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Moonrakers Restaurant in Alfriston professes to have no connection to the Bond movie by the same name, but is actually based on a rather exciting legend involving smugglers, moonlit nights and a pond. Even if that doesn't tickle your curiosity, you ought to simply head there for some really delicious modern British cooking in a lovely atmospheric inn overlooking the famous Tye and the Cathedral of the South Downs. The dining rooms with their beamed ceilings are suitable for private parties and events and the terrace offers some stunning views.

Locally sourced, organic and seasonal ingredients come together under the able hands of Chef Ross Pavey and the creations are suitably praiseworthy. An elaborate dinner there could start with Guinea fowl, smoked pigeon and ham hock terrine with truffle marshmallow, followed by roast haunch of venison with beetroot gratin and ending with dark chocolate mocha tart. The wine selection features local Sussex sparklers alongside French classics and New World favourites along with some really interesting selections from smaller vineyards.

Housed in Deans Place Hotel - a picturesque country house in the charming Sussex village of Alfriston - Harcourts Restaurant offers a warm welcome after a country walk through the glorious South Downs. The restaurant's tranquil setting, warm hospitality - complete with a real log fire in the colder months - and a splendid modern British menu combine to make it the quintessential country restaurant.
 
The menus change every month to reflect seasonal ingredients, with dishes designed to reflect the best of Sussex's local produce. The chef's specials also change on a daily basis, and the two AA Rosettes awarded to the hotel for its dining are a testament to the restaurant's consistently high standards. Tasty starters such as homemade smoked haddock and salmon fishcake or potted rabbit whet the appetite for main courses such as pink roasted rump of lamb with shepherd's pie, confit of duck leg or grilled local skate wing.

Desserts of baked egg custard tart and apple pannacotta round off the meal beautifully. Alternatively guests can linger on to enjoy freshly brewed tea or coffee with homemade petit fours.