Copyright © 2026 Discover. All rights reserved

All views, information or opinions expressed in Discover Brighton are solely those of individuals involved and do not represent the opinions of any entity whatsoever, including the businesses mentioned within this publication and those to which are affected.

30 May, 2023

Award-Winning Authentic Mexican Restaurant
Words by Samantha Harman

There’s nothing like the bold flavours of Mexico to tantalise your tastebuds, with the vibrant colours and tequila based drinks to get you in the party spirit. Discover editor visited Halisco on Preston Street in Brighton for the first time and wasn’t disappointed

If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Brighton, Halisco is the perfect spot for you. Located in a small and traditional-looking restaurant, it’s a family-run business that offers a warm and upbeat atmosphere. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to contemporary Mexico, with the vibrant colors, personalised artwork and decor making you feel right at home.

The menu is unique, with a range of Mexican inspired snacks, small plates and tacos to choose from. Unlike other Mexican establishments, the menu isn’t offering burritos and the like. Carefully curated small plates are the order of the day and perfect for sharing. But what stood out to me the most was their impressive selection of margaritas – nine in total. I tried the melon and honey flavors, and both were absolutely delicious. The melon margarita was refreshing and had a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, while the honey margarita was smooth and had a subtle sweetness that wasn’t overpowering.

To start off my meal, I ordered the pineapple salsa with chips. The salsa was fresh and had a hint of chilli and sweetness from the pineapple, which paired perfectly with the home made tortilla chips. Next, I tried the crispy sea bass fillet, which was cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside, and tender and juicy on the inside. The dish was served with burnt corn, red peppers and tamarind which added an extra dimension of flavor.

The highlight of my meal was definitely the soft shell crab tacos. The tacos were packed with flavor, and the crab was cooked perfectly, with a crispy texture and tender meat. They were served with a side of homemade sriracha, guacamole and nori mayo, which added a freshness to the dish.

Overall, I had an amazing experience at Halisco. The food was delicious, and the margaritas were a definite highlight. The small and traditional restaurant added to the charm of the experience, and the family-run aspect made it feel like I was visiting a friend’s home. The energy and passion of the brothers who run this place is evident, I would definitely recommend Halisco to anyone looking for a taste of unique Mexican cuisine in Brighton.

@Haliscobrighton

64 Preston Street, Brighton, BN1 2HE / 01273 326 563

Follow us:

More from Discover Brighton:

24th CINECITY Brighton Film Festival

24th CINECITY Brighton Film Festival

Adventures in world cinema: 24th CINECITY Brighton Film Festival 6-15 Nov 2026   Brighton’s annual celebration of cinema and the big screen experience features the very best in international cinema with a diverse programme of premieres and previews, a showcase...

Billy Murphy: Dinosaurs and Daydreams

Dinosaurs and Daydreams

Billy Murphy Turns Art Gallery Into a 90s Kid's Bedroom for Dinosaurs and Daydreams   Billy Murphy brings a brings a playful, poignant solo show about nostalgia and adulthood to Gloucester Road, 10-15 November 2026 Kaos Projects presents Dinosaurs and...

Kew Wakehurst wins Bloom Awards

Kew Wakehurst wins Bloom Awards

Kew Wakehurst wins at South & South East in Bloom Awards after first-ever entry    Kew Wakehurst has been named Best Heritage Park or Garden at the South & South East in Bloom awards, held at RHS Garden Wisley, after entering the competition for the...

Infected Blood community in Brighton

Infected Blood community in Brighton

Drop-in event for the Infected Blood community in Brighton Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) is holding an informal drop-in event in Brighton on Thursday 15 October 2026, from 12.30pm The session offers a chance to meet IBCA staff and find out more...