Brunch and Curated Beats at Kooks Brighton

Located at 56 Gardner Street in the heart of Brighton's North Laine, Kooks has been a fixture of the local dining scene since 2015. Founded by DJ-producer Tim Healey and his wife Rebecca, the venue was designed to be a 'home-from-home' with a distinct focus on music. The interior reflects this bohemian spirit, featuring upcycled furniture and music-inspired artwork, including contemporary murals by local artist Ste McGregor. A central part of the experience is the curated soundtrack, which draws from Healey's extensive record collection to set the mood throughout the day. The space is welcoming and functions well for different needs, offering a lower exterior level that is wheelchair accessible, though it is worth noting that they do not have adapted toilet facilities.

The menu at Kooks focuses on modern English dishes with a strong emphasis on all-day brunch and hearty seasonal plates. For those visiting early in the day, the Eggs Benedict made with maple glazed ham hock and homemade hollandaise is a frequent choice, alongside the avocado smash which comes with feta, mint, and chilli. Other popular options include the shakshuka, French toast, and a variety of burgers. For those looking for plant-based options, the HLT (halloumi, lettuce, and tomato) and the vegan Biscoff cake are regular features. The kitchen team prides itself on in-house preparation, which extends to their sweet treats and small plates designed for sharing.

Beyond the standard menu, the restaurant offers specific dining packages like their Afternoon Tea, priced at £19.95 per person. This includes a selection of sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, cupcakes, and hot drinks, with an optional upgrade for a glass of bubbles for £5. They also run a Bottomless Brunch service which lasts 90 minutes and includes a brunch dish paired with unlimited Prosecco or beer, requiring a reservation and a £15 deposit. For drinks, the espresso martinis and fresh orange juice are often highlighted by visitors. The restaurant maintains a solid reputation for its food quality, holding a Food Hygiene Rating of 4 as of June 2025, and generally receives positive feedback for its breakfast and burger selections, though service can be more relaxed during peak weekend hours.

Kooks is open throughout the week, with hours from 09:30 to 18:00 Monday through Friday, extending to 19:30 on Saturdays, and returning to 18:00 on Sundays. For those looking to host events, the venue is available for private hire, accommodating about 30 people for seated meals or up to 75 for standing receptions. They also facilitate delivery and takeaway through major platforms like Just Eat and Deliveroo. Whether you are stopping by for a quick coffee or a full meal, the combination of curated playlists and a modern English menu provides a consistent experience in one of Brighton's most vibrant neighborhoods.