Brusco

Tucked into Hove, Brusco is an intimate vermouth bar devoted to the easy elegance of Italian aperitivo culture.

The mood is softly sophisticated and unmistakably cosy, with shelves that whisper of rare Campari selections and artisanal vermouths. Here, bitterness and botanicals meet Sussex freshness, and aperitivo hour is treated as an art form rather than a prelude.

The kitchen keeps step with seasonal rhythm and regular updates, channelling Italian spirit through local produce. Nocellara olives and toasted pistachio are pitch-perfect pair for drinks, while their house bread pairs perfectly with something else: Brusco nduja rosemary butter.

Heartier moments lean into meatballs di brusco with pomodoro and parmigiano reggiano, or a sussex beetroot risotto brightened by wild garlic and hazelnut. To finish, think poached rhubarb with vermouth, mascarpone and amaretti crumb, or a sorbet kissed with marigold and sea salt.

Designed for comfort and welcome, even for larger groups, Brusco invites guests to settle in. Come for the aperitivo, stay for the stories, and let the evening find its own rhythm.