Food writer, presenter and leading voice in African cuisine, Lerato Umah-Shaylor, moved to Eastbourne from London. She is the author of Africana, a cookbook celebrating African cuisine, and hosts cooking classes and supper clubs in the area. From bumping into Serena Williams at The Grand to browsing local artisan shops, Lerato gives us her insider’s guide to Eastbourne.
What’s been your most memorable moment in Eastbourne?
Watching Serena Williams play in the Eastbourne Open at Devonshire Park was quite the thrill. Living just metres away from the park, it’s a highlight of my summer seeing tennis stars around town or dining in local restaurants during the week of the tournament. I watched Serena Williams play one of her final games here before retiring. It’s magical to have international stars in this quiet corner of England.
What is your go-to for when you want to try something new?
As a music lover, I head to the Congress Theatre. Their newly built entertainment hub has an amazing offering from musicals to comedies, and even something for the kids. I’ve enjoyed performances there by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, pop concerts, and everything in between. It's a beautiful space with something for everyone all year round.
Where is your favourite place to go when you’re craving something sweet?
For a sweet treat, To The Rise is a must. It’s a bakery on Terminus Road, just a 10-minute walk from the railway station, run by lovely sisters. They have everything from sourdough to European-style pastries. I always go for the trio of morning buns: chai, cinnamon and citrus. You can also catch me at the café in Holywell for a well-deserved ice cream and a pup cup for my cockapoo, Tuppence.
Where is your top recommendation for a first date?
Dinner at Ancient Grains. It’s a Sardinian restaurant in the Meads neighbourhood, run by husband and wife Carla and Davide. I love their small plates and use of local ingredients. It’s a really popular choice for locals, the owners are friendly and you can call to find out about their specials. I would also recommend The Grand Hotel, also known as "the white palace". It’s a gorgeous building on the seafront and definitely a place for romance and to light that spark, whether it's for afternoon tea or drinks at the bar.
What are your favourite local independent shops?
It’s hard to resist Barley Sugar, an artisan food and wine shop in the centre of town. They have decadent chocolate, some of the best British and European cheeses, wine, cured meats, beautiful and eclectic homewares and more. For more independent shops, I walk to Little Chelsea and explore Grove Road and South Street. For book lovers, I recommend Camilla's - it’s like a world of its own and a local treasure.
At least once a week I’m at my favourite greengrocer, Terminus Road Green Grocer, for everything from plantains and pomegranates to peppers, dates and my favourite tahini. Across the street is a dedicated African store called Proudly African - a newcomer with lots of wonderful produce for a variety of African dishes. I always stock up on plantain chips there. I also love Enterprise Shopping Centre, a smaller unit behind the railway station (not to be mistaken for the large shopping mall) for discovering local artisans.
What’s the best way to have fun in Eastbourne?
Towner Gallery is one of my favourites, they hosted the latest Turner Prize. It's a great place to explore interesting and local exhibitions while soaking up the atmosphere of an exciting, regional art space. Along the seafront, I can't resist ice cream (and a pup cup for my cockapoo Tuppence) from the café tucked between the rocks by Holywell. Right above is a lovely garden - Holywell gardens - with an interesting history and a spot for outdoor theatrical performances. I hosted a beachside birthday party there a few years ago and it's my most memorable birthday party yet. You can also ride along the seafront in a Dotto train, which is a trackless mini train. It’s so much fun and a must-try in Eastbourne. In the summer, I can't resist a game or two of tennis at Devonshire Tennis Court.
For more inspiration, you can follow Lerato on Instagram @leratofoods