Salvage; an appreciative, reflective review.

Salvage in Hove (actually) is not just a (gorgeous) café with a deliciously rich menu; it’s a celebration of the beautifully worn and thoughtfully brewed. Inside you'll find retro bits, vintage furniture, time-softened books all mixed together under the unmistakable scent of quality coffee. Every detail feels considered. I reckon whether you're here for a slow morning (perhaps the day after a late night third date sitting on deck chairs in Preston Park watching an iconic 80s movie on a big inflatable screen?), or a long-awaited catch-up with friends, or even a solo micro-adventure (thank you for this considered and generous term, Katie), Salvage provides a sense of comfort with infinite character. 

Obviously upon arrival, before we'd even decided where to sit or been handed a menu, I ordered my coffee. I explained that I hadn't had one yet that day, and was in critical condition. I feel my needs/demands were very well received and honoured. 

After a good look around, taking too many photos for some grand purpose that hadn't yet become apparent and wondering what old treasures I could potentially take home to my new place which is tiny and charming and yes, full of my silly amounts of stuff but definitely still needs some old sh*t to build some extra spicy character... we sat, I drank my brew, and we ordered. 

I was dribbling-ly tempted by the tofu scramble, the big bagel energy, and even the Dirty Eggs (hey, don't judge, I'm a happy committed vegan but I'm not immune to a rich yolk on a sunny morning) - but in the end I went with the Healthy Brunch Bowl, as it aligned with my key principle of 'I definitely can't make this as well at home, so I'll let someone else make it for me'. 

Let's spin a spiel. The Healthy Brunch Bowl (tbh, I'd have given it a more deliciously silly name) is a fresh, filling vegan option that *salesperson voice* doesn’t compromise on flavour. Starring roasted veg, spiced chickpeas, avocado, and homemade hummus, it’s vibrant, satisfying, and thoughtfully put together. I am smug also, as it's proof that plant-based dishes can be hearty and filling. 

I have this fantasy that someday I'll either run a thriving business or own a forever home that has this kind of glorious retro multi-purpose magic living in it. I'll have my typewriter from Snoopers Paradise on a shelf, paper protruding from it with a message in faded ink - who uses typewriters anyway?  Jam jars of all shapes and sizes containing many a manner of madness; repurposed shop signage, goofy disconnected telephones, happy and well-fed cheese plants, wonky lampshades with sun-blushed seams. Everything will have its own story. Someday, that'll be me. 

Thank you for reading.

G. x