In the heart of Southsea, nestled amidst the thrift shops and antiques stores, lies Southsea Coffee, the one place we visit whenever we’re in the area. From the food made from locally-sourced ingredients, to the friendly staff and interior, cleverly pieced together from rescued, reclaimed and recycled materials, this is a coffee shop with a difference.

The menu offers a dazzlingly wide selection; breakfasts and brunches packed with fresh fruit, artisan breads and hearty porridges jostle for space with sandwiches packed full of simple yet delicious ingredients. Needless to say, the coffee is incredible and the cakes are always mouth-watering.

The seats are comfortable, and scattered with cushions; at the front, a bar area, often bathed in sunlight, faces directly onto the street, while towards the back is a snug – the ideal place for larger groups or families.

Children are happily and cheerfully accommodated; a giant chalkboard covers one wall, while a large crate full of eclectic and colourful toys sits in the corner. Outside, there’s a den designed with youngsters in mind, and further seating for anyone who prefers the fresh air. From the delicious food, to the impeccable service, Southsea Coffee remains firmly at the top of our favourites list.

Images courtesy of Southsea Coffee

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In the heart of Brighton’s North Laine, standing snugly amongst vintage shops, bookstores and craft suppliers, lies Bill’s Cafe – my absolute favourite place to get something to eat after a hard morning searching out bargains. Opening daily with their award-winning breakfasts at 8am, Bill’s combines friendly staff and tasty food, making for an experience that I love to repeat again and again.

From the crab, salmon and chilli fishcakes to my personal favourite, halloumi and hummus, the food is fresh, local and delicious, and served with a smile. The restaurant itself is bright and airy; full of wooden tables and chairs, colourful displays of seasonal vegetables and shelf upon shelf of fresh produce. During the warmer months, the front doors are flung wide and the restaurant opens onto the street, leaving the sun to stream right in.

As well as serving mouthwatering food, Bill’s also acts as a produce store, selling almost everything you can think of – from a wide range of jams and chutneys to biscuits, sweets, oils and beer. I can never leave without a jar of the thick cut marmalade, some rhubarb and ginger jam and a bag or two of sweet treats – nothing goes hand in hand with strolling along the beach or wandering around the shops quite like a packet of buttons or bonbons.

Image courtesy of Bill’s

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