The Mirabelle at The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne

Did you know that The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne is home to one of the mostly highly rated restaurants in the UK? Tucked within the stunning Victorian building, the Mirabelle boasts an accolade of awards including two AA rosettes and four RAC dining awards. This intimate dining experience really is something to behold. In a town better known for fish and chips out of a bag Mirabelle offers fine dining on par with Michelin Star. I was thrilled to be invited to sample their exquisite menu on a sunny September’s evening and can now officially confirm that Mirabelle lives up to every aspect of its reputation. From start to finish food, drink and service not only met, but surpassed our expectations.

Setting

Entering the Grand Hotel feels like stepping back in time, in all the right ways. The grand façade, the smell of polished brass, the tinkling piano from the lounge bar and the first class service takes this place to another level. I was reminded of special meals with my grandparents as a child, bringing a warm nostalgia. The Mirabelle is small enough to feel intimate yet still succeeds in offering privacy to diners.

Menu

Head chef, Alex Burtenshaw joined The Grand at the end of 2023 having already created a name for himself in several award winning hotels across the south coast. He has curated a menu which blends classic dishes with a modern European twist whist embracing regional produce. Food is served impeccably with vibrant colours and intricate presentation making it hard to tuck in! But tuck in we did. And it was divine.

Our meal opened with wild Argentinian red prawns with chimichurri (£12.95) for me and seafood sweetcorn succotash (£14) for my hubby. Both were incredible. I’m pretty sure my prawns were the best I’ve ever tasted. For our mains we chose duck breast with a hot honey glaze (£38) and fillet of veal (£36). Every mouthful of my duck was a sensory delight. The crisp glaze, creamy dauphinoise, zesty citrus and sharp rhubarb. I didn’t want it to end. Fortunately we still had one course to go which allowed me to indulge in the most delicious, rich chocolate dessert whilst my husband worked his way through a cheeseboard. All accompanied by a bottle of Argentinian Merlot. One of the most enjoyable meals I have ever had.

The Mirabelle is an exceptional place. For me, it is the type of restaurant we’d save for very special occasions. The staff are professional but also friendly and down to earth. Despite the vibe being more high end than we’re used to we did not feel out of place, quite the opposite. This is fine dining with a warm welcome. A first class experience is more than the food and reputation, but the Mirabelle has it all.

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