The story
Light at Towner brings a Scandinavian-inspired approach to contemporary dining in Eastbourne. The kitchen sits inside Towner Eastbourne, an art institution marking its centenary where the shoreline meets the South Downs. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the park grounds while the adjacent roof terrace captures sea breezes and afternoon light. Guests choose from lunchtime small plates or weekend brunch formats designed for unhurried meals.
The contemporary kitchen leans toward balanced vegetable-forward dishes rather than heavy meats. A recent highlight features a Green Goddess salad built around roasted broccoli and sweet sugar peas. This restrained cooking style earned the team one AA Rosette for culinary excellence. Diners navigate the selection through pre-theatre intervals or flexible tasting portions that adapt to weekday schedules.
Afternoon cocktails transition smoothly into evening wine flights as the terrace fills with local residents. The space operates without rigid formalities, allowing visitors to wander between gallery exhibitions and their tables. Private functions occasionally claim the lower floor for exclusive cultural evenings. Every service runs on a straightforward schedule that prioritises fresh ingredients over theatrical presentation.
Recognition
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