The story
Maré serves modern Brazilian cuisine in Brighton, anchored by founder Rafael Cagali and his partner Charlie Lee on Church Road. Cagali trained across Europe and London after switching from economics to hospitality, eventually earning two Michelin stars at his previous venue, Da Terra. His protégé Ewan Waller now commands the pass, translating that rigorous training into daily service. The kitchen sources regional Sussex produce while following the seasonal rhythm implied by the restaurant’s Portuguese name.
The menu moves through small bites, shared plates, and mains designed for sharing rather than individual plating. Guests might encounter fried market oysters dressed with a cumari pepper emulsion or a torched Sussex mackerel paired with rhubarb. Heavier selections like the Freedown Hills picanha with chimichurri and the British veal chop cotoletta anchor the dinner service. Even the dessert plate balances regional ingredients with subtle Brazilian influences, featuring guava crème caramel or a tiramisu choux finished with coffee ice cream.
The ground floor accommodates roughly thirty-eight diners around a central bar counter and communal tables. This layout supports the relaxed approach highlighted by the restaurant’s recent Readers Recommend pick from The Good Food Guide. Sommelier Jake Garstang curates an eclectic wine list that runs alongside house cocktails. A private room at the rear provides a separate area for groups seeking a quieter corner of the room.
Recognition
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