Reviews of the Hungry Monk Restaurant, Sussex

The mains were an unequivocal hit: ......I had crisp breast of Norfolk duckling which was a swooning pleasure of melting flesh and crunchiness, with a small serving of cassoulet spiced up with the addition of chorizo. The Sussex lamb was pink and juicy and had an ace sauce; a hint of a Moroccan lift from harissa, good chicken stock, subtly laced with the sweetness of marsala and balsamic vinegar. I wouldn’t normally bother to mention the vegetables, but they were fantastic. A big serving of spinach - “Excellent… excellent… Oh man!” (from my fellow luncher). Perfect roast potatoes. And the celeriac purée was so gorgeous (tasting as though a vat of butter and cream had been added, when it was only the vegetable itself and milk) that we felt compelled to order another portion.

The Times 2006

A 14th-century property built for monks, the place is full of character with intimate spaces, beams and open fireplaces, plus period art with an ecclesiastical theme. Three lounges are furnished with comfy sofas and a host of antiques, including and original juke box*. The kind of food you'd expect at a good dinner party in the country, cooked to French classical principles but drawing on wider European influences.

AA Restaurant Guide 2005

*this is a Symphonium -a rare Victorian Musicbox