Last Updated on August 4, 2024
LOST and Found: Discovering Culinary Gems in Brighton
Tucked away in the South Lanes, one of Brighton’s liveliest nooks and just a stone’s throw from the seafront, you’ll find LOST in the Lanes. My Brighton buddies have been raving about this popular spot, which has been serving brunch and lunch for the past five years, and now, it has stretched its wings into the night.
Brighton is known for its vibrant dining scene, and LOST adds tremendous value as a chef-led, independent eatery brimming with heart. With owner Natalie Demetriou at the helm, who has just been shortlisted for Cateys Restaurateur of the Year – Independent 2024, and a team of delightfully friendly staff, you feel the love the moment you walk in.
With its contemporary, spacious, and relaxed décor, featuring concrete walls, wooden floors, and low-hanging bulbs casting a warm glow over dark wood panelling LOST is the kind of place that makes you want to stay awhile. Relaxed samba music plays in the background, while comfy leather banquettes covered in eye-catching graphic cushions, marble-topped tables and lush greenery add to the inviting atmosphere. There’s a cocktail bar and a large open kitchen where you can watch the culinary wizards at work.
We were served by Henry, who introduced us to the menu with his easy charm. The menu is crafted by Head Chef Sophie Taverner, a former human rights lawyer who trained as a chef at Lyle’s and Ibiza Food Studio with ex-Noma chef Boris Bueno. Sophie’s approach is refreshingly simple: a concise menu of small plates with a Mediterranean tapas vibe, celebrating seasonal produce from local suppliers.
The mixologist-crafted cocktail menu is also fabulous. My Smoke-O-Nut, with tequila, mezcal, coconut rum, peach, lime, and chilli syrup, had a smoky kick, creamy richness, and a warm chilli finish – an epic start to the evening! My companion’s Pink Paloma, featuring tequila, grapefruit, raspberry, chilli syrup, and lime juice, was a hit too. It balanced a slight bitterness with just the right amount of sweetness and a mild, spicy kick.
We chose a selection of small plates to come to gradually over the evening, beginning with some beautifully fresh and springy homemade focaccia served with good quality olive oil and balsamic, and a bowl of fat juicy olives, the trick was not to overindulge! Not to be missed is the Monkfish Skewer with pico de gallo – a real knockout dish featuring meaty chunks of monkfish drenched in wonderfully fresh and herbaceous salsa.
I’m rather partial to peaches, and this summery dish was the perfect treat. It masterfully combines the soft creaminess of mozzarella with sweet peaches, all topped with salty lardons and served on a luscious peach-soaked focaccia.
Broad beans always remind me of childhood, popping pods straight from my dad’s vegetable patch. Here, they’re super fresh and tasty, served in a rich and creamy hung yoghurt, elevated by the tang of preserved lemons. And for something crisp, green and deceptively good, try the baby butterhead salad with a flavourful Caesar dressing and tiny lilliput capers.
The small producers’ wine list is well curated – We paired our meal with a bottle of Pecorino Capostazione Tocco Abruzzo Italy 2021 – dry and mineral with citrus notes.
And finally, we wrapped things up with some delicious homemade vanilla and coffee ice cream, kissed with a hint of mint. To top it off, we had slices of nutty Sussex Manchego cheese, paired with roasted grapes with a strong black coffee for me and a pot of fresh mint tea for my companion …the perfect end to the evening.
If you’re lucky enough to be wandering the streets of Brighton, you absolutely must hunt down LOST. Whether you’re after a lazy brunch, a lively lunch, or a delightful dinner, this charming restaurant offers fabulous food at prices that won’t have you weeping into your wallet.
The Best Place to Stay for a Central Brighton Break
Visiting from London I was keen to spend the night in Brighton so I could enjoy the seaside, dine at LOST, do some leisurely shopping in the Lanes, and catch up with friends. Staying in an apartment-style hotel was the perfect solution. I can highly recommend the Supercity QSquare Aparthotels.
This 4-star spot offers all the modern conveniences: sleek styling, a well-equipped kitchen, a shower room, and a private balcony, all with a sea view. They provide everything you need (including a thoughtful “eat me” bag with snacks and tea bags) for a super comfortable stay. It’s a great base right in the heart of the action, ideal for a night out on the town or a day at the beach.
LOST in the Lanes 10 Nile St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HW
https://www.lostinthelanes.com
Open Every day for breakfast and lunch 9am – 5pm (kitchen closes at 3pm)
Open for dinner Thursday – Saturday 6pm – 11pm (Kitchen closes at 10pm)
Supercity QSquare Aparthotels Apartment
Queen Square Brighton, BN1 3FD, UK
