A special birthday celebration at The Flint House in Brighton was an experience I will cherish for a long time. From the moment we walked through the door, we were greeted by the warmest of welcomes, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. The service was impeccable — attentive yet relaxed, with the staff clearly passionate, guiding us through each dish with enthusiasm and expertise. We opted to sit at the Chef’s table, allowing us to have a front row seat to the talented kitchen team in action.
Our evening began with two refreshing glasses of Ridgeview sparkling wine, a local offering that truly set the scene for the evening. The wine was followed by a delightful Muscadet, crisp and vibrant, offering the perfect balance to the rich flavours that were soon to arrive.
The meal was a journey of taste, with each dish showcasing not only culinary creativity but also the care and precision with which the team at The Flint House approaches their menu. Here’s a closer look at the standouts from our meal:
- House-Made Focaccia with Confit Garlic
The focaccia was soft, pillowy, and perfectly charred, but it was the confit garlic that stole the show. It provided the perfect introduction to the meal, setting the stage for what was to come. - Citrus Cured Salmon with Crispy Skin, Mustard Dressing, Pickled Turnip, and Watercress
This dish was beautifully light. The citrus-cured salmon was delicate and fresh, while the crispy skin added a welcome crunch. The mustard dressing offered a sharp, tangy contrast, balancing the dish perfectly, and the pickled turnip and watercress added just the right amount of zing. - Ham & Cheddar Croquettes with Tarragon Aioli
These croquettes were simply delicious. Each bite was a heavenly explosion of flavour, with the ham and cheddar filling melting seamlessly in our mouths. Paired with the tarragon aioli, the creamy richness was elevated with a touch of herbal brightness. - Crispy Pig Cheek with Burnt Apple and Pickled Red Cabbage
This dish was indulgence on a plate. The crispy pig cheek was rich and tender, while the burnt apple added a smoky sweetness that beautifully balanced the savoury depth of the meat. The pickled red cabbage provided a necessary tang, cutting through the richness with ease.
- BBQ Chicken Thigh with Honey & Chipotle Glaze, Cucumber Pickles
A standout of the evening, this dish was one of our favourites. The chicken thigh was perfectly cooked, with a charred, caramelized exterior and a juicy interior. The honey and chipotle glaze was a beautiful mix of sweet and smoky, and the cucumber pickles offered a refreshing contrast. - Roast Hake with Sweet Leek Agliata and Dill
The hake was cooked to perfection, flaky and tender. The sweet leek agliata complemented the fish beautifully, adding a soft, aromatic quality that paired wonderfully with the subtle dill. It was a light yet satisfying dish, showcasing the delicate flavours of the sea. - Hispi Cabbage with Ogleshield and Truffle Mayonnaise
This side was a delightful surprise. The Hispi cabbage was tender yet still had a satisfying crunch. The Ogleshield cheese brought a creamy, nutty depth, while the truffle mayonnaise added an indulgent richness that made this simple vegetable dish extraordinary. My love affair of Hispi cabbage isn’t showing any signs of disappearing! - Beetroot Salad with Fresh Orange, Goats Cheese, and Balsamic Dressing
This vibrant salad was a celebration of fresh, earthy flavours. The sweetness of the beetroot paired beautifully with the tangy goat’s cheese, and the fresh orange added a citrusy brightness that danced against the balsamic dressing. - Mascarpone Cheesecake with Passion Fruit and Caramelized White Chocolate
To finish, the mascarpone cheesecake was an absolute dream. The silky, creamy cheesecake was perfectly complemented by the sharpness of the passion fruit, and the caramelized white chocolate added a sweet, nutty crunch that was pure indulgence. It was the perfect ending to a flawless meal.
The care and passion that went into each dish was evident in every bite. The flavours were thoughtfully balanced, and the textures harmonised beautifully. Each course was a testament to the exceptional culinary skills at The Flint House, and we felt truly spoiled by the experience.
As we savoured the last bites of dessert, we were reminded that dining out isn’t just about the food — it’s about the experience. The Flint House, with its incredible service, beautiful ambiance, and show-stopping dishes, made this birthday celebration one to be remembered. If you find yourself in Brighton, then I urge you to visit, I know you won’t be disappointed.