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8 Shortlisted Restaurants In Horsham That Locals Love!

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Horsham is a town in West Sussex, England, known for its rich history, beautiful parks and gardens, and scenic location. It boasts a number of cultural attractions, including the Horsham Museum and Art Gallery, the Horsham Park and Gardens, and the Roffey Millennium Greenway. These provide a great opportunity to explore the town’s history and natural beauty while taking a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.

And that’s not even mentioning their thriving food scene.

This town is a great destination for foodies looking to sample a variety of culinary delights, from traditional English pub fare to international cuisine.

One of the standout features of Horsham is its picturesque market square, which is home to a weekly farmers’ market selling fresh, locally-grown produce. There are also numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the town centre that serve up delicious meals made with these high-quality ingredients.

The town thrives with a boisterous amount of restaurants to choose from. So we at Wandering Our World have decided to help you out by letting you know the restaurants in Horsham that we think you have to visit. Bon appetit!

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The Best Restaurants In Horsham: Food Worth Waiting For!

1. Restaurant Interlude

A Michelin-starred restaurant that serves seasonal, locally-sourced dishes in a historic estate setting with breathtaking gardens.

The Restaurant Interlude is a highly coveted restaurant within the expansive 240-acre Leonardslee Gardens. They opened in the Leondardslee House in 2018, and shortly after under the guidance and expertise of Chef Jean Delport, they were awarded their first Michelin Star.

Their food is a well-catered experience on its own and well-deserving of the multitude of praise it receives. Each ingredient is sourced organically from Interlude’s very own gardens, as well as ethical farms around the local area. If this speaks for anything, it’s the impeccable quality of their food.

Their menu is seasonal, obviously fluctuating with the ebb and flow of available ingredients. And fortunately for indecisive eaters, the menu is set, displaying the best of the local ingredients in a creative, contemporary way that’s both flavourful and artisanal.

And while fancy restaurants have a reputation for small servings, we can assure you, with a whopping 19-courses per season, you won’t be going hungry.

All of this is found within the walls of a historic estate, and the decor reflects an era straight out of Netflix’s Bridgerton (which we’re absolutely living for). It’s white cloth and black tie so that you can live out your wildest Pride and Prejudice fantasies (ladies, you know what we’re talking about).

After dinner, take a romantic stroll across the acres of the woodland garden before settling down for a small taste of the expansive wine list.

We dare you to find something better!

  • Opening Hours: 6 pm to 10 pm Thurs – Sun; Closed Mon-Wed
  • Location: Leonardslee Gardens, Brighton Rd
Chef adding drizzle to fine dining plate
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Kuzmin

2. Zeytin

Zeytin is an authentic Turkish restaurant that serves traditional dishes in a lively and welcoming atmosphere with an outdoor patio.

Nestled in the charming town of Horsham, Zeytin is the town’s worst-kept secret serving authentic Turkish cuisine. From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll be transported to a world of vibrant colours, rich flavours, and warm hospitality.

Opened in 2019, they staved off the Global Pandemic with poise and came out the other side victorious. Quickly climbing the ranks to become one of the best restaurants in Horsham, the atmosphere delivers something out of this world and keeps the crowds coming back for more.

Looking at the simple exterior, you wouldn’t be judged for assuming the bustling interior was an old-fashioned local pub. But the reality is a Turkish Delight (see what we did there?) that’s tucked across the threshold, spilling out to a wide patio where you can live, love and laugh your way through a divine meal with friends in the open air.

Chef Ercan Yuzey is responsible for the cuisine, serving a rotating menu that the restaurant has described as “ambitious”. But the truth is, the meals on offer are deeply embedded in old family traditions, with generational recipes inspiring contemporary dishes that you’re bound to fall in love with.

As with any restaurant that serves Mezze, we always recommend a platter to share. But with the dapples of street food and authentic dinner delights, you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.

For libations, Turkish coffee and imported wines can make for quite the palate cleanser, so be sure to ask your friendly wait staff for their highest recommendation to pair with your meal.

  • Opening Hours: 12 pm to 11:30 pm Mon-Sat; 12 pm to 11 pm Sun
  • Location: 3 Denne Rd, Horsham
Selection of Turkish dishes
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Yulia Gusterina

3. Akash Indian Restaurant

Akash is an authentic Indian restaurant serving a wide variety of classic Indian dishes including vegetarian options, with a welcoming atmosphere and excellent service.

If you’re in the mood for delicious, authentic Indian cuisine, look no further than Akash Indian Restaurant. Despite its unassuming venue, this restaurant has been voted by Sussex Express as the best place in Horsham for a curry, and it’s easy to see why.

The decor is bold, sleek and modern, with intricate details creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The smells of exotic spices and the sounds of traditional music add a sense of authenticity, and the immaculate service from their staff pays homage to the excellent hospitality found here.

The skilled chefs use the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create an array of delicious dishes. The menu offers a wide variety of classic Indian curries, as well as tandoori chicken, lamb vindaloo, and other divine options. There are also plenty of vegetarian options available.

In fact, the menu dedicates entire sections to wonderful vegan and vegetarian cuisine, which is unsurprisingly just as aromatic and flavourful as the meat-lover options.

We won’t blame you for feeling overwhelmed; the menu is monstrously detailed! But rest assured that no matter what dish you choose, it will be made with passion and care.

Overall, Akash is a hidden gem in Horsham that offers a delicious and authentic taste of India. Whether you’re a curry connoisseur or new to Indian cuisine, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience India’s rich flavours and culture.

  • Opening Hours: 5 pm to 10 pm Daily
  • Location: 66 East St, Horsham
Assorted curries on table
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Roxiller

4. Buenos Aries Argentine Steakhouse

A vibrant and lively restaurant that serves a wide variety of classic Argentine dishes, in a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere with an extensive wine list featuring premium Argentinian wines.

Buenos Aries Argentine Steakhouse is a vibrant and lively restaurant that offers a taste of Argentina through its high-quality food and authentic atmosphere.

While not the first restaurant of its kind, they’re the first Argentinian eatery in Horsham. Perhaps that’s why locals and tourists alike can’t seem to get enough.

The decor is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a neutral colour palette creating a sophisticated yet welcoming space for diners. Yet, despite how it might seem, it’s casual, and the friendly staff are more than happy to accommodate groups for a merry exchange over divine food.

The kitchen is staffed by expert chefs who use traditional cooking techniques and the freshest ingredients to create an array of delicious and flavourful dishes.

The menu at Buenos Aries features a wide variety of succulent steaks, other classic Argentine dishes, and vegetarian options, ensuring that there is something to suit every taste.

Argentinian cuisine is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes that are influenced by a variety of cultures, including Italian, Spanish, and indigenous South American flavours. So you can expect nothing less than an excellent experience here.

Of course, we urge you to dine on their steaks; it is a steakhouse, after all! They come in an irresistible selection of cuts, with your choice of sauce to drizzle on for good measure.

In addition to the food, the restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list featuring a range of premium reds, whites, and sparkling wines from Argentina and beyond.

  • Opening Hours: 5 pm to 10 pm Mon – Thurs; 12 pm to 11 pm Fri – Sun
  • Location: 5 Market Square, Horsham
beef steak display
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/lisovskaya

5. The Chequers Inn

A Michelin Guide gastropub located in Horsham that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, outdoor patio and a wide variety of dishes and craft beers.

The Chequers Inn is a Michelin Guide gastropub located in the heart of Horsham. From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll feel right at home in the warm and welcoming atmosphere. With comfortable furnishings, an unforgettable menu, and friendly staff ready to make your visit a memorable one.

The venue is minimalist and cosy, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. However, in warmer months, the patio offers a great spot to enjoy your meal al fresco, surrounded by green leaves and breathing in that fresh summer air.

The menu is responsible for their acclaimed acknowledgement in the Michelin Guide, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a wide variety of dishes, including classic pub fare, globally-inspired dishes, and vegetarian options, making it a great choice for diners with different tastes and dietary preferences.

The dishes are full of flavour and have a surprisingly refined nature to them. Maybe, to us, the idea of a Duck Fat Confit belongs in the likes of blue-collar restaurants. But at Chequers, as long as you’re dressed (shirt, shoes and all), you’re a welcome guest in their eyes.

They boast an extensive drinks menu featuring a range of craft beers, wines, and cocktails to complement your meal. But, of course, they wouldn’t be a pub without it, and we like the idea of a sneaky sundowner in one of the best restaurants in Horsham.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch with friends or a romantic dinner for two, The Chequers Inn is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy some of the best cuisine that Horsham has to offer.

  • Opening Hours: 11:30 am to 4 pm, 6 pm to 11 pm Mon-Sat; 12 pm to 5 pm Sun
  • Location: Rowhook Rd, Horsham
beer with food
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Drazen Zigic

6. La Piazetta

An authentic Italian restaurant in Horsham offering fresh and delicious dishes, a cosy atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff.

La Piazetta is a cosy and inviting Italian restaurant offering a true taste of Italy through its authentic and mouthwatering cuisine.

Their focus is on creating classic Italian dishes using the freshest ingredients (both imported and local) and traditional cooking techniques. The menu features a wide selection of dishes, including pasta, pizza, meat and seafood entrees, and vegetarian options, ensuring that there is something to suit every taste.

Start your meal with a selection of antipasti, such as bruschetta or portabello or try one of the restaurant’s signature appetisers, the Antipasti Misto.

Follow through with one of their classic pasta dishes, including spaghetti bolognese, which is undoubtedly a crowd favourite. Or indulge in a wood-fired pizza topped with a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients.

For heftier meals, their Secondi menu is packed with succulent steaks, veal and seafood dishes that embody a sense of Sicilian flavour.

Of course, no Italian meal would be complete without a selection of delectable desserts, and La Piazetta does not disappoint. Tiramisu (obviously), Lemon Sorbet and more are ripe for the picking.

The venue is simple yet elegant, with modest furnishings and warm colours creating a welcoming atmosphere that transports you to Italy’s winding streets and picturesque piazzas.

The staff, a friendly group of locals, are welcoming and friendly. They act as go-to guides in times of uncertainty and offer incredible service and knowledgeable wine recommendations to pair with your meal.

From the delicious and authentic cuisine to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, La Piazetta is sure to become a favourite dining destination in Horsham.

  • Opening Hours: 12 pm to 10 pm Daily
  • Location: La Piazzetta 5, Bishopric, Horsham
Wine and pizza display
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Foxys_Forest_Manufacture

7. Cafe By The Lake

A quaint cafe on the banks of Sumner’s Pond with a beautiful viewing deck, lots of tasty treats and summer evenings packed with activity.

Cafe By The Lake is a charming and rustic cafe on the banks of the picturesque Sumner’s Pond in Horsham. The decor is beautifully rustic, with wooden accents giving the cafe the feel of a cosy lakeside cabin.

In the summer months, the cafe expands its seating to a beautiful outdoor patio, where guests can dine al fresco while taking in the stunning views of the water. The deck is a great spot to relax and unwind, whether you’re enjoying a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal with friends and family.

The cafe’s menu features a variety of delicious dishes, including sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. They also offer a selection of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and speciality cocktails.

In addition to their regular menu, they occasionally host feature nights where the dish of the day can range from a good old Fish and Chips to Burgers. Their drink selection also changes, offering local ales and a lovely selection of wine to help wind down your day.

The staff at Cafe by the Lake are friendly and welcoming and always happy to accommodate any special requests or dietary needs. They are passionate about providing a great dining experience for their guests. They are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a wonderful time.

So if you’re looking to escape the urban landscape and find somewhere a bit more in touch with nature, we can’t recommend Cafe by the Lake highly enough. After all, there’s a reason this place is one of the most popular restaurants in Horsham.

  • Opening Hours: 9 am to 4 pm Daily
  • Location: Chapel Rd, Barns Green, Horsham
Female hands with bowl of pumpkin soup
Photo for illustrative purposes only. iStock.com/thesomegirl

8. The Crabtree

A scenic countryside detour, with sprawling gardens, a conservatory and a menu packed with seasonal European dishes that far outdo your regular pub grub.

The Crabtree is a charming country pub in the heart of the Horsham countryside. Upon arriving, you’ll be struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere of the pub, with its quaint exterior and well-manicured gardens.

As you step inside, you’ll find yourself in the cosy main dining room, with a simple and rustic charm and warm lighting. The space is filled with comfortable seating and a welcoming fireplace, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal.

But it’s the food that’s really made The Crabtree a place worth visiting and gave the guys down at Michelin enough of a motive to add them to the 2022 Michelin Guide.

The menu at The Crabtree is a true highlight, featuring a range of seasonal, European-style dishes that are expertly prepared by the talented kitchen team. So whether you’re in the mood for an artisanal cheeseburger, a delicate fish dish, or a touch of game, there’s something for everyone on the menu.

And, of course, no meal at The Crabtree would be complete without a pint of locally brewed ale or a glass of fine wine.

But the real catch at The Crabtree is the beautiful beer garden and wood-beamed conservatory. These outdoor spaces offer the perfect place to enjoy a meal in the open air, with plenty of seating and greenery to soak up the sun. In the warmer months, the beer garden is a true oasis, with its lush lawn and countryside views.

Overall, The Crabtree is a must-visit destination for foodies and pub-goers alike. Its charming atmosphere, delicious menu, and beautiful outdoor spaces make it a true gem in the heart of the Horsham countryside and easily one of the best restaurants in Horsham for dining outside in style.

  • Opening Hours: 12 pm to 12 am Mon-Sat; 12 pm to 9 pm Sun
  • Location: Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham
beer with friends outdoors
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/William87

Our Favourite Restaurants In Horsham: Final Thoughts

Horsham is a truly delightful destination for foodies, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fine dining to casual pub fare, Horsham has something for everyone.

The town is home to a number of Michelin-starred and Guide-worthy restaurants, as well as charming cafes, bakeries, and artisanal food shops.

And its prime position in the Sussex countryside makes it the perfect place to explore local farms and markets and discover the best of the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients.

And when all is said and done, after enjoying the scenery and doing all those good things tourists should do, nothing sits better than the idea of an incredible meal at one of our favourite restaurants in Horsham.

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