Hove Made – Homemade food, local heart and soul
This month’s hidden gem took us on a jaunt to Blatchington Road, where we uncovered an independent neighbourhood café that has quietly built a reputation as one of Hove’s most welcoming food spots.
Now celebrating its first year, the business is the passion project of co-owners Kitty and Eva, who spent three months transforming the space into exactly what they wanted it to be – warm, community-focused and proudly homemade. The name ‘Hove Made’ combines a clever play on location and a shared passion for delivering delicious homemade food that they both wanted to bring to Hove residents.
Local sourcing sits at the heart of everything. Coffee beans come from Brighton-based suppliers, meat is delivered fresh from local farms and butchers, and many pastries are baked in-house, with others sourced from trusted local bakeries. The menu balances comforting classics with lighter, seasonal options and there’s a clear effort to cater for everyone, with vegetarian and vegan choices available across breakfast and specials.
On my visit, I chose to immerse myself in comfort territory. I ordered bubble and squeak topped with fried eggs, served with cherry tomatoes, which is the kind of beloved old-school breakfast you rarely see done properly any more. I also tried the daily special: ratatouille with poached eggs. It was warming, wholesome and exactly what you would want on a grey coastal afternoon.
Beyond the food, what stands out most is the atmosphere. Locals read books over coffee, friends meet for catch-ups and regulars clearly feel at home. The owners are hands-on and present, building genuine relationships with customers. I met a woman who regularly orders the smoked salmon and eggs and told me she’s addicted. Enough said.
Open seven days a week, the café serves early morning coffee from 7am on weekdays, with sunny outdoor seating adding extra appeal in warmer months. Looking ahead, there are plans to expand takeaway salad options and develop even more office-friendly lunch offerings.
We are delighted to highlight this wonderful independent business in an area that is rife with coffee chains and urge you to check it out for yourselves – not to mention the decadent vegan chocolate cupcakes…
@hovemade_coffee_food | 59 Blatchington Road, Brighton BN3 3YJ
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