If there’s one thing Brighton does well, it’s brunch. With its creative food scene, buzzing cafés, vegan restaurants and seafront charm, the city is packed with places serving everything from indulgent pancakes to healthy vegan bowls. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’re a local looking for somewhere new, this guide to the best brunch in Brighton will help you decide where to start your morning.
Why Brighton is Perfect for Brunch
Brighton has a reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting foodie cities, and brunch plays a big part in that. Independent cafés line the streets of The Lanes, plant-based menus are everywhere, and the beach provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely morning.
Because the city has such a mix of locals, students, day trippers and tourists, the brunch scene is always lively and evolving. If you're feeling especially creative, Brighton is the perfect place to do things the non-traditional way. Getting to Brighton by train couldn't be easier, with direct services from London and across the South East.
Best brunch spots in Brighton
These are our top picks for a delicious brunch in Brighton.
Lucky Beach Café
Located right on the seafront, in between the piers, Lucky Beach Café offers a locally produced, organic menu with extensive brunch options available until 11.45am every single day. Providing everything from a traditional breakfast to salted caramel French toast, it’s one of the best brunch spots in Brighton.
For a seaside twist on a breakfast favourite, try the fresh crab and avocado benedict or opt for the Hawaiian B12 breakfast burger as a delicious, plant-based option. There’s a variety of organic teas and coffees to choose from, including iced coffee, which is ideal on those balmy Brighton mornings.
Starfish and Coffee
This restaurant has a huge menu, making it one of the best brunch places in Brighton. Situated next to Queen’s Park, Starfish and Coffee offers English breakfast staples, including veggie and vegan options, as well as a choice of eggs Florentine or Royale and chorizo hash dishes.
There’s a dedicated kids menu and a large selection of hot and cold drinks, including chai lattes and fresh smoothies. With locally sourced ingredients and gluten-free options available, this is high on the list of venues to go for the best brunch spot in Brighton.
The Ivy in the Lanes
For a fine dining experience, The Ivy in the Lanes is one of the best places for brunch in Brighton if you’re looking for a sleek and stylish venue with a gorgeous art-deco design. A unique weekend brunch menu offers options such as cured smoked salmon, eggs benedict and chips, pancakes and baked miso aubergine, making this an ideal spot for that special occasion.
Served from 11am to 3.45pm on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, it’s a good idea to book your brunch in Brighton with a reservation here in advance.
Café Malbec
For something a little different, try Café Malbec, featuring traditional Argentinian Empanadas and tapas. With a variety of brunch offerings, including Argentinian breakfasts, omelettes and pancakes served every day from 10am until 5pm, it’s certainly worth a visit. For those wanting a bottomless brunch in Brighton, look no further. Café Malbec has the option to add sparkling wine to any brunch item, allowing you to enjoy a bottomless bunch for 1.5 hours.
Vegan Brunch in Brighton
Brighton is one of the UK’s most vegan-friendly cities, and its brunch scene proves it. Try Green Kitchen for hearty vegan fry-ups, or Purezza for pizza-inspired brunch dishes with plant-based cheese. Many mainstream cafés, including The Breakfast Club and Trading Post, also offer vegan options.
Brunch by the Beach
Few things beat enjoying brunch with a sea view. Cafés along Brighton seafront, such as Oeuf and Lucky Beach, make the most of the location with menus full of breakfast classics and modern brunch creations. It’s the perfect way to start a day exploring the pier or wandering along the promenade.
Tips for Enjoying Brunch in Brighton
- Book ahead at popular spots, especially at weekends.
- Go early if you’re planning a beachside brunch to beat the queues.
- Check menus online, as many cafés rotate seasonal dishes.
If you’re wanting to experience one of the best brunch places in Brighton without the parking stress, head to Brighton by train and discover some delicious food and drink in this vibrant coastal city.