15 Best Breakfasts in Brighton: Top Spots for Morning Dining

Brighton’s breakfast scene offers something special for every morning meal lover. This seaside city blends traditional British fare with creative modern twists, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts.

From cosy independent cafés to trendy brunch spots, Brighton serves up 15 outstanding breakfast destinations that showcase the city’s diverse culinary landscape.

The breakfast options range from classic full English breakfasts to innovative vegan dishes and international flavours. Whether you want a quick coffee and pastry or a leisurely weekend brunch, Brighton’s establishments deliver quality food and vibrant atmospheres that reflect the city’s creative spirit.

1) Starfish & Coffee

Starfish & Coffee is a multi-award-winning independent café in the Queens Park area of Brighton. Located on Egremont Place, this neighbourhood gem has earned a reputation for exceptional speciality coffee and outstanding brunch offerings.

The café focuses on ethical sourcing and quality beans. They prioritise responsible practices throughout their supply chain.

Baristas show expertise in their craft and deliver consistently excellent drinks. Their brunch menu has earned recognition across Brighton, with the establishment proudly using the hashtag #brunchlikeaboss.

The food quality justifies this confidence, with dishes that showcase creativity and solid execution. The menu offers variety and maintains high standards across all offerings.

The atmosphere feels welcoming and community-focused, typical of the best independent cafés. Starfish & Coffee has created a space that works for both quick coffees and leisurely weekend brunches.

They also run a rewards club for regular customers and offer promotional deals to help with rising costs.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,311 reviews)
📍Location: 32 Egremont Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 0GA
📞Contact: +44 1273 230635
🌐Website: Starfish & Coffee Website

2) Moksha Caffe

This independent coffee shop sits right opposite St Peter’s Church near London Road. The funky atmosphere draws locals and visitors who come for the modern British-inspired brunch and lunch menu.

The café operates on a walk-in only basis, so diners should expect to queue during busy weekend mornings. Once seated, guests can enjoy dishes made with fresh, local, and ethical produce that showcase quality ingredients.

The full Moksha breakfast stands out as a popular choice, featuring homemade hash browns alongside well-prepared bacon and sausages. Their huevos rancheros receives praise, while the blueberry pancakes offer a sweeter option for lighter appetites.

Coffee enthusiasts appreciate their own blend of coffee, which pairs well with freshly baked cakes. The scrambled eggs get frequent mentions for their creamy texture and proper preparation.

Window seats offer entertainment for those who enjoy watching Brighton’s bustling street life while dining.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (1820 reviews)
📍Location: 4-5 York Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4GU
📞Contact: +44 1273 248890
🌐Website: Moksha Caffe Website

3) 17GRAMS Brighton | Coffee & Brunch

17GRAMS Brighton brings specialty coffee and plant-based breakfast to the heart of Brighton’s Lanes. The café sits on Meeting House Lane with a hip, plant-filled interior that creates a welcoming atmosphere.

The coffee selection features carefully sourced single-origin beans and house blends. Their seasonal “Sleigh All Day” blend combines Mexican and Colombian coffees with notes of brazil nuts, marzipan, and clementine.

Other offerings include the fruity Granadilla with passion fruit notes and the smooth Villamaría with white wine and blueberry flavours. The menu focuses entirely on vegan and vegetarian options without compromising on taste or variety.

Guests can enjoy creative breakfast dishes alongside expertly brewed coffee in the main dining area or the charming courtyard. The space fills up quickly during peak breakfast hours, especially at weekends.

Staff know their coffee origins and brewing methods well. The café also sells brewing equipment and coffee beans for home preparation, making it popular with serious coffee enthusiasts.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (810 reviews)
📍Location: 12d Meeting House Ln, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HB
📞Contact: +44 1273 110210
🌐Website: 17GRAMS Brighton Website

4) MEO Brighton

MEO Brighton sits in the heart of Kemptown on St James’s Street. The bright interior creates a relaxed setting where diners can settle in with laptops or bring along their dogs.

Fresh, local ingredients form the foundation of their thoughtful menu. The all-day brunch concept works brilliantly here, with strong vegan and vegetarian options that go beyond typical café offerings.

The Buddha Bowl stands out as a vibrant combination of spiced rice, crispy chickpeas, hummus, avocado, and roasted vegetables, all brought together with creamy tahini sauce. The thoughtful preparation shows in every element of the dish.

Coffee enthusiasts appreciate their commitment to 100% organic beans sourced from local artisan roasters. The quality is evident in each cup, making it an ideal spot for both quick caffeine fixes and leisurely mornings.

The café balances being a proper food destination with essential neighbourhood café charm. Friendly service and a cosy atmosphere make MEO a place where visitors want to linger.

Whether stopping by for brunch or grabbing coffee and pastries, the consistent quality and welcoming environment appeal to locals and visitors alike.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (276 reviews)
📍Location: 39 St James’s St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RG
📞Contact: +44 7586 686744
🌐Website: MEO Brighton Website

5) Kitchen Cafe

Kitchen Cafe sits on Trafalgar Street and offers a proper neighbourhood breakfast spot that locals rely on. The small cafe has a welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.

The menu focuses on classic breakfast dishes done well. Fresh ingredients shine in their full English breakfast, while their eggs Benedict draws regular praise.

The cafe also serves lighter options like porridge and toast for those wanting something simpler. Service moves at a comfortable pace, giving diners time to enjoy their meal.

The staff know their regulars and create a friendly environment that encourages conversation. Tables fill up quickly during weekend mornings, so arriving early helps avoid a wait.

The cafe’s popularity comes from consistent quality rather than flashy presentation. Their approach to breakfast cooking emphasises flavour and freshness over elaborate plating.

This straightforward style has earned them a devoted following among Brighton residents who appreciate reliable, satisfying food.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (184 reviews)
📍Location: 93 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4ER, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 674672

6) Dishoom Permit Room Brighton

Dishoom Permit Room Brighton brings a vibrant twist to the traditional breakfast scene in the heart of Brighton’s bustling lanes. The restaurant combines Indian-inspired breakfast dishes with classic British morning fare, creating a unique dining experience.

The menu features standout items like the Bacon Naan Roll and spiced fry-ups that blend familiar flavours with Indian spices. Guests can start their day with steaming chai alongside freshly prepared dishes that showcase the restaurant’s modern Indian approach to breakfast.

The atmosphere buzzes with energy from early morning through late evening. The venue transforms throughout the day, offering breakfast items alongside an extensive drinks menu that includes creative cocktails and local beers.

Located on East Street, the restaurant features a rooftop terrace known as the Aunty Bar, which adds an extra dimension to the dining experience. The space welcomes walk-ins as well as advance bookings, making it accessible for both planned visits and spontaneous breakfast stops.

Music plays an important role in the venue’s character, with resident DJs and a jukebox contributing to the lively atmosphere.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (5,213 reviews)
📍Location: 32 East St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HL
📞Contact: +44 1273 442199
🌐Website: Dishoom Permit Room Brighton Website

7) Vios Café

Vios Café stands out as a multi-concept venue that transforms throughout the day. The space functions as a café, bakery, and tapas bar all in one.

Located in Brighton Square, it offers a cosy atmosphere that locals appreciate. The breakfast menu features fresh, quality ingredients with both traditional and modern options.

Staff bake their goods in-house, filling the café with the aroma of fresh bread and pastries. Baristas prepare coffee expertly to complement the food.

Vios is versatile, offering quick morning coffees and pastries or more substantial breakfasts. The staff know the menu well and provide friendly, attentive service.

The café maintains a relaxed vibe that works for both solo visitors and groups. The comfortable interior encourages guests to linger over their meals.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (307 reviews)
📍Location: 21 Brighton Square, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HD
📞Contact: +44 1273 777116
📸Instagram: Vios Café Instagram

8) Breakfast at Embers

Breakfast at Embers offers a refined morning dining experience on Meeting House Lane in Brighton. The restaurant serves breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 to 11:30, creating an intimate atmosphere for quality morning fare.

During the week, Embers focuses on evening meals, but weekend mornings highlight their breakfast expertise. Their limited breakfast hours reflect a focused approach to morning service.

The location in Brighton’s Meeting House Lane makes it convenient for locals and visitors exploring the city centre. Embers maintains evening operations most days, showing a versatile kitchen.

Their weekend-only breakfast has built a strong reputation among Brighton’s breakfast spots. This approach creates anticipation and ensures fresh preparation each morning.

⭐Rating: 5.0 (169 reviews)
📍Location: 42 Meeting House Ln, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HB
📞Contact: 01273 869222
🌐Website: Breakfast at Embers Website

9) Bill’s Brighton Restaurant

Bill’s Brighton sits in a converted bus depot on North Road, bringing character to every meal. The restaurant serves breakfast all day, making it perfect for late risers.

Their big brunch plate comes loaded with eggs, bacon, sausages, and classic sides. The breakfast menu ranges from light pancakes to hearty full English breakfasts.

They also serve Mediterranean-style morning meals for variety. Portions are generous, and the ingredients taste fresh throughout the day.

The space feels bright and welcoming with industrial touches from its bus depot past. Staff keep coffee cups filled and orders moving smoothly.

The location puts diners minutes from Brighton’s seafront and the Lanes shopping area. Bill’s won a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2024, showing their consistent quality.

The restaurant welcomes dogs and families, with baby changing facilities available. Free WiFi makes it suitable for casual meetings over breakfast or lunch.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (3,892 reviews)
📍Location: 100 North Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1YE, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 8054 5400
🌐Website: Bill’s Brighton Restaurant Website

10) Lost in the Lanes

Lost in the Lanes sits in Brighton’s historic lanes, just moments from the seafront. The minimalist café creates a welcoming atmosphere with stylish, comfortable interiors.

The menu changes with the seasons, featuring the best Sussex ingredients with Mediterranean influences. The breakfast menu draws people in each morning alongside their speciality coffee.

Visitors can enjoy breakfasts that showcase quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The kitchen focuses on wholesome dishes that are both satisfying and fresh.

The bottomless brunch option stands out, available daily from 10am to 3pm. Guests get unlimited mimosas, bellinis, or fizz for 1.5 hours with any breakfast or brunch dish.

The relaxed timing means there’s no rush to finish. The restaurant operates as a café during the day and transforms into a dinner spot on Thursday through Saturday evenings.

Their award-winning lunch and dinner menus have built a loyal following among locals and visitors. The combination of flexible hours and creative food makes it a favourite in Brighton.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,144 reviews)
📍Location: 10 Nile St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HW
📞Contact: +44 1273 525444
🌐Website: Lost in the Lanes Website

11) Mange Tout

This French-run bistro has served Brighton locals since 2009, earning a loyal following for its focus on quality. The café uses fresh, sustainable ingredients sourced locally whenever possible, creating an authentic French dining experience.

The brunch menu runs daily from 9am to 3pm, featuring classic Gallic dishes and daily specials. The kitchen uses locally roasted coffee and sustainably sourced tea to complement the food.

Natural wines from organic agriculture add to the French atmosphere. Mange Tout operates seven days a week and offers dinner service Thursday through Saturday with extended hours.

The lunch menu changes frequently with seasonal small and large plates. Blackboard specials encourage regulars to return and try new dishes.

The café welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners. The blend of French classics and local ingredients creates a unique Brighton breakfast experience.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (821 reviews)
📍Location: 81 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 607270
🌐Website: Mange Tout Website

12) The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club on Market Street brings comfort food to Brighton’s city centre. This café serves hearty breakfast dishes with generous portions.

The atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming for families and solo diners alike. Staff create a friendly environment for everyone, from young professionals grabbing morning coffee to families enjoying weekend brunch.

The menu focuses on classic breakfast favourites done well. The café uses ethically sourced ingredients and prepares dishes that satisfy without breaking the bank.

Weekday opening from 8am makes it convenient for early risers. The location puts diners in the heart of Brighton’s shopping area, making it easy to combine breakfast with other activities.

Weekend hours extend until 5pm, giving flexibility for late morning meals. The Breakfast Club remains a popular choice for classic breakfasts in Brighton.

⭐Rating: 4.4 (2,716 reviews)
📍Location: 16-17 Market St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HH, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 947080
🌐Website: The Breakfast Club Website

13) Black Mocha

Black Mocha brings together specialty coffee and seasonal brunch in a warm, rustic setting on Gloucester Road. The café has built a strong reputation since opening in 2014 and is now a beloved spot in Brighton’s North Laine area.

The menu focuses on quality ingredients and seasonal offerings. Their signature black mocha combines 70% Madagascan chocolate with expertly brewed espresso.

The kitchen serves creative brunch dishes, freshly baked cakes, and savoury snacks throughout the day. The atmosphere feels cosy and welcoming, with rustic décor creating a relaxed dining experience.

Staff know their coffee well and gladly recommend dishes from the rotating seasonal menu. Black Mocha operates as a conscious business, working to eliminate waste that isn’t compostable or recyclable.

They cater to different dietary needs, offering vegan and vegetarian options alongside their regular menu. Black Mocha remains a favourite for both coffee lovers and brunch enthusiasts.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (565 reviews)
📍Location: 103 Gloucester Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AP
🌐Website: Black Mocha Website

14) Garden Cafe Brighton

Garden Cafe Brighton sits on North Road and offers more than your typical breakfast spot. The cafe also operates as a bed and breakfast with an attached cake shop, creating a cozy neighbourhood feel that locals love.

The breakfast menu features classic British options and lighter continental choices. Fresh pastries and homemade cakes fill the display counter, tempting visitors throughout the morning.

Portions are generous without being overwhelming. The quality stays consistent across visits.

The interior feels warm and welcoming. Mismatched furniture adds character.

Staff members know many customers by name and create a friendly atmosphere. Guests often linger over coffee and enjoy the relaxed pace.

The pace here moves slower than chain establishments, which suits Brighton’s morning vibe. Service can take a bit longer during weekend rushes, but the wait rarely feels frustrating.

The cafe attracts a mix of tourists staying upstairs and local regulars who pop in for coffee and cake.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (432 reviews)
📍Location: 29 North Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1YB, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Garden Cafe Brighton Website

15) Billie’s

Billie’s has huge windows that flood the venue with natural light. This creates a warm atmosphere that draws visitors in from Brighton’s bustling streets.

The restaurant specialises in all-day breakfast. It’s a reliable choice for a morning meal or an afternoon treat.

Generous portion sizes consistently impress diners. Oversized hash browns arrive golden and crispy, and the pancakes are larger than most cafés serve.

These hearty portions offer great value for money in a city where breakfast can be expensive. The menu focuses on classic breakfast dishes done well, not complicated fusion creations.

Visitors can expect properly cooked eggs, quality bacon, and fresh ingredients prepared simply. The café atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, appealing to both locals and tourists.

Billie’s location on Hampton Place puts it within easy walking distance of Brighton’s main attractions. Service is friendly and efficient, though tables fill up during weekend mornings.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (594 reviews)
📍Location: 34 Hampton Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3DD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 774386

What Makes Brighton’s Breakfast Scene Unique?

Brighton’s breakfast culture stands out because it uses locally sourced ingredients from Sussex farms. The city blends diverse international influences and focuses on sustainable dining, appealing to environmentally conscious locals and visitors.

Local Ingredients and Sourcing

Brighton’s coastal location gives restaurants access to fresh seafood and produce from nearby Sussex farms. Many cafés work directly with local suppliers to bring free-range eggs and vegetables from the South Downs into their kitchens.

Breakfast spots often feature seasonal menus that change based on local availability. Diners might find wild mushrooms from Sussex woodlands in autumn or fresh asparagus from local farms in spring.

Local bakeries supply many venues with freshly made bread and pastries. Some spots make their own preserves using fruit from nearby orchards.

This focus on local sourcing creates a distinct taste visitors can’t find elsewhere. The emphasis on local ingredients also supports the regional economy.

Many breakfast venues proudly display where their ingredients come from. This creates connections between diners and local producers.

Influence of International Cuisines

Brighton’s diverse population has shaped its breakfast offerings beyond traditional English fare. The city features American-style diners serving buttermilk pancakes and hearty stack breakfasts alongside classic full English options.

Mediterranean influences appear in many menus, with dishes featuring olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Middle Eastern flavours show up in breakfast items like shakshuka and flatbreads with various toppings.

Asian fusion breakfast dishes are also popular. Venues offer congee, bao buns, and Japanese-inspired breakfast bowls.

These international touches reflect Brighton’s multicultural community and attract food-curious visitors. Diners can find everything from traditional fry-ups to innovative fusion dishes within a few streets of each other.

Trends in Sustainable Dining

Many Brighton breakfast venues use eco-friendly practices to reduce environmental impact. This includes biodegradable packaging, organic sourcing, and careful portion planning to minimise food waste.

Plant-based options dominate many breakfast menus. Vegan full English breakfasts, dairy-free coffee alternatives, and creative vegetable-based dishes are standard offerings.

Several establishments focus on zero-waste cooking by using every part of ingredients and composting organic waste. Some venues have eliminated single-use plastics and offer reusable containers for takeaway.

Water conservation and energy efficiency are common among Brighton’s breakfast spots. Many cafés use renewable energy and have installed water-saving devices to reduce their environmental footprint.

Tips for Enjoying Breakfast in Brighton

Brighton’s breakfast scene offers incredible variety. Timing your visit and understanding dietary options will help you get the most from your morning meal.

The city caters well to different dietary needs while maintaining quality across its many establishments.

When to Visit for the Best Experience

Weekday mornings between 8:00-10:00 AM offer the best experience at most breakfast spots. Queues are shorter and service is usually faster during these hours.

Weekend visits require more planning. Popular cafés often have 30-45 minute waits between 10:00 AM-1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

Arriving before 9:30 AM or after 2:00 PM helps avoid peak crowds. Booking ahead is essential for larger groups.

Many independent cafés don’t take reservations, but some larger establishments accept bookings for parties of four or more. Weather considerations matter in Brighton.

Seaside cafés with outdoor seating fill up quickly on sunny days. Indoor spots near the lanes become busier during rainy weather.

The summer months (June-August) see the heaviest crowds, especially near the beach. Winter visits often provide a more relaxed atmosphere with shorter waits.

Dietary Options and Allergen Awareness

Brighton excels at accommodating dietary requirements. Most establishments offer comprehensive vegan and vegetarian options, with many cafés specialising in plant-based cuisine.

Gluten-free choices are widely available. Many venues use separate preparation areas and offer gluten-free bread, pancakes, and pastries.

Allergen information is usually displayed on menus or available upon request. Staff are generally well-trained to discuss ingredients and cross-contamination procedures.

Halal options are available at several establishments, though availability varies. It’s worth checking ahead if you need this option.

Most cafés happily accommodate customisation requests like dairy-free milk, egg substitutions, or ingredient changes. Brighton’s food scene prides itself on flexibility and inclusivity.

Conclusion

Brighton’s breakfast scene offers something for every taste and budget. From traditional full English breakfasts near the seafront to trendy vegan brunch spots in the city centre, visitors can find quality morning meals throughout the area.

The city’s independent cafés and established restaurants create a diverse food landscape that locals and tourists enjoy. Finding the perfect breakfast spot becomes easier when you know the local area well.

We understand Brighton’s neighbourhoods and can help you find the perfect rental property or serviced apartment near your favourite dining spots. Whether you’re looking for a short-term stay or a long-term rental in Brighton, our local expertise extends beyond housing to include lifestyle recommendations.

Contact us at info@jfpropertypartners.com or call +44 7457 427143 for personalised advice on our available properties. The best breakfast experiences often happen when you stay in the right location.

We can guide you to our serviced apartments and rental properties, where excellent morning dining options are just a short walk away. Visit our website or our contact page to explore our Brighton accommodation options.

Our team knows which neighbourhoods offer the best combination of comfortable living and fantastic breakfast spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brighton offers everything from classic fry-ups to plant-based alternatives. Many spots feature sea views and family-friendly atmospheres.

The city’s breakfast scene includes traditional cafés, modern brunch spots, and hidden local favourites.

What’s a typical Brighton breakfast?

A typical Brighton breakfast combines traditional English elements with the city’s creative twist. Most places serve the classic full English breakfast with bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast.

Many cafés also offer lighter options like smashed avocado on toast, eggs Benedict, or porridge. The seaside location means some venues include fresh seafood or Mediterranean-style dishes.

Where can I find a traditional English breakfast in Brighton?

Kitchen Cafe serves excellent traditional full English breakfasts with quality ingredients. MEO Brighton also offers classic breakfast options alongside their modern menu items.

Many local cafés throughout the city centre and seafront specialise in proper English breakfasts. These spots usually open early and serve hearty portions perfect for starting the day.

Can you recommend restaurants in Brighton that serve vegan breakfast options?

Moksha Caffe provides excellent plant-based breakfast choices with creative vegan alternatives. Many Brighton establishments now offer vegan full English breakfasts using plant-based sausages, scrambled tofu, and dairy-free options.

17GRAMS Brighton offers various vegan-friendly brunch items alongside their coffee selections. Most breakfast spots include at least some vegan choices on their menus.

What are the best family-friendly breakfast spots in Brighton?

Starfish & Coffee welcomes families with a relaxed atmosphere and menu options for children and adults. The café provides high chairs and space for pushchairs.

Kitchen Cafe offers a welcoming environment for families with generous portions and classic options for younger diners. Many seafront cafés also provide family-friendly settings with outdoor seating areas.

Which Brighton breakfast venues offer a sea view?

Several cafés along the seafront provide stunning sea views. Many establishments on the lower promenade offer outdoor seating with direct beach and pier views.

The seafront area between the two piers features multiple breakfast spots with sea-facing windows or terraces. These venues often open early to catch the sunrise over the English Channel.

Are there any hidden gems for a hearty breakfast in Brighton?

17GRAMS Brighton is a local favourite. The café is known for excellent coffee and hearty brunch portions.

Regulars come here for quality ingredients and skilled preparation.

Many smaller independent cafés in the North Laine and Kemptown areas offer great breakfast options. These spots stay away from the main tourist routes.

You can often find better value and more personalised service at these hidden cafés than at the busier seafront locations.

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