The Royal Sovereign: Roasts Review
As every Brightonian knows, Preston Street has no shortage of restaurants ready to satisfy any international craving you can throw at it – but I’d never considered it a destination for a Sunday roast… until now. And if the Royal Sovereign hasn’t made it onto your must try list yet, it’s time to fix that. Tucked halfway up “restaurant street” and now headed up by Luke Ramsey, formerly of The Winkle and his business parter Rob McGain, this unassuming spot came highly recommended – and is quietly turning out one of the most satisfying roasts in the city.
The vibe is exactly what you want on a Sunday: relaxed, informal and genuinely welcoming. Whether you’re tucked into the cosy bar, soaking up sunshine in the beautiful beer garden, or claiming a front row pavement seat for a bit of people watching with a tipple in hand, it just works. And while roasts across the city can be hit or miss, the Royal Sovereign’s offering is definitely a hit.
Portions are huge in the best possible way and not just the cooked to perfection Yorkies. I went for the pork belly, which genuinely melted like butter; the kind of slow cooked perfection that makes you stop mid-sentence. My dining companion chose the chicken: an absolute giant of a portion, beautifully cooked and served with generous seasonal veg including tenderstem broccoli, orange roasted carrots and crispy roast potatoes that tasted amazing rather than filler. If you want to go even bigger, there are tasty sides to add, the cauliflower cheese was the cheesiest I’ve ever come across (top points for that). There’s also a three roast option and a vegetarian offering I’ve heard great things about. If you’ve got a smaller appetite, just ask – the team are more than happy to tailor a plate to suit.
After a mighty feast, we admitted defeat. However, Luke wasn’t having that and rustled up a plate of his legendary frickles, usually reserved for the varied and interesting weekday Sando menu and they were every bit as addictive as promised. And speaking of the weekday menu… think Po’ Boys, Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks and lobster rolls. Yes, really.
If you’re after hearty, home cooked food in a laidback setting, the Royal Sovereign deserves a firm place on your must try list. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention, but absolutely earns it.
If you’re after hearty, home-cooked food in a laidback setting, the Royal Sovereign deserves a firm place on your must try list. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention, but absolutely earns it. Big portions, big flavour, zero fuss – the Royal Sovereign’s is your new Sunday roast essential.
