"There’s plenty of originality on offer in the selection of small plates at this simple yet admirably inventive bistro, nothing feels borrowed or copied from elsewhere with such uniquely put-together dishes. Blackboard menus give the place an intimate, welcoming feel, that is only enhanced by the knowledgeable and personable service team."

- Michelin guide

A chef in Dill Kitchen wearing a Dill t-shirt standing proudly

customers of Dill arriving and being welcomed

Our Story

Dill is the brainchild of Chef Dan Cropper, celebrating casual dining with a focus on sharing dishes, seasonal ingredients and bold flavours. Our ever-changing menu highlights the best local produce in a relaxed and welcoming setting, complemented by an exceptional selection of wines and local brews.

wonderful potted plant arrangement made by the flower shop next door to Dill

We are very fortunate to have incredible cheesemakers here in the U.K.

This week:
Blue clouds
Burwash rose
Golden cross
Tunworth
Charmer
With pickled walnut & Quince

@balcombedairy
@traditionalcheesedairy
@goldencross
@hampshirecheeseco
@sussexcharmer

Mother’s Day at Dill
We’re opening our doors on a Sunday to celebrate Mother’s Day with a special sharing menu. Wild garlic scones with whipped goat’s curd, braised rabbit with nettle dumplings, whole grilled plaice with a prawn and mussel hot pot, and an afternoon tea-style dessert selection featuring rhubarb & elderflower éclairs and lemon meringue pie.
Bookings are now open. Spaces are limited.
#MothersDay #SundayLunch #SeasonalDining #LewesFood

Mackerel pâté, mussel piperade, cod pastrami, cured trout, pickled herring, and caviar aioli—served alongside Star 69 from Gutters & Stars at Dill.

#curedfish #pickledfish #smokedfish #seafood #britishfood #foodheritage #seasonaleating #locallysourced #eatlocal #mackerel #mussels #cod #trout #herring #caviar #naturalwine #lowintervention #guttersandstars #lewes
@visit.lewes
@gutterstarswine

New wine list is on 🍷

We've gone deep into the cellar for this one, starting with Zorah, 2021, from Armenia.

#naturalwine #lowintervention #winelist #armenianwine #zorahwines #orangewine #terroir #winebar #drinkbetter #vino #winelover #lewes

No fuss, just good food. Thoughtful cooking and quality ingredients, nothing more, nothing less. The Michelin Bib Gourmand at the door is a quiet reminder that, honest food speaks for itself.

#Lewes #SussexFood #EastSussex #MichelinGuide #BibGourmand #SussexEats #LewesFood #LocalFlavours #SussexDining #EatLocal

@michelinbib_gourmand_papi
@michelinguide
@visit.lewes
@visitsussex

Dill is open from 6pm tonight.

Head to www.dilllewes.co.uk to check out our menu and book a table. Walk-ins welcome.

#Lewes #SussexFood #NaturalWine #SeasonalCooking #DillLewes

Our New Website is Live!

We’ve had a small upgrade. You can now find us at www.dilllewes.co.uk, complete with a new booking system. You’ll be able to make reservations, enquire about private hire, view our ever-changing menu, and stay up to date with what’s happening at Dill.

Take a look and let us know what you think. See you soon!

#Lewes #EastSussex #DillLewes #SussexFood #LocalEats #Foodie #FoodLovers #SussexLife #EatLocal #SeasonalFood #FarmToTable #SussexRestaurants #FoodAndDrink #SupportLocal #UKDining #BritishFood

Dill is almost full for lunch and dinner today. As always, we’ve kept a table for walk-ins—first come, first served!

#lewes #sussex #lewesfood #sussexfood #eatlocal #seasonalfood #supportlocal #farmtotable #localproduce #sussexlife #leweshighstreet #foodie #eastsussex #naturalwine #sussexwine #lewespub #sustainablefood #slowfood

Dill re-opens this evening at 6pm.
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We open the doors to the new season at Dill

A huge thank you to all of our suppliers
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#Lewes #Sussex #NaturalWine #WineBar #FoodandDrink #EatLocal #DrinkLocal #SussexFood #SeasonalEating #supportlocal
@flintowlbakery
@flintwines
@burgundywinesltd
@namayasaifarm
@calcotfarmproduce
@chefs_farms
@mcbseafoods
#visitlewes

New Opening Hours at Dill

From 20th February until Easter, our opening hours will be:

🍽 Thursday – Friday: Dinner from 6pm, last reservation at 9pm
🍽 Saturday: Lunch from 12pm – 3pm & Dinner from 6pm, last reservation at 9pm

We’ll be closed Sunday – Wednesday.

We look forward to welcoming you all back to Dill.

#DillLewes #SeasonalCooking #LocalIngredients #SussexDining #LewesFood

Dill is back! 🌿✨

After a short winter hibernation, we’re opening our doors again. Starting with a one-off Valentine’s dinner tomorrow. If you’ve booked, we’ll see you then. 💛

Then, from 20th February, we’re back properly, with bookings now open. In the meantime, we’ve been busy—freshly painted walls, a refitted bathroom, and a whole lot of dusting to get everything just right.

We also want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to Theo Sanchez, who will no longer be with us at Dill. His creativity, incredible drinks, and the maximum effort he’s put into Dill over the last few years have been truly appreciated. We wish him all the best in his future projects.

This year is shaping up to be a good one—with some incredible guest dinners, special events, and more on the horizon. Keep an eye out. 👀

See you soon.

#DillLewes #SeasonalFood #GuestChef #LocalDining #LewesFood #SussexEats #FoodLover

We are thrilled to announce that Dill has been nominated for the Best Sussex Restaurant category in the BRAVO Awards 2025! We are honoured to be listed alongside many outstanding establishments in Sussex. If you've enjoyed your experience with us, we would greatly appreciate your support. Please cast your vote at the BRAVO Awards website. Voting is open from 4th February to 14th March 2025. Thank you for your continued support!

Shout out to all the Lewes restaurants in the awards
@no34_lewes
@squisitolewes
@lewes_depot
@chaulasrestaurant
@visit.lewes
@visitsussex
#BRAVO2025 #BestSussexRestaurant #VoteForDill #SussexDining #BrightonFoodScene #lewes

Dill Reopens

We’re back. Dill reopens for a special Valentine’s dinner next week, and while we’re now fully booked for the 14th, the full reopening isn’t far behind.

If you’ve missed Dill during our winter hibernation, we’ll be open as usual from 20th February.

📅 Valentine’s Dinner – Fully Booked
📅 Full Reopening – 20th February

#DillRestaurant #SeasonalFood #Wine #ValentinesDinner #lewes #sussexdining #eastsussex

One night only… ❤️

We’re opening early on 14th February for a special Valentine’s Night service. Expect a carefully crafted set menu, great wine, and all the good stuff we’ve been working on behind the scenes.

We only have 2 tables left, secure your spot now and let us cook you something special. See you soon.

we will the be open as usaul from 20th February

#ValentinesDinner #DillRestaurant #SeasonalDining #NaturalWine #LocalFlavours #Lewes #LewesFood #LewesEats #SussexFood #SussexDining #EatLocal #SupportLocal

2024 at Dill: A Year to Remember

What a year it’s been! From sharing incredible wines and beers to hosting unforgettable moments, 2024 has been nothing short of magical.

Thank You
To our incredible suppliers, brewers, winemakers, and, of course, you, our wonderful customers—thank you for your passion, support, and for making Dill a true community. Whether discovering hidden gems or raising a glass with friends, your enthusiasm has made every moment special.

What’s Next?
2025 promises to be even better! We’ve got exciting plans brewing (pun intended)—think new events, collaborations, and surprises we can’t wait to share.

Here’s to a fantastic year gone by and an even brighter one ahead. Thank you for being part of the journey—cheers to you all!

With love,
The Dill Team
#Lewes #EastSussex #Restaurant #Wine #Winelover #Winetasting #Winetime #Winestagram #Foodie #FoodAndWine #WineBar #WineLife #InstaWine #WineOClock #WineLovers #WineLovers #WineLovers #WineLovers

🎄 As Dill Begins Its Winter Hibernation 🎄

After our final service of the year, we raise a glass to everyone who makes Dill what it is—our talented staff, loyal customers, and dedicated suppliers. Your passion and support have been at the heart of everything we do this year, and we’re so thankful.

Exciting new developments are on the horizon, and we can’t wait to share them with you in the New Year.

Cheers to you all, and wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a bright New Year!

@chefs_farms
@namayasaifarm
@abyssbrewing
@beakbrewery
@lostandfound.brewery
@calcotfarmproduce
@burgundwinesltd
@graftwine
@gutterstarswine
@bulbco
@theleweslist

#HappyChristmas #SeasonalDining #SustainableFood #DillLewes #WinterPause #SussexFood #FarmToTable #LocalProducers #EnglishHeritage #ModernDining
#SupportLocal

Last Chance to Dine at Dill Before Winter Break

This weekend marks your final chance to join us at Dill before we close for our winter break.

We’ll be taking a break from 23rd December to 17th February, so don’t miss your opportunity to experience Dill this year. Book your table now via the link in our bio.

#LastChance #DillLewes #SeasonalDining #FineDining #WinterFood #Lewes #SussexDining #EatLocal #GourmetFood #DinnerPlans

Venison at Dill

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The centrepiece of a meal at Dill, our venison platter highlights the best of winter dining. Venison is a seasonal wild game, typically harvested in the UK from late autumn through winter. Known for its lean texture and rich flavour, venison is not only a winter staple but also a sustainable source of protein, as wild deer populations are responsibly managed to maintain ecological balance.

At Dill, our venison platter features roast haunch, venison faggots, braised venison shoulder crumble, and a celeriac and spelt risotto. These carefully prepared accompaniments enhance the natural depth of flavour in the venison and highlight the best of seasonal and locally inspired ingredients.

#VenisonSeason #WildFood #SustainableDining #WinterFood #SeasonalDining #FineDining #DillLewes #LocalFlavours #GameMeat #SussexDining #FarmToTable #SeasonalIngredients #GameSeason #EatLocal #GourmetFood #CulinaryExperience #FoodieLife #DinnerInspiration #BritishGame #FoodPhotography #ChefLife

Wild Beer x Dill

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At Dill, we embrace the rich tradition of wild beers, offering selections from esteemed breweries like Mills Brewing, Crossover Blendery , and Little earth projects. These breweries are at the forefront of a UK movement returning to spontaneous fermentation, a method that relies on natural, ambient yeasts and bacteria for fermentation, foregoing the controlled use of cultivated brewers' yeast, temperature and big hop additions.

Mills Brewing exemplifies this approach by allowing wild microorganisms present in their environment to ferment their beers, resulting in complex and unique flavours that reflect their local terroir. This method harks back to traditional brewing practices, offering a distinct contrast to modern techniques that utilising specific yeast strains for predictable outcomes.

This revival of spontaneous fermentation is gaining momentum among UK breweries, with pioneers like Burning Sky (mixed ferm) little earth projects in Suffolk, Duration Brewing leading the charge.
By embracing these traditional methods, they produce beers that are inherently tied to their surroundings, offering drinkers a taste of the local landscape.

At Dill, we are proud to feature these wild beers, each bottle telling a story of place and tradition. Whether enjoyed alongside our seasonal dishes or on their own, they provide a unique and flavourful experience that celebrates the art of spontaneous fermentation.

Thanks to
@thebeertalking
Mills Brewing Co.
@burningskybeer
Duration Brewing
@littleearthproject
@crossoverblendery
@elgoodswisbech
#WildBeer #MillsBrewing #CrossoverBlendery #Elgood #CraftBeer #SpontaneousFermentation #DillLewes #SussexDining #LocalFlavours

Classic Cooking

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At Dill, Our approach honours tradition while reimagining flavours and ingredients to create something uniquely ours.

#DillLewes #SeasonalDining #InnovativeCooking #ClassicFlavours #SussexDining #FineDining #EatLocal #ModernCuisine

Hay to You

Hay liquor infused with thyme + rosemary

At Dill, we’re always experimenting, and our drinks are no exception. Introducing Hay to You—a liqueur crafted from a delicate infusion of hay, thyme, and rosemary.

Hay to you captures the essence of the fields and forests, offering herbal, earthy notes.

#DillLewes #ExperimentalDrinks #HayToYou #CraftLiqueur #FineDining #SeasonalFlavours #SussexDining #Lewes #CreativeCocktails #LocalIngredients

Sunday Lunch at Dill

Sundays are for slowing down and enjoying good food in great company. Our Sunday lunch menu is crafted with care, featuring seasonal ingredients and dishes designed to be shared.

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#SundayLunch #Lewes #SeasonalDining #FineDining #LocalFlavours #DillLewes #SussexDining #EatLocal

Sea buckthorn + carrot ice cream

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A perfect end to your meal. Sea buckthorn and carrot ice cream, paired with our liquorice panna cotta.

#Lewes #SeasonalDesserts #FineDining #DillLewes #LocalFlavours #SeaBuckthorn #Liquorice #DessertLovers #SussexDining #EatLocal

Mazapé 2021

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A stunning collaboration between Gallina de Piel Wines and Juan Jesús Méndez of Bodegas Viñátigo. This white blend from Tenerife's Mazapé vineyard combines Gual and Vijariego Blanco grapes, showcasing the unique terroir of the Canary Islands

Gallina de Piel Wines was founded by David Seijas, a former sommelier at the world-renowned El Bulli restaurant. The project is driven by a passion for storytelling through wine, combining expert craftsmanship with unique vineyards and collaborations across Spain.

The name "Gallina de Piel" (which translates to "goosebumps") reflects the project's mission: to create wines that evoke emotion and leave a lasting impression. Each bottle is an expression of the local terroir, blending tradition with a touch of innovation.

Gallina de Piel partners with skilled winemakers and iconic vineyards in regions such as the Canary Islands, Catalonia, and Galicia. By working with indigenous grape varieties and respecting local traditions, the project highlights the diversity and character of Spain's winemaking heritage.

@davidseijaswine
@liberty_wines
@bodegasvinatigo

#GallinadePielWines #Mazapé2021 #TenerifeWines #CanaryIslandsTerroir #Gual #VijariegoBlanco #SpanishWines #WineCollaboration #BodegasViñátigo #WineLovers #FineWine #WineTasting #WhiteWine #VolcanicSoilWines #SommelierSelection #DavidSeijas #Vineyard #SingleVineyardWine #Terroir #GourmetWine #WinePairing #winelover #WineEnthusiast #WineOfTheDay

This week has been one to remember. We hosted the final Ooway event of the year, launched our festive Christmas menu, and were honoured to be voted Best Restaurant in Lewes by the readers of @theleweslist.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved—our guests, collaborators, and the incredible independent businesses of Lewes that make this town so special.

Here’s to a season of great food, community, and continued inspiration.

#Lewes #BestRestaurant #SeasonalDining #IndependentBusiness #FestiveSeason #DillLewes #OowayEvents #SussexDining #CommunityMatters

@theswaninn_lewes
@taithcoffee
@tinklersmusic
@abyssbrewing
@pestle_mortar_lewes
@wickle.co.uk
@wearesoulfit

Stoutzilla Imperial Stout by UnBarred Brewery

As the seasons turn, we turn to warming comforts. Stoutzilla delivers with bold notes of rich chocolate, roasted coffee, and a smooth, velvety finish. A heavyweight brew, perfect for the cooler months. Now pouring at Dill.

#Lewes #UnBarredBrewery #CraftBeer #Stoutzilla #ImperialStout #BeerLovers #LocalBrews #SeasonalDrinks
@unbarredbrewery

Christmas at Dill

Next week marks the release of our festive-inspired menu, crafted to celebrate the season with sharing and connection at its heart.

Choose from meat, fish, or vegetarian options, and we’ll create a selection of dishes using the finest seasonal ingredients. Optional extras like canapés and a cheese selection are also available for those looking to elevate their experience.

We still have a few spots available during the festive period so please email or make an enquiry through table agent.

Join us this December for a menu that brings together the flavours of the season in true Dill style.

#Lewes #SeasonalDining #ChristmasMenu #FestiveSeason #FineDining #DillLewes #SussexDining #LocalFlavours #SeasonalCooking

Nama Yasai x Dill

From day one at Dill, we’ve had the privilege of working with Robin and Ikuko at Nama Yasai, whose dedication to growing exceptional Japanese and European vegetables is unmatched. Their produce, cultivated with care in Sussex, brings unique flavours, textures, and seasonality to our dishes.

Nama Yasai’s philosophy of sustainable farming and respect for nature aligns beautifully with what we strive for at Dill—quality, simplicity, and connection to place. It’s an honour to showcase their incredible work on our menu.

We serve a twist on crudités with Nama Yasai vegetables, a dish that will always be served at Dill, offering reverence to Robin and Ikuko’s hard work and dedication.

#Lewes #NamaYasai #LocalProduce #SustainableFarming #FineDining #SeasonalFood #DillLewes #SussexDining #EatLocal

Tiger Prawn Aguachile, Oyster, passion fruit and jalapeño

Open from 6pm tonight

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Aguachile, a vibrant dish from Mexico's Sinaloa region, celebrates the freshness of seafood with bold flavours of lime, chili, and salt. Originally a simple fisherman’s dish, it has evolved into a refined favourite at Dill.

#Lewes #SeasonalDining #FineDining #Aguachile #SeafoodLovers #GourmetDining #Foodie #LocalFlavors #DillLewes #EatLocal

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Oyster on a bowl of pebbles with brass decorative crab

Contact

Address

Contact

Opening Hours

2 South Street
Lewes, East Sussex

BN7 2BP

Hello@Dilllewes.co.uk

Thursday &

Friday

6:00 pm - 10 pm

Saturday

12.00 - 3.00 pm

6.00 - 10.00 pm

DILL

Our Story

We would love to keep in touch

Address

Contact

Opening Hours

DILL

Our Story

​

We would love to keep in touch

Address

Contact

Opening Hours