips, classic and signature dishes. Start with a few small plates for the whole table to tuck into, such as Feta Nests made with crisp filo pastry, Feta, pine and fir tree honey and toasted sesame seeds, and a bao bun-gyros hybrid which sees bao stuffed with slow-cooked pork shoulder, politiki salad, homemade BBQ sauce and sweet potato crisps. Along with moussaka and souvlaki, signature mains include a Greek pasta dish featuring clams, ouzo, chilli, parsley and bottarga, as well as rib-eye steak with mashed lemon-oregano potatoes, mavrodafni sauce and pickled shimeji mushrooms. To finish, sweet dishes include chocolate mousse, caramelised hazelnuts, sponge cake, cocoa-vanilla bourbon, dolce chocolate crumble and tsoureki flavoured ice cream.
The drinks list is geared largely towards wine-drinkers, with an extensive list of bottles sourced largely from Grecian producers. While a range of spirits and Greek-inspired cocktails are perfect for a pre or post-dinner tipple.
Nostos is a relaxed restaurant where everyone’s welcome, from large parties to intimate dates. There is also a kid's menu available for families who fancy an easy meal out that everyone will enjoy.