The Argus - "Opening nibbles"
"Brighton's numerous purveyors of 'healthy' food will be keeping a close eye on the fortunes of the city's first gourmet superstore, which opens today.
The Real Eating Company in Western Road, promises a vast selection of foods over several floors, a food book shop, a take-away counter and a 35 seat restaurant.
Owner Helena Hudson, a former advertising executive from London, hopes this multi-faceted approach to business will ensure a steady stream of customers.
She Said: 'The idea is not just reliant on one part of the business for trade.
'It's quite an accepted thing in London now because it makes good business sense.
'People like to buy into the fact they see what's being cooked, buy the raw ingredients and a recipe book and try it at home. Everybody can take something with them.'
Brighton has numerous delicatessens and an above average selection of cafés and restaurants, which pride themselves on serving good food.
But none has been on this scale and, unlike many of its rivals, The Real Eating Company has not limited itself to organic or vegetarian food.
Helena, 37, added: "One of our selling points is offering the best food from Sussex and across the world which, unfortunately, is not always organic.
'I know there is a real organic, hippyish culture in Brighton but I have done my homework.
'I would not have invested so much time and money into this if I did not think it would work.
'We have already had people coming into the building saying they have been waiting for something like this to open for a long time.'
The prospects look good. Already, before any advertising, more than 100 people have signed up to the company's mailing list via its web site. The new store, which will create 20 jobs, is housed in a Grade II, four-storey Victorian building, which used to be the premises of the White Art Gallery.
The Food Guide - The Argus
You’ll be lucky to find a free seat, thanks to foodies trying out options from the continually changing and locally-sourced menu.
Little wonder then that the venue was twice awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in recognition of its provision of good food at moderate prices.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Real Eating Company boasts three separate menus, starting the day with dishes such as eggs Benedict, French toast and the classic full English breakfast.
At lunchtime there’s a cafe style menu with fresh fish, pie and mash and potted crab, and in the evenings, it’s the haunt of trendy, professional couples looking for fine food.
Delicious foodstuffs are also available to take home from the deli.
