TOP TABLE Maré by Rafael Cagali: A Michelin star for Hove's hottest new restaurant

Maré by Rafael Cagali

A Michelin star for Hove's hottest new restaurant, Maré, is thoroughly well deserved.

Maré by Rafael Cagali, a chic new fine dining establishment located in Hove, has received its first Michelin star - the first of its kind for the city since the 1970s. The award from the bible of fine dining, the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland, 2026, is all the more extraordinary when you consider that this contemporary neighbourhood restaurant only opened six months ago.

At Maré, Rafael Cagali, the chef-patron behind the brilliant two-star Da Terra in Hackney, London, and his capable head chef, Ewan Waller, take diners on a thrilling journey of global flavours. This is a menu that reflects Cagali's Brazilian-Italian heritage. Translating to 'tide' in Portuguese, Maré's refined culinary offering moves with the rhythm of the seasons and, as such, celebrates produce from across Sussex and the surrounding coastline.

Nestled on the city's busy Church Road, the bijou space features a neutral, no-fuss interior. Think soft lighting, buttery wall colours and accents of slate grey and light wood. Bright pops of colour can instead be found in the carefully curated artworks by Brazilian artists that hang throughout the dining room, as well as in the artistic plate arrangements. For instance, feast your eyes on the Salt-Baked Beetroot with Mackerel and Red Lobster Rice with Ox Tongue, best accompanied by a glass of Margaux. As for the mouth-watering desserts, the Olive Oil Sponge with Mayan Chocolate and the Choux Bun with Fig Leaf Ice Cream are worth fending off your greedy dining partner with a spoon.

There's also a £90 per person tasting menu, in which Waller and the team will choose a selection of showcase dishes for you. Other options include the set lunch menu, £55 pp, which will have taste buds dancing to a Brazilian Samba in no time. Or for the ultimate in discretion, why not book the private dining room at the rear of the restaurant? Accommodating up to 14 guests, it is the perfect spot to host an intimate lunch or a relaxed corporate gathering, all just moments from the sea.

Commenting on the accolade, Cagali said: “I’m incredibly proud of the whole team for this recognition. From the beginning, Maré has been about thoughtful cooking and creating a place that feels genuinely special for our community. To be acknowledged by Michelin in our first year, and to see Brighton & Hove recognised in this way, means a great deal to all of us.” As for the city's insatiable gourmands, we are just grateful that the stars have aligned to bring us a top-class restaurant with serious clout.

Maré, 60 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FP