A Lucky Date
The second I turn onto the coast road, something shifts, and I instantly feel like I’m on holiday. That is one of the sheer joys of living here. It’s not just a sunny-day feeling either; I love a big swell. But the days that get me every time are those scattered-cloud moments with intermittent sunshine, when patches of the sea turn a luminous aqua beneath the rays, and the chalk cliffs gleam pearly bright. Sigh…
What luck, then, that our brunch date fell on exactly such a day, perfectly timed to visit the delightful new café, Kitti’s, on Saltdean’s picturesque seafront.
This Summer’s Hotspot
The building housing this soon-to-be hotspot has stood as a local landmark for decades. Perhaps you’ve visited as a child, attended a romantic wedding, or danced the night away at a wild party.
Its latest incarnation is a thoughtfully reimagined space – slick enough for instant wow-factor, without stripping away the soul of the place. The huge, floor-to-ceiling windows facing straight onto those Channel waves remain untouched, while a stylish high bench-table now runs the full length of the café. It’s just the spot for day dreaming, nostalgic gazing, book writing, or memory making. Oh, and eating.
Spacious and Dog-Friendly
My husband and I managed a rare weekday escape, joined by our trusty Labrador, Messy. Arriving at midday, we took our time exploring the beautifully renovated, dog-friendly space before settling into a spacious, sunlit table inside. We were grateful to find that the tables have been arranged generously with plenty of space for everyone – including the dog – to get comfortable.
We began with expertly made flat whites, served on wooden trays for a sense of occasion. Leaning into our location, we tried the seaweed popcorn – tasty, though next time, we’ll probably choose to pair it with one of the tempting cocktails on offer.
In A Word – Tasty
The menu is daytime-focused with delicious classic brunch fare, an array of loaded waffles, and enticing seasonal specials. Sous-chef Louis (formerly of Rathfinny’s Tasting Room) explained: “We want the food to be really tasty – uncomplicated but memorable. The produce is local, the fish fresh from Brighton. It’s about creating dishes everyone can enjoy.”
“Waffly Versatile”
Showing remarkable predictability, my husband chose the Buttermilk Chicken Waffles with Carolina Reaper honey – Kitti’s playful riff on this year’s hot honey trend. It took all my restraint not to lean over and snaffle the lot: crispy, tender chicken atop fluffy yet crunchy waffles, drizzled generously with sweet, spicy honey. Don’t fear the ‘reaper’– the heat is spot-on.
Next time, I’ve got my eye on the smoked salmon with lemony cream cheese and pickled rock samphire.
(It turns out all these magic waffles are gluten-free. There are plenty of options for diners with requirements and allergies – just ask the team!)
Summer by the Sea
I nearly went for the luxurious Torched Shellfish Macaroni Cheese, highly recommended by our lovely server, Orla, but opted instead for something lighter: the Crab, Wild Fennel, and Potato Salad. A vibrant dish combining new potatoes, delicate ribbons of fennel, tangy ponzu and rich brown crab dressing, and plenty of sweet white crab meat. The dish was beautifully adorned with fresh fennel pollen.
Spoons at the ready, folks, see you at Kitti’s.
Not yet ready to leave, we indulged in seasonal desserts. An Italian-style soft-serve ice cream adorned with strawberry compote, black pepper, and clotted cream.
The black pepper’s gentle heat enhances the berries and balances the cool creaminess of the dish. Equally delightful was the pavlova, a dome of perfect meringue filled with cream and topped with seasonal berries.
And there’s more…
One last note – there are plans for the historic kiosk beside the cafe. Stay tuned.
