The best restaurants in East Saltdean and Telscombe Cliffs Lewes South East

Great shop foods lovely along with staff

Ah, Crocodile Cafe—where Italian cuisine is not just food, but an art form. Quite simply, this is the best Italian I’ve ever eaten, and I say that as someone who’s twirled many a forkful of spaghetti in pursuit of the perfect bite. The food? Bellissimo. Each dish is a masterpiece, prepared with such precision and passion that I suspect Chef Davide and his kitchen team might moonlight as culinary magicians. From the first bite to the last, it’s an orchestra of flavors that leaves you utterly enchanted. The service? Impeccable. Caitlin and Renato run the front of house like a well-rehearsed symphony, balancing warmth, efficiency, and charm in equal measure. They don’t just serve you; they make you feel like you’re the guest of honor at an intimate Italian feast. And the ambiance? Super cozy, with a vibe so inviting it feels like a warm embrace. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you find yourself lingering just to soak in the atmosphere. In short, if you’re anywhere near the area, Crocodile Cafe is not just a recommendation—it’s a requirement. Hats off (and maybe a standing ovation) to the whole team. Bravo!

Service is good but didn't enjoy the food that much. Was really disappointed with the Tom Yum soup.. Tom Yum is supposed to be spicy, but it was served bland.

Superb food at the hidden gem of a restaurant. We have been here before and the food was so good, we tried it again and wasn’t disappointed. Friendly staff, fast service and amazing food all resulted in a wonderful eating experience.

Wow, don't think iv had a nicer breakfast, absolutely perfect!

Staff very friendly and welcoming. Was there for the evening but seems like there is a fab view over the sea from the beer garden. And also an outside seating area to the front of the pub. Parking available. Very convenient for Newhaven (overnight ferry to France)

A very quiet restaurant on a Friday night, sad really as the service & food were excellent. I hope they get busier! Definitely recommend

Lovely meal very tasty all of us had some amazing dishes. Serve very good very helpful.lovely clean restaurant prices very good

If I could give zero stars, I would. This was hands down one of the most unhygienic dining experiences I’ve ever had. First, I found a hair floating in my beer—disgusting. They replaced it on the house, which was the bare minimum. I tried to brush it off and enjoy my meal, which was just okay at best. Then came dessert… and the final straw. A long hair was melted in my ice cream. At this point, my appetite was completely gone. They offered a replacement, but honestly, who would want more after that? I just asked for the bill. When I politely mentioned the two hairs in my food and requested a discount, they grudgingly knocked off a measly 10%. Not exactly a goodwill gesture. Feeling unsatisfied, I later called back to express my disappointment, only to be told they "didn’t want a customer like me" and that the hairs somehow weren’t theirs—as if I planted them myself?! Absolutely appalling attitude and even worse hygiene. Safe to say, I won’t be back. Ever. 🚨 If you value cleanliness and customer service, stay far, far away. 🚨

We have visited the Smugglers for many years in its various forms. We hadn't visited for a while but made a return visit for lunch. The food was very good, the setting warm and comfortable. The service was exceptional, Debby our waitress was very friendly and efficient, we will certainly return in the future.

best curry in saltdean, rottingdean and peacehaven area, food cooked fresh to order that’s why you have to wait about an hour, good value family run takeaway ❤️

Great food, fast and reliable delivery service, staff always super helpful

Great friendly service. Cake was amazing everyone loved it. Would highly recommend.