27 Best Restaurants in Brighton (2023 Guide)

The best restaurants in Brighton showcase the area’s unique flavour in every way. From fun fares to local classics, Brighton’s restaurant scene is sure to tickle your taste buds.

This list highlights the top places to eat in Brighton with something for every taste. Whether you want to enjoy a view while you eat or want an intimate meal at one of the most romantic restaurants in Brighton, we’ve got you covered.

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The Ivy in the Lanes

The Ivy in the Lanes is one of the premier options in the area. It’s among the best restaurants in the centre of Brighton and Hove. With different menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and also weekend brunch, you will have plenty of options for every palate.

The Ivy in the Lanes offers diet-friendly and vegetarian options for their menus and is especially popular on holidays (where they have special holiday-themed menus) and weekends. The brunch is divine and includes tea, several courses of breakfast, and options for mimosas.

meals on plate The Ivy in the Lanes — If you are looking for a fancy time for brunch, this restaurant is the way to go. | Image from theivybrighton

If you're looking for one of the best restaurants in Brighton with classic British afternoon tea, stop by the Ivy in the Lanes and get their mid-afternoon tea service. With three layers of tea goodies, from sandwiches to scones, this is the perfect accompaniment to a pot of English Breakfast Tea.

However, for those who prefer a full meal, we recommend making reservations for dinner. Make sure to order their Shepherd's Pie or Blackened Cod. They are absolutely delicious. Don’t forget to round out the meal with a chocolate bomb for dessert.

The Ivy in the Lanes
51A Ship St, Brighton BN1 1AF, United Kingdom

Etch. by Steven Edwards

Etch. is a fancier restaurant with a tasting menu that changes seasonally. Despite being one of the Michelin Star restaurants in Brighton, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming instead of stuffy.

Although the tasting menu varies, it always matches the local produce available by season to create an authentic experience. Usually, there are about seven courses, with a few smaller bites in between.

British Rose Veal saddle and tongue, BBQ lettuce, Caesar, and Veal sauce Etch by Steven Edwards — It is very interesting that Etch offers different tasting menus to highlight local and British produce. | Image from etchfood

If you want to experience one of Brighton's best restaurants, stop in and ask for the seasonal oyster dish. It’s typically available as a main course. However, you can also order it as an appetiser which will come in a smaller portion.

In addition, the desserts at Etch. are some of the most amazing in the English countryside. With lemon and honey, fresh cantaloupe, and other amazing flavours, these are the perfect way to end your high-end dining experience. But first, make sure you get a reservation at Etch - it can be hard to get into!

Etch. by Steven Edwards
214-216 Church Rd, Hove BN3 2DJ, United Kingdom

The Coal Shed Restaurant (Best for Steak)

Although the flagship location is in London, the Coal Shed Brighton has been a favourite amongst locals and tourists for its excellent steaks and well-done puddings. You will definitely be full after a night at the Coal Shed, and you won't forget the steak.

Steak served with a seasonal sauce and chips on the side The Coal Shed — If you are in the mood for a steak, head on to The Coal Shed, as they offer a variety of steaks that will surely fill in your stomach. | Image from thecoalshed

It's a much more lowkey ambience than many of the other high-end restaurants in town but offers some delicious comfort food and cocktails. On Sundays, the Coal Shed has a full roast and also a sharing menu for the larger groups.

We recommend the steak of the day if you end up at the Coal Shed seeking traditional Brighton food. It doesn't matter what it is because the Coal Shed chefs are masters of steaks. Pair it with an English beer or a Wasabi Martini for a kick. Otherwise, the grilled cauliflower meal is incredible for vegetarians in Brighton and worth every bite.

The Coal Shed Restaurant
8 Boyce's St, Brighton BN1 1AN, United Kingdom

The Salt Room

The Salt Room is the sister restaurant to the Coal Shed and has a very similar vibe and menu. However, it's a little less expensive and has more options than the Coal Shed. So, if you're looking for expert chefs without the high price tag of steak, the Salt Room might be a great choice.

This restaurant specialises in meat but has more fish on the menu. It won an award for being the best restaurant in Brighton for seafood, so you must try their fish specialities.

The daily specials are always freshly caught and cooked to perfection, pairing perfectly with a delightful cocktail menu and also desserts.

outdoor dining The Salt Room — The outdoor setting's inherent natural brightness enhances the dining experience.| Image from thesaltroombrighton

While eating your Gigha Halibut (with baby spinach, artichoke, and autumn truffle) or the catch of the day, you can sit on the balcony and overlook the glorious seas from which the fish was caught. If you want a flavorful starter, go with the mackerel.

The Salt Room is one of the best restaurants in Brighton, with a view thanks to the deck offering a 180° view of the coastline.

The Salt Room
106 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FU, United Kingdom

Plateau

Plateau is another option for fresh, locally sourced small plates of the freshest tastes in the area. The menu changes with the seasons and includes all of the best local meats and vegetables. For example, highlights include pork, duck liver terrine, and tempura broccoli with miso.

Of course, the highlight of Plateau is the unusual and fresh wine-tasting menu. All of the wines at Plateau are naturally sourced, and some come from unusual ingredients. Local wine highlights the menu, followed by locally brewed beers and excellent cocktails.

Whether you go to Plateau for a series of small plates and wine or just to taste the cocktail menu, you won't regret it. It's also less expensive than many other small-plate restaurants on this list.

Plateau
1 Bartholomews, Brighton BN1 1HG, United Kingdom

Bincho Yakitori (Best Restaurant in Brighton for Japanese)

One of the best restaurants in Brighton (approved by many outlets) is Bincho Yakitori which offers an array of street foods on small plates. Whether you have a voracious appetite or come in with something specific in mind, you'll be able to find it at this lovely little restaurant.

Takoyaki with scallops and bacon in skewers drizzled with sauce Bincho Yakitori — Visit Bincho Yakitori to experience Japanese food in Brighton. | Image from binchoyakitori

From sake to sushi, everything at Bincho Yakitori is top-notch. However, the tasting menu is a highlight and gives eaters the perfect amount of food at a reasonable price. You'll be able to try multiple things - everyone at the party will find something they like!

Of course, there are also individual meals, such as a wide variety of sushi rolls. The pork belly and plum wine are a combination not to be missed. So, if you're looking for something a little less British, Bincho Yakitori is the place to go.

Bincho Yakitori
63 Preston St, Brighton BN1 2HE, United Kingdom

64 Degrees

64 Degrees is one of the best restaurants in Brighton near The Lanes and regularly makes the top 100 restaurants in Britain. It's a small restaurant nestled only a few minutes from the Royal Pavilion and other city landmarks.

Although it's hard to find, this restaurant is impossible to forget. It has a rotating tasting menu with new flavours every month. For example, it gives you an excellent sampling of everything from sauteed cantaloupe to poached halibut. The scallop and pineapple dish is also outstanding if you can get it.

This restaurant is never the same, no matter how many times you go.

64 Degrees
53 Meeting House Ln, Brighton BN1 1HB, United Kingdom

Shelter Hall (Best for variety)

Shelter Hall is ideal for a group of friends with different tastes. This casual, laid-back open market has seven different local chefs operating their own kitchens under the same roof. You can get everything from fish and chips to pizza.

So, if you're looking for a healthy dose of Brighton food and culture, Shelter Hall is an excellent choice and should be on your list of must-visits for the area.

breakfast on seafront Shelter Hall — With many great restaurants under one roof, Shelter Hall is one of our top picks in Brighton. | Image from shelterhallmarket

Grab a Neapolitan pizza from Amalfi or a hearty Smashburger from the Patty Guy. In addition, make sure you save room for coffee and macarons from Red Roaster.

In addition to the seven restaurants, there are two wine and cocktail bars within the hall. Can't decide what to get? Then, split up the party and make it a family-style meal! Shelter Hall is home to some of Brighton's best places to eat. Easy going with lots of choices.

Shelter Hall
Kings Road Arches, Shelter Hall, Brighton BN1 1NB, United Kingdom

Petit Pois Restaurant (Best Romantic Restaurant in Brighton)

If you're looking for French food and one of the most romantic restaurants in Brighton, check out Petit Pois. It's an upscale, beautiful eatery perfect for nights out and special events.

Roasted Beef and duck in two separate servings Petit Pois — Petit Pois is a French restaurant situated close to the seaside. | Image from petitpoisbrighton

Petit Pois features dishes such as wild fish bouillabaisse with locally caught fish, braised lamb shank with garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted portobello mushrooms with lentil stuffings. Everything is freshly made by expert chefs and can be catered to any dietary need.

Of course, Petit Pois also features all of the standard French fares, from excellent waitstaff to a stellar wine list. If you plan on eating at this establishment, get a reservation beforehand - it's difficult to get a table on the same day.

Petit Pois Restaurant
70 Ship St, Brighton BN1 1AE, United Kingdom

Moshimo (Best for Cheap Sushi)

While upscale restaurants are excellent for a night out, not everyone can afford to eat at fancy places every night in Brighton.

Instead, it's good to have some more down-to-earth but still delicious choices. Moshimo is one of those. It's a sushi restaurant with all of the perks and low prices.

sushi and teriyaki platters on table Moshimo brighton restaurants best — If you’re craving Japanese, then go for Moshimo! | Image from moshimobrighton

Like any sushi restaurant, you can order sushi by the roll, try a combo, or get one of the daily specials. However, you can be sure that all their fish is caught fresh right off the Brighton coast and that everything they make is as locally sourced as possible.

In addition to over a dozen sushi options, Moshimo offers chicken teriyaki and pork ribs. They have small plates, so you can get a variety of different dishes and try them all. It's easily one of the best restaurants in Brighton for a very affordable price.

Moshimo
Bartholomew Square, Brighton BN1 1JS, United Kingdom

VIP Pizza (Best Italian Restaurant in Brighton)

VIP Pizza stands for Very Italian Pizza, and this little restaurant lives up to its name. It has the relaxed atmosphere of a standard pizzeria with excellent prices, a wide variety of choices, and some of the best pizzas you'll find in the United Kingdom.

VIP Pizza 3 variants with mozzarella cheese and basil leaves — VIP Pizza has the best fire-grilled pizza you can find in Brighton. | Image from vipveryitalianpizza

VIP Pizza is extremely authentic and is family-run. It's not only the best restaurant in Brighton but also one of the best Italian restaurants in the city, making it a hot spot for anyone looking for pasta, pizza, or other warming comfort food.

The menu options are astounding, with delicious Italian pizza and pasta. Some of our favourite choices are the classic Margherita pizza and also their spaghetti and meatballs. You can't go wrong with these classics, especially when finished off with the pistachio torte and gelato for dessert.

VIP Pizza
19 Old Steine, Kemptown, Brighton BN1 1EL, United Kingdom

Giggling Squid

If you're looking for a unique place to eat in Brighton, the Giggling Squid is one of the most popular among locals and tourists. It's part of a small chain with several locations in the UK but serves some of the best Thai food around.

Marketing itself as "Thai food with a personality," the Giggling Squid is housed in an old fisherman's cottage amongst the shops on the Brighton wharf. It's the flagship location for Giggling Squid and serves up iconic Thai dishes with some Brighton flair.

The turmeric sea bass with spiced Christmas greens is a must-try, especially when followed with the once-in-a-lifetime lemon ginger cheesecake. However, if that's not your style, we also loved the glorious glazed duck with veggies topped with fried ginger.

Giggling Squid
11 Market St, Brighton BN1 1HH, United Kingdom

The Walrus (Best Brighton Restaurant for Pub Food)

There are plenty of fancy restaurants and interesting cuisines to be had in Brighton. You have endless options if you're looking for the best restaurants in Brighton that serve good seafood. However, it's sometimes easiest to go for comfort food, and no one serves comfort food like The Walrus, a classic English pub.

Pickled Crudites, Beetroot chervil, carrots, ginger and seaweed for Vegans The Walrus best restaurants in Brighton — Vegans may choose from a selection of plant-based dishes at The Walrus. | Image from thewalrusbrighton

The Walrus is exactly that - a 200-year-old English pub with a labyrinth of dining rooms that lead to a two-story rooftop garden. The place is eclectically decorated and serves everything from classic pub fare to also vegan and vegetarian options.

Several menus include the traditional Sunday roast menu and a classic burger menu. We love their fish and chips. But you can also get a Korean chicken burger, a vegan and "gouda cheese" burger, or bangers and mash all from the same menu (and trust us - they are all equally delicious).

The Walrus
10 Ship St, Brighton BN1 1AD, United Kingdom

Thewitchez Photo Design Cafe

If you're looking for a unique place to look at art, maybe make some art, and eat some delicious food, Thewitchez is the place for you. It's the first photo-design cafe in the United Kingdom and offers more than just a good meal.

burger in alfresco setting Thewitchez Restaurant — Thewitchez serves a mean burger that will satiate your cravings! | Image from custardlube

Thewitchez serves delicious deli and lunch food, such as their incredible Bavarian schnitzel or their Summer Breeze salad. The salad includes pear, goat cheese, rocket, date, walnuts, honey mustard, and balsamic glaze.

In addition to this, Thewitchez consists of a group of passionate designers who wanted to make their office a restaurant. They cook meals and design and sell graphics and photography throughout the building. It's a unique venture and one worth supporting.

Thewitchez Photo Design Cafe
3 Meeting House Ln, Brighton BN1 1HB, United Kingdom

Kindling

Recently included in the 2022 Michelin guide, Kindling has skyrocketed in popularity over the past year. However, the restaurant has been dishing out delicious meals for several years and focuses on three main tenets: the land, the sea, and the fire (of the grill).

Kindling is a completely sustainable restaurant and encourages other restaurants to do the same. The two main chefs only use sustainable ingredients and also source as many as they can locally (for their sea-based ingredients, this is most of them).

Some of the best dishes at Kindling include grilled king oyster mushroom meal and the Longhorn beef burger. However, they have two different menus: a lunch menu of small plates and a dinner menu of full-size entrees. These menus both change every day.

Kindling
69 East St, Brighton BN1 1HQ, United Kingdom

Casalingo

Casalingo is a classic stop for tourists and locals alike and is considered one of the most romantic restaurants in Brighton. With classic Italian food and a low-lit atmosphere, we think it's perfect for a romantic night out.

Casalingo has a unique setup because they offer a regular menu as well as a seasonally rotating tasting menu. If you're only in town once, you have to try the tasting menu. It will give you the perfect taste of everything Casalingo, Italian, and Brighton.

Paired with wine, the tasting menu is surprisingly affordable for the amount of food offered. However, if you'd rather have a regular dish, the antipasto Italiano is one of the best fish dishes we've ever had.

Casalingo
29 Preston St, Brighton BN1 2HP, United Kingdom

The Roundhill Restaurant

The Roundhill Restaurant is a must-stop for plant-based eaters and also anyone interested in trying a new way of eating. Moreover, it offers the best plant-based small plates from locally sourced farms and gardens and creates incredible tastes.

buddha bowl set The Roundhill Pub — Mouthwatering selections from The Roundhill Pub that we love. | Image from theroundhillpub

Open for lunch and dinner every day but Monday and brunch on the weekends, the Roundhill Restaurant showcases the finest of England's farmed goods. Even if you don't think you can eat plant-based food, you will love Roundhill's food.

Some menu favourites include the white pappardelle pasta with mushroom sauce and cashew parmesan, the confit potato terrine, and also the buddha bowl (a veggie flavour-filled delight of a meal). However, there are also small plates and a divine brunch menu to choose from.

The Roundhill Restaurant
36 East St, Brighton BN1 1HL, United Kingdom

Cin Cin

Cin Cin markets itself as the "best Italian restaurant in Brighton," and we might be inclined to agree with that. It’s another Michelin Star restaurant in Brighton with high-quality, classic Italian fare, including pasta and seafood. The staff pairs every meal with a delicious wine list, and they cook each meal to perfection.

Unlike most Italian restaurants, Cin Cin offers a seasonal, rotating menu to keep the ingredients as fresh and locally sourced as possible. While you can always get pasta, there are many different kinds to choose from, depending on the season.

Tortelli of sweet potato, truffle butter, amaretti and sage Cin Cin Brighton top restaurant — Tortelli is considered to be in Cin Cin’s top menu lists! | Image from cincinuk

Currently, the top item on the menu is the South Down venison loin. It is served with caramelised onion polenta, purple kale, quince, and also mushroom ragu. It's a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience we recommend!

However, if you prefer to dine at home, this contender for one of the best restaurants in Hove features carry-out options. You can order a three-course dinner for two with a starter, the pasta of the day, and also classic Italian tiramisu for dessert.

Cin Cin
13-16 Vine St, Brighton BN1 4AG, United Kingdom

Egg and Spoon

If you're looking for a place to have a casual morning breakfast before hitting the town or the beach, Egg and Spoon is the place to go. It's a local favourite and one of Brighton's best restaurants for brunch, breakfast, or lunch.

Egg and Spoon are known for their egg on toast meals with local Red Rooster coffee. If you're vegan, the restaurant also offers a green herb tofu scramble on sourdough, which is absolutely delicious.

Egg and Spoon ham hock toastie — A Brighton brunch spot that serves great meals and even better coffee. | Image from eggandspoon1

Egg and Spoon serve up more than delicious English Breakfasts, however. It's a local haven and a great way to see a glimpse of the true Brighton - the one that remains after the tourists all go home.

Egg and Spoon
107-108 Saint George's Road Brighton, and Hove BN2 1EA, United Kingdom

Food for Friends (Best for Veggie and Vegan options)

Established in 1981, Food for Friends has been providing the Brighton area with vegetarian and vegan options in fine dining for a while. However, it remains popular as one of the best restaurants in Brighton (meat-eating residents included).

The OG vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Brighton Food for friends — One of the OG vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Brighton! | Image from foodforfriendsrestaurant

This is because Food for Friends has some amazing flavours, locally sourced ingredients, and a constantly rotating menu. The chefs are experts at creating incredible dishes with a wide array of flavours.

The current menu has an amazing vegan burger and an even better (in our opinion) Sri Lankan beet curry to offer. There are several other options with equally delicious flavours - don't ignore Food for Friends while you're in Brighton!

Food for Friends
17-18 Prince Albert St, Brighton BN1 1HF, United Kingdom

The Gingerman

The Gingerman is known as one of the best restaurants in Brighton, partially because of the atmosphere. It captures the mood of the city - bright, modern, and British, with a background of tradition and lots of holiday fun.

The Gingerman serves classic British and Irish pub food with a modernised twist. It offers small plates and large plates but often switches out the menu to match what's in season. This restaurant has some of the most flavourful food in the city packed into its intimate setting.

You'll need to get a reservation if you eat at the Gingerman. However, it's worth it for the tasting menu, which sometimes includes butter-poached cod, a blueberry, and pecan parfait.

The Gingerman
21A Norfolk Square, Brighton BN1 2PD, United Kingdom

The Chilli Pickle

If you're looking for somewhere a little more down-to-earth than some of the fancier restaurants on this list, the Chilli Pickle is a great option. It's delicious and carries unique and wonderful flavours, but it feels like a regular restaurant.

Chilli Pickle Thali with curry, rice, naan and vegetable sides best restaurants in Brighton — First time here? We recommend trying out the Chilli Pickle Thali for lunch! | Image from thechillipickle

One of the premier Indian cuisine locations among the best restaurants in Brighton, the Chilli Pickle offers cuisine from both Northern and Southern India. However, the chefs add their own twist to all the dishes, making them unique.

The tandoori curry is impressive, as is the BBQ Monkfish with Tikka Moilee. However, if you don't feel like going out, you can order the Chilli Pickle online and pick it up. Otherwise, you can also have it delivered to your place and enjoy the taste of India in your pyjamas!

The Chilli Pickle
17 Jubilee St, Brighton BN1 1GE, United Kingdom

Chamuyo Brighton

There is more than one steakhouse in Brighton, just like multiple world cuisines coexist. So, if you're looking for a steak with a more southern flair, check out the well-made steaks and cocktails at Chamuyo, the Argentinian steakhouse.

A nice plating of dulce de leche Chamuyo — This beautiful plate of Dulce de Leche is perfect for capping off an appetizing steak. | Image from chamuyosteakhouse

With a location in London, Chamuyo is an incredibly popular option for tourists and locals. It has reasonable prices and excellent offerings and is also located right on the water, making it a great location for a romantic dinner.

If you go to Chamuyo, we recommend the lamb shank with mashed potatoes. In addition, the Pollo al chimichurri (chicken with chimichurri sauce) is one of the most popular options currently on the menu.

Chamuyo Brighton
62 Middle St, Brighton BN1 1AL, United Kingdom

Constantinople Cafe and Bistro

Constantinople is a family-run restaurant that is always busy. It's worth reserving a table or waiting a few minutes, however, because the authenticity and deliciousness of this Turkish cuisine are simply to die for.

Uncommon on Brighton streets, Turkish classics such as Shakshuka and Calamari Mucver have an English twist. These dishes combine fresh-caught English fish with authentic Turkish flavours and spices.

Constantinople is a down-to-earth, friendly place run by owners and chefs. Moreover, the family wants to ensure you have an amazing time at the restaurant. So, you are sure to fulfil that expectation if you eat any food there.

Constantinople Cafe and Bistro
51 Norfolk Square, Brighton BN1 2PA, United Kingdom

Burnt Orange

Burnt Orange was created to offer delicious food, stunning drinks, and also a place to enjoy the Brighton nightlife. You can book a table online for a full dine-in or drinks only to enjoy the delightful cocktail menu and start your Brighton evening on the right foot.

Although the drinks are amazing, you're missing out if you don't try some of Burnt Orange's incredible, startling flavours. They have a rotating seasonal menu that includes dishes such as Smoked Beef Arayes with Blackberries and Buttermilk or Flamed Sea Bream with Basil Yoghurt and Mango Dressing.

While the plates are small, the drinks are intimate, and the setting is superb. At Burnt Orange, you can experience one of the best restaurants in Brighton, with some of the city's most unique and wonderful tastes. Best of all, you can do all this without spending too much money.

Burnt Orange
59 Middle St, Brighton BN1 1AL, United Kingdom

Cyan Restaurant and Bar

Last but certainly not least, Cyan Restaurant and Bar is a Brighton favourite. It's located inside the Grand Hotel in Brighton and is also one of the best restaurants in the area, whether or not you're staying in the hotel.

Famous for its Sunday Lunches, Cyan usually has no reservations available on Sundays for a few weeks out. However, it's a perfect place to stop for a small plate and a cocktail before a show or after an evening walk in downtown Brighton.

Cyan's cocktails are world-famous, including the Pickled Plum Punch and the Peach Lexington Iced Tea. Pair it with a small plate and get something off the children's menu for the little ones - Cyan has a little something for everyone in the most magnificent setting.

Cyan Restaurant and Bar
97-99 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FW, United Kingdom

Semolina

For those who enjoy a curated menu of specialities, Semolina is the perfect place to go. The atmosphere is casual, cosy and comfortable with a sophisticated touch. It’s ideal for relaxing and enjoying a homemade meal during the weekend or after a long day at work.

This approach is what makes it one of the best restaurants in Brighton. All ingredients are sourced locally, as is their wonderful coffee. They serve local wines, ciders, and spirits. Try the ravioli of the season and pair them with a veggie starter. Let Semolina surprise you with its unique dishes.

Semolina
15 Baker Street, Brighton BN1 4JN, United Kingdom

Top Restaurants in Brighton

Our Favourite Restaurants in Brighton

All of these restaurants are highly rated and serve delicious, Brighton-based food. However, a few of them stand out from the list. If we had to pick, our favourites would be Giggling Squid, The Walrus, and Shelter Hall.

It was extremely difficult to choose the best places to eat in Brighton. Instead of focusing on food, we looked at the restaurants that were important to Brighton and the local culture. All three of these restaurants have been in Brighton for a while (in the case of the Walrus, over 200 years) and are Brighton originals.

If you're in Brighton, you have to try some seafood, and all three of these restaurants offer seafood in some version or other. However, there is a wide variety to try, and you can try something new and bright or an old classic with the Walrus.

Shelter Hall has an amazing variety because it's really seven of the best restaurants in Brighton in one. You can choose from pizza, Italian, Asian, or classic Brighton seafood while making everyone at your party happy.

Giggling Squid was the first Thai restaurant in the city and remained one of the best around. You simply can't go wrong with the flavours and the ambience, especially because it is housed in a historic fisherman's cottage.

Of course, Brighton has more amazing restaurants, but we didn't have time to discuss them all. These are just our picks for the best restaurants in Brighton, waiting for you to visit and try them out.

Did we miss an iconic Brighton restaurant? Or, is there a new place that should be included on this list? Share this article, or let us know in the comments.