Set up in the beautiful warehouse space of N39 in Brighton’s bustling North Laine area, Silo’s quiet, vibrant space is a perfect break away. I was so pleased that one of my favourite spaces was being used again.

The space is minimalist but warm. With clear light bulbs hanging down on black wires, plastic crates and reworked wooden furniture, you can see their ethos seeped into every detail. The clientele are a mix of families, friends doing lunch and people sipping on coffee whilst working behind their laptops.

They have a zero waste policy, so they use the coffee grounds to grow their own mushrooms and have a compost machine on site. But that’s not all! From milling their own flour, fermenting, composting, baking to making yoghurt, they do it all. It’s pretty impressive.

We just popped in for tea, coffee and cake. The coffee was great, earthy and nutty, and the chocolate nib cake is highly recommended! The neighbouring table had chosen the mushroom risotto and catchbox fish mains, which looked and smelt divine. We will be back for a proper lunch for sure.

Images by Rida Suleri-Johnson and courtesy of Silo

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Keep It Vintage was started in 2012 by Simone, who is just the sweetest and most knowledgeable lady. Her aim is to help customers find little pieces of history – beautiful, unique objects that are hard to come by – from beautiful Danish ceramics, original mid-century furniture to Polish hand-carved wooden spoons.

Everything in the shop is carefully selected and Simone’s passion for each and every piece is obvious. It’s fascinating talking to her and hearing a little bit of the history or workmanship behind her finds.

I just love the relaxed vibe in this small shop and although everything is clearly displayed, there are so many things that are easy to miss at first glance so it’s worth mooching for a while. It’s an uncluttered and beautiful treasure trove.

Images by Rida Suleri-Johnson

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Brighton’s best kept secret? Probably Hove! They’re just one city but oh so different. Although I love Brighton’s hustle and bustle and Camdenesque vibes in North Laine, Hove is where my heart is – with its grand squares leading to the seafront, great museum, welcoming pubs and wonderful cafes.

One such cafe (and bakery) is the demure looking Sugardough, tucked just off the main seafront. Step inside and you’ll be welcomed by the wonderful aroma of bread, pies and cakes. After a walk along the prom in the fresh sea air, it’s like being hugged by your mum!

It’s worth heading here just to grab a loaf of bread. We absolutely love their sourdough loaves, from the wholemeal to soft crust white, they’re all equally delicious.

But I urge you to stay a while to take in its vintage charm, listen to their old school music and watch the bakers at work. Grab a coffee, a slice of cake or Portuguese nata and warm yourself from the inside out. Or when the weather perks up, prop yourself on the street side tables outside and people watch.

Images by Rida Suleri-Johnson

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