Cafe Dharma

I’ve been banned from Marwoods by my teenage daughter. “I don’t want you embarrassing me!” was her proclaim. Well as she was working a long shift at the local gastro pub I took my chance to check out this cafe that is so popular with all her friends while she was otherwise engaged.

Marwoods is not shabby chic, its beyond that. Its downright scruffy. Naked light bulbs, unvarnished wooden floors and bare plaster walls. An estate agent would say it was in need of complete renovation. Its clutter of old furniture, charity shop cast- offs and bric-a-brac detritus make for some highly individual interior decor.

Downstairs it’s all hustle and bustle but upstairs there’s a more laid back feel. I settled into a very comfy leather armchair with the stuffing coming out of one of the armrests. Next to me was a small book case with a mismatch of old books, an ancient wooden phone and a plastic spaceship. If there’s a layer of dust on everything then that’s part of the Marwoods experience, just go with it.

I’d opted for the bargain toastie at £2.50 100_2741made from ‘cheap white bread’ and accompanied by a mug of tea at £1.50 has to be the best bargain lunch in the Lanes. There are plenty more pricier options which sounded delicious but I’m still on austerity measures at the moment so a bargain is a bargain. The huge slabs of cake served to the table next to me looked sumptuous and come stabbed with fork ready for devouring.

Mulling over my tea I pondered my adjustment to being an ‘empty nester’ with my daughter away at university. Now with her return for the holidays there’s the subsequent re-adjustment of having her home again. If the bag loads of washing is a cliche then it’s one that rings true and I’m half way through dealing with the consignment. A relaxed break in Marwoods was the rejuvenating break I needed.

As I was leaving I heard a customer ask one of the staff where the gents was, “Downstairs, to the left and look out for the door with the daleks.” Marwoods do things differently, it’s the opposite of corporate with a huge personality. It’s very Brighton, very outrageous and very self assured. Most definitely not a cafe to leave to the teenagers.

For lots more postings see my blog at cafedharma.wordpress.com