Lively independent brunch cafe with generous plates, standout shakshuka and Basque cheesecake, friendly service, and occasional waits; good dietary range, prices mid-to-high for Brighton.
MEO Brighton delivers solid brunch execution with standout shakshuka, Turkish eggs, and Basque cheesecake paired with warm, attentive service and a cozy, well-decorated setting. However, inconsistent execution—overcooked eggs, stale pastries, muted coffee—prevents higher grades, and peak-time waits of 40–50 minutes create operational friction. Competitive with the area's better neighborhood brunch spots, it excels at what it does but lacks the distinction of premier dining destinations.
On St James's Street, MEO Brighton hums with a cozy, friendly buzz that makes it a natural stop for coffee dates and lazy brunches. Reviewers talk about servers who are warm and attentive and plates that arrive looking vibrant and hearty. One diner summed it up: "the space felt welcoming, and breakfast kept us going all day." Peak times can mean a wait, but the vibe stays relaxed and upbeat. The cooking leans classic brunch with Mediterranean accents: richly sauced shakshuka, cooling yoghurt over Turkish eggs, fluffy pancakes, and an admired Basque cheesecake. It is ingredient-led and comfort-first rather than showy; when the kitchen hits its stride, flavors are bright and satisfying. A few off-days appear in reviews (overcooked eggs, muted matcha, or the odd stale pastry), but most diners find the food fresh and generous for the price. Families are well covered thanks to pancakes, eggs on toast, sandwiches, and a smalls-friendly vibe. Kids who love sweet-savoury will eye the American Pancake, while simpler options like Eggs On Toast or the Sausage Sandwich are safe bets. Vegan and gluten-free choices help with mixed needs, though at busy times you may wait; visit earlier to keep the day easy and happy.
Area vibe: Bustling Kemptown high street with indie shops, LGBTQ+ friendly venues, and daytime cafe culture.
Safety: Generally safe, lively foot traffic; standard city vigilance at night.
What's nearby: Near seafront, shops, bars, and residential streets; popular weekend brunch corridor.