Escargot Bakery

If you're after a proper French boulangerie in Brighton, Escargot Bakery on Martin Street is the one locals keep pointing people towards. Croissants, sourdough and pastries are made on site each morning, and it's run by two French-trained bakers. On their own telling, Etienne trained at the National Institute of Baking and Pastries in France and worked in Paris and at the oldest woodfire oven in Bordeaux, while Leonard trained in Paris.

The pastry cabinet is where most people start. The almond croissant gets mentioned constantly, and we've heard it's generous in size, with the chocolate almond version just as popular. The pain au chocolat and pain suisse have their followers too, and the cinnamon escargot and the ham and jalapeño escargot are talked about with real affection, even by people who say they don't usually go for escargots. On the savoury side, the spinach and cheese pastry is packed with filling, the jalapeño and caramelised onion twists are a favourite, and the mushroom quiche has a following of its own. Baguettes and sourdough loaves are a big part of the story, and one local called the baguette as good as you'll find anywhere.

It's a walk-in bakery with a few stools inside and tables out the front, so you can take your pastry away or sit on the footpath with a coffee and watch the street go by. Coffee gets a good word, which isn't always the case at a bakery. Takeaway and dine-in are both on offer, there's catering if you need it, and online ordering for pickup is available if you'd rather not leave it to chance. Free street parking is nearby, and it's an easy walk from the train station.

Staff are friendly and quick, and people mention fair prices and generous portions. Everything is baked fresh from the oven, and the range is a small one, so popular items can sell out. Locals suggest getting in early for the brioche, bacon épi and croissants. Check the opening hours before you head over, as the shop can close once the trays are empty.