LOST IN THE LANES | Nile St, Brighton
After two and a half years, I still manage to take a wrong turn and get lost in Brighton’s twisting Lanes. Of course there are worse places to wander into, but I’ll often find myself passing through to get somewhere else. So I was pleased to discover a new café had appeared in Nile St – aptly named Lost in the Lanes.
As my 25th was approaching, I’d been looking for somewhere for a really great breakfast. Luckily for me, I received an invitation to visit Lost and try their “divinely decadent” breakfast and exclusive coffee, and didn’t need to think twice about it.
A birthday breakfast
I popped in late morning to be met with the warmest of welcomes and birthday wishes from the team. Talking to them at the front of the café, I found myself distracted somewhat by how beautiful it was inside. Sleek counters, platters of fresh food and the most stunning espresso machine!
Moving to my table at the back, the sleek decor carries throughout, with marble-like slate grey walls and industrial style copper tables, softened with comfortable brown leather, wishbone chairs and rose gold quotes on the walls. I felt very at ease here – not to mention head over heels.
I ordered my standard flat white to begin with, and it was just perfect. The milk was spot on in both temperature and foam level, with a tart sweetness coming through from the espresso. Brandon chose a hot chocolate and we were both impressed by its dark, slightly bitter taste.
To avoid food envy, we both chose the Lost breakfast – free range grilled sausage and eggs (any way), smoked bacon, sautéed potato hash, slow roast heritage tomato, field mushroom and sourdough toast. I don’t think I’ve ever had a full English without having a few criticisms, but this was honestly the best I have ever eaten. Everything down to the mushroom and tomato, which most places just shouldn’t bother with, was pleasing both in flavour and texturally.
The potato hash was simply addictive, both soft and crispy, whilst the sausage was juicy and rich. The scrambled eggs were gorgeous and melted in the mouth, and underneath lay a generous slice of chewy brown sourdough toast.
As if my experience couldn’t get any better, I was suddenly surprised with the sound of “Happy Birthday” blasting throughout the café and the team brandishing a fresh cupcake, adorned with lit candle.
Third Place?
Surprising though it is, there just aren’t many places in Brighton that offer a top-notch breakfast with a banging coffee alongside. But standing proudly in the midst of chain establishments, Lost has swept in to fill the gap that sat in the Lanes’ offering. Owner Isabela told me that she very carefully sourced her espresso from Has Bean and also chooses guest filters to keep it varied.
Lost feels very much like a labour of love for Isabela. The food has a very Mediterranean feel to reflect her background, with dishes on the menu inspired by little twists. Chef Claire, who trained under Gordon Ramsay for seven years, sources meat from two butchers in Brighton and Steyning – one for its free range produce, and the other that prepare burgers to her own recipe! She also prepares vibrant salads for lunches fresh every day, available to eat in or take out with accompaniments such as Greek inspired pastries. The menu changes daily, and you’ll find plenty of options for vegetarian, vegan and gluten free diets.
Whether stopping for a lazy breakfast with friends and family, or grabbing a coffee and pastry on the go, Lost is sure to become a third place for many. Check out their Instagram to get a feel for place, and do let me know if you stop by!