New seaside cafe opens in Brighton's Old Reading Room

Brighton’s Reading Room has begun a new chapter as a seafront refectory, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with views across the sea.

The reading room, part of the Black Rock rejuvenation project, offers a daily changing menu with a focus on dishes that “feel cosy and comforting”.

Refectory owner Karl Jones said: “We wanted to create a space that not only serves our community but also celebrates the history of the Reading Room.

“Our aim is to provide a welcoming base, where locals can come together, enjoy a bite to eat and connect with each other in an atmosphere steeped in history.”

Tina Horvath, who created the menu, said: “Our focus is on creating dishes that feel cosy and comforting.”

“The menu will be evolving as our team settles in, with plans to offer hearty hot breakfasts, seasonal lunches and a delicious early evening supper menu.”

Tina Horvath and Karl Jones (Image: Brighton and Hove City Council)

Built in 1835 and designed by architect William Kendall, the Old Reading Room was originally built to provide shelter for residents of Lewes Crescent to read in comfort with a sea view.

It was later used for meetings of the Kemp Town Committee and as a plant store and potting shed.

Restoration works on the listed building included repairs to its arches and pillars as well as installing floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace.

It opened its doors as a café on November 6 as part of plans to rejuvenate Black Rock on the seafront.

Cllr Mitchie Alexander, cabinet member for culture, heritage and tourism, said: “The Reading Room transformation is testament to what can be achieved when public investment to make improvements to public spaces is allied with the passion and attention to detail brought by local business.

“The opening of this fantastic new refectory continues the journey that is revitalising the eastern seafront.

“I’d like to congratulate Karl and his team, who have helped to give this much-loved building a new lease of life and created something really special for residents and visitors to Black Rock.”