Sub-Station in Lewes

We call this our 'Hiker's Retreat'. When we are down from London and heading over the South Downs, this is our starting point. Such a friendly & twee place. Nothing is too much trouble, any changes accepted with a smile and a kind word. The owner seems very interested in hiking routes, lovely to chat with. P.s. the "Secret" Vegan menu is amazing!

Nice lunchtime food and full on banter from the owner and his regulars which is pretty unusual for the South more a Northern thing.

Great little place. Everyone was friendly and the food and hot chocolate were great.

Absolutely fantastic, best coffee in town, in addition to standard breakfasts the owner will serve what you want. Also his conversation is great - different to anywhere else we have ever been. We are now regulars

Don’t really know where to start with this review. My wife and I were looking for a coffee and a snack and so sauntered down Place Lane and came across this beauty. We live in Seaford and have on so many occasions walked past Substation which has always seemed a bustling little hive of activity occupied by local people. I suppose it’s a bit like The Local Shop for Local People in Royston Vasey. Except, it also welcomes people from outside of Seaford as long as you’re polite and not too precious about your choices. This is a reassuringly old fashioned establishment which serves excellent coffee – don’t come here if you want a mini Frappuccino with deluxe orchid milk over a medium roasted avocado slice. Do come here if you want an honest to goodness Americano or Latte or just a cup of coffee. Your host, Darryl, will gladly oblige – and probably provide a running commentary on who is in the shop, their habits, traits and eccentricities. And that is the amazing charm of this little gem. We entered on the off chance that it was open for food. It was after all, after 2 30 pm. We negotiated an uncomplicated snack – in this case a muffin with egg and bacon. Darryl was up to this challenge. Darryl’s barista art was also a topic for conversation. He presented a beautiful latte with a love heart design in the froth – his artistic analysis was worthy of any London gallery. An intense conversation then took place as to its attributes and from what perspective we look at objects. Darryl made a very worthwhile observation that although the design was indeed a love heart, it could also be seen as a pair of buttocks. A very fair point very well made and one with which my wife agreed. She said the coffee tasted great as well. So wins all round. We then began an interesting conversation with a couple of locals who are clearly part of the furniture. I shall call them Norbert and Ted for the sake of decency, privacy and dignity. Darryl provided observations about them and they filled in the gaps. This is the blessing (or curse) of living in a small community where everyone knows each other. It just made Substation a more friendly place to be. We were regaled about Norbert’s ailing health and his Covid experience. He added theatrical tragedy to this by moaning and rocking backwards and forwards at his table. I think he was enjoying the attention and drama. At this point Ted, who had been gleefully filling us in about Norbert’s failing health – stood up and began to massage Norbert. The massage was on his neck. I’m glad I looked because the sounds Norbert were making suggested something a bit more intimate. Norbert happily informed us that he has not had any sexual urges for 25 years and that his genitals have ‘no feeling down there whatsoever.’ I didn’t know whether to feel honoured by having knowledge of this private information or to feel glad I didn’t have a sausage in my muffin. The great thing was that both Darryl and Ted nodded knowingly and sympathetically during Norbert’s disclosure. Darryl observed that ‘I put up with this every day.’ He didn’t seem bothered though – in fact this is a measure of the warmth and acceptance of this wonderful corner of Seaford. Norbert’s death throws soon ceased when he and Ted were joined by another mate – I shall call him Jethro, again for the sake of privacy and dignity. He looked a tad bedraggled and surprised to be in the shop but nevertheless began a running diatribe about the useless political parties and the upcoming election. He was quite insightful in political theory and this was supported by Darryl’s blunt analysis as to their various qualities. I’m not going to expand but the use of the word ‘blunt’ would rhyme with his judgement of their various personalities – he was very accurate. The essence of this café/shop is the wonderful selection of subs- these are made on the spot and are top quality. The food is warm and tasty. The coffee excellent. The ambience is also a big plus – Substation thrives on its eccentricity and doesn’t hide from it. This is a big must if you’re visiting Seaford or if you live there. It really is a piece of Seaford which is easily missed – it is small and you can walk past it easily – if you get the chance try it. Your life will be different. Darryl, Norbert, Ted and Jethro. It was a joy to meet you – a unique experience which was a cross between Last of the Summer Wine and The League of Gentleman. I will return. (If I’m allowed after this review.)

Food and service 5 stars, but I wish I could give even more than 5 stars for atmosphere, absolute delight of a place. My wife and I stopped by to grab some delicious (and imaginative) subs on our way to the Seven sisters walk, and while we waited we also had a yummy cheese on toast to fuel our trip. The cozy atmosphere and friendly owner and regulars made us want to stay even longer. Really enjoyed our subs with the glorious views, and we are sure to become regulars ourselves, even if only once a year, thanks again.

amazing sandwich and the gentleman serving is a great personality and takes the time to chat

I recently enjoyed the best bacon sandwich I've had in a very long time! The flavor was spot on! However, I have given it 4 stars because, at £7 for four rashers of bacon, it seemed a bit pricey to me.

Frappé of frappes. Absolutely gorgeous frappes every time I come in never fails to disappoint thank you Daryl. Also does amazing food and coffees

A word of advice to the unsuspecting public (us, before today). If you want a regular, boring café, go somewhere else... Or at least order breakfast before 11.30 and don't deviate from the menu. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of banter, come in late, ask for something subtly different from what's on offer, don't forget the oat milk in your latte and ask if Charlie has been in. Also, be sure to check if Tony took any days off during COVID 🤣🤣🤣. Seriously, a delicious and unexpected interlude on our first trip to Sleaford.

Super moment, le patron est très sympathique et prépare ses sandwichs et boissons avec amour. Un petit endroit bien agréable et typique de l'Angleterre ! Un grand merci pour les conseils afin de voir le panorama des seven sisters, nous avons fait une magnifique promenade depuis la plage de Seaford !

Was spectacular, kinda like going to a mates house.

A real ' MUST GO TO ' if you are in Seaford, a full on experience, come for the food, stay for the laughs. You get to decide what you want and how you want it, a real bespoke service. A real community feeling whilst you eat.

God mat i hyggelige omgivelser .. hyggelig vertskap med erketypisk britisk humør .. anbefales på det sterkeste 😎👍❤️🇬🇧 Maten er av den typiske Britiske kaffetypen med Engelsk frokost, burger og snabb lunsjretter.

Wonderful find. Excellent food and atmosphere. We were utterly charmed by the owner and other customers, and very imptessed by the food and coffees

A real gem, Daryl is a born showman, its a great community atmosphere. Spectacular food beautifully cooked, we asked for 4 breakfasts after 11:30, and the comedy show started, we even got our breakfasts cooked to perfection, it's dog friendly too. Another visit, another good time had by all, went for the cheesey chips and was stuck into them before I could get a photo. But atmosphere in there as always is great, Charlie

Aways happy to see you great sevice keep it up thanks phil

This place is amazing. Subs and milkshakes to die for. The banter with staff and customers is just beyond. A true gem of a cafe.

EAT HERE! Amazing subs and frappé, fantastic atmosphere but most of all go for the banter, staff and customers are brilliant fun!

Weĺl what can I say... 5 stars doesn't cover what The Sub Station offers! It is really a little hidded gem in the heart of seaford. Daryl offers such a warm, genuine welcome accompained with an amazing menu of baguettes , breakfasts, burgers and an array of side dishes. The café also offers a wide range of fabulous coffees and cold drinks inculding amazing granitas (my personal favourite Pina Colda) and flavoured frappés. This café really is a little slice of magic and you must visit if you are exloring Seaford. A great menu, coupled with fabulous service and filled with such great commuinty spirit. I promise you will leave this cafe with a little smile and sashay...

Got a selection of Subs and extra chips also a coffee which my wife loved so much she got one to go afterwards. Doesn't scrimp on the portions and the banter with the customers is great. Owner 1as great craic and defo the place to go for breakfasts etc or the massive selection of Subs. Cannot fault the place at all ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My roll was lovely, excellent service.

Delicious Full English breakfast! Generous portions and great value. Lovely people to chat to - the owner previously starred on the X factor so had some interesting stories to tell! We will definitely be going back very soon :)

If you haven’t been to see Daryl at sub-station you are missing out on a banging breakfast, delicious subs and reshot grounded coffee 😋. If you fancy something sweet to drink have a Frappe , so many variations! My family like crispy bacon 🥓 Daryl does your order to your desires What ya waiting for come and see him

We had lunch at this little shop and received superb service. The food is good and the owner gave us a treat of a cold drink.

Amazing place the banter while you wait for the delicious food is second to none. We were made to feel welcome and included. The breakfast was one of the best had. Had to go back for a sub and it didn't disappoint. From your friends up north happy valley ☺️

A friendly and happy little place, made so by the enigmatic owner, Daryl. Great food and coffee, worth a visit. Plenty of Vegetarian and Vegan options too, arrive wary on weekends as it gets busy!

Great little cafe with great banter and good food and good coffee will definitely visit again when we are working near seaford from the boys from PETWORTH

Daz is a fun and friendly guy and the breakfast is top notch

This is a hidden gem, Daryl the gaffer is an enigma. The food is excellent, and very well priced. 👍

Very friendly food was out of this world, the atmosphere was the best , definitely going back see you soon

Fantastic food, even better conversation with Daryl - it may be small but sub station has a huge heart and personality . Would definitely recommend it

Great place and a real community feel,good chat and laughs courtesy of Daryl the gaffer, a hidden gem

Absolutely delicious breakfast 🍳 and delicious roasted coffee , I have a latte and it’s the creamiest and delightful coffee I’ve ever tasted. I’m very fussy so he always looks after me and family Highly recommend A****

Another excellent visit to this small Well run café. The owner /chef Darryl is extremely personable. And food cooked to perfection Wide choice of subs and burgers on menu. I chose the blue cheese burger today. Highly recommended. And his regular local customers prove this. Thank you

We Both had a very tasty sandwich, I can’t fault the food or the friendly service. Great little business, well done guys!

Very scrummy breakfast 🍳 staff friendly and cater to your needs . I should know as I’m fussy 😘 I like hard eggs n crispy bacon 🥓

Brilliant Host and Cafe. Really warm welcome from the cafe owner. He made us feel like old friends within moments of being there. English breakfast was huge and was cooked perfectly. I love coffee and the coffee was superb. Felt it was great value for...

Banging breakfast 🍳 cooks my breakfast to how I like it ( very fussy lol 😆) great guy n ya can have a laugh too … oh the coffee is delicious too 🤤

Tucked off the main high street, great cafe. Perfect bacon sandwich and coffee. Friendliest welcome and great chat, highly recommended.

Owner was super friendly and helpful. Really made our day! Food was made fast and was really tasty. Will definitely be back :))

Perfect taste and cheap price 만약 씨포드에 온다면 꼭 방문해보세요 사장님이 친절하고 양도 많고 맛있어요 세븐시스터즈 트래킹 전 필수코스

I walked into the place after being turned away from 3 other Seaford cafe's, 3.15 pm not being a good time to find a kitchen still open, and despite having already just turned off both the hot plate and the fryer, the owner/chef said cooking...

If you want an excellent breakfast or subs - Daryls the man to see . Delicious coffee made from barista coffee machine. Great laugh with your breakfast 🍳

Best sausage and bacon sandwich ever. Even made extra crispy bacon for me. Even the breakfasts my family had looked amazing. Thank you Daryl

Banging brekkie you won’t be disappointed xx yummy 🤤food and great service with Banter A**** I’m quite fussy and he knows what I like before I even say it . Come visit soon

Sub station..... what a place Daryl is a right character the owner. The coffee and food is 10/10. Best ground coffee in Sussex. Must be tried .

If you ever find the start of your day in Seaford, then Sub-Station is the place to go to be served up a loaded 'morning glory' in the most hospitable and cheerfully sarcastic way by Daryl. Then sent on your way questioning why there aren't...

Absolute legendary! Great place, great food and what a hero Daryl is! Keep up the good work. We’ll be back again soon! All the best

Excellent breakfast, delicious 😋 great service A*** Owner is great and listens to your requests 😁 Great cafe and have a great laugh as well

Very nice.Went here on advice of Trip Advisor. Nice place nice food. Chef was a little Grumpy but a good character.Fairly priced

If you haven’t had a breakfast by Daryl then what are you waiting for as it’s delicious and one of the nicest by far 😁A*****

The food is amazing my mum and I went there to eat and it was incredible good food!!!

Although the Kitchen was shut, the chef still kindly offered to accommodate my needs of lunch. He kindly made me a cheese burger, at a fast service too. The burger itself looked spectacular, definitely worth the money! This place never seems to disappoint, even the customers make it worthwhile. Definitely Impressed with this place.

This place is our second home, we absolutely love the food and atmosphere, the only cafe I've been in where the all the customers are included in the conversation and banter.Daryll is amazing, best place in Seaford by far.Best breakfast and coffee around for reasonable prices.We have made many friends just from coming hear.

absolutely delicious sandwiches made fresh to order, incredible service, really friendly and welcoming staff. If you are in the area I definitely recommend you go. There's so much choice, my family tried 4 of the sandwiches on offer and they were all fantastic.

5* rating Absolutely delicious and great service . If you haven’t tried his coffee or subs then pop on down and give them a whirl as you won’t be disappointed!

Atmosphere and food are amazing. Best sandwich I have in a while. With friendly service it’s best place in town to go

I went here last year and with my friends this year. Really friendly staff in here, brilliant vibe and some absolutely delicious food at a great price. Definitely coming back again next time I'm in the area.

This is the best experience I've ever had at a café/restaurant such amazing food at a cheap price best atmosphere I've ever had going anywhere too eat chatting too everyone here as if I've know then for years not half an hour I'm always gonna remember this place and be a returning customer the people are so kind and has made my day!!

Came with friends on our camping trip and all I can say is that the food was amazing and the service was impeccable. Tasty, filling and wonderful food paired with the friendly and personable service.

Visited sub station on a number of times now. Always seem to leave with a smile on my face knowing I’m having some lovely food and the service is always friendly. Give it a try

Cannot recommend Sub Station enough. We stumbled across it while looking for a late lunch. Even though he was about to close he stayed open so we could eat. Fantastic food & really friendly staff!

Awesome grub perfect rolls etc. assuming chefs not hanging, otherwise order something easy. 👍

Yet again, Daryl , hits the mark.I am such a fussy mare but I got my breakfast with all my little quirks.I love sub station you can go in alone n brought into the convo's that are going on in the cafe.The banter is almost as good as your food.The coffee is the best in sussex.Fresh beans ,fresh taste and the wake call you need some mornings. Keep it up Daryl.we love u.

Delicious sub. Would recommend The Cocky Pig :) The caramel frappe was the best frappe I’ve ever had.

Absolutely lush tastes amazing. Lovely staff can have a laugh with him. Wouldn’t go anywhere else. Not too pricey either

Best phili steak sub ever! Can't beat the service. Always a friendly welcome

Lovely frappe taste so much like a snickers bar, service was fast and efficient. Even made a hot chocolate which looked lovely

Was so pleased when we noticed Sub-Station was open Easter Monday. Food never disappoints, we had chicken, stuffing and cranberry and the tuna/chess melt .... delicious washed down with a latte. Daryl the owner is fab-u-lous, well worth the drive from Brighton for the food and the great service. We will be back very soon.

The owner is Very friendly and sub is delicious and fresh. Would love to recommend to others who travel to seeford,

Well.... what can I say.Friday morning needed Daryl to give me my usual wake up. So off to the cafe to see him and grab his sausage and have a roll.What a quality sausage he has and the fresh rolls are amazing. Love the banter and so many wonderful things that you can choose from.Coffee is great to wake you up after a long night too.

Well what can one say 🥰 delish 🤤 food and great service with a smile. Yes ya may have to wait a little but it is definitely worth it A***

Cracking food, great service. One of seafords little gems. I highly recommend a visit, a thumbs up from me!

Amazing tasty good quality Breakfast delivered! Nothing is too much trouble! I contacted Sub Station as I had fractured my hip and my husband has been amazing so wanted to treat him on his birthday!We live about 6 miles away but they were happy to arrange delivery and were so helpful and flexible. Breakfast was still hot when it arrived and their delivery driver is lovely and very friendly! I can’t wait until I am fully Mobil and we are out of lockdown so I can pay them a visit!

Stayed in Newhaven for a week and so glad I found this place for lunch. Darryl is a real character that knows his subs. Loads of different options to choose from to suit any mood. After just a couple of visits the banter was flying and it felt like I’d been going in there for years!! Top shop, top nosh, top bloke!!

Absolutely amazing sandwiches. Gives a good laugh. Makes the best snickers frappe. Definitely recommend coming here

Well.... what can I say. Great breakfast in a great place. Owner is amazing so helpful and has a fab vibe. Has to be tried to believe

This is a Little gem of a place in seaford the Subs are mouth watering and the Atmosphere is very nice the owner is friendly and And full of life 10/10

Love Sub Station.. It's our very own Seaford community café.. The place to go for fab food and coffee and conversation... Either with friends or on your own. Always great people to chat to... And lots of laughs and smiles with Daryl the owner. 😊. Update July 2020.... Sub Station is now open again with Social Distancing and additions to the menu.... So good to be back having coffee with Daryl and family and friends... A new look inside but still a friendly and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of food and drinks and ice cream to brighten up our days after months of Lockdown! 😎🌞☕🍦🍔🍳🥓 Update November 2020...we are in Lockdown 2 and Daryl has kept Sub Station open for takeaways.. Everything available from the menu.. Either phone or pass by.... Meet a friend and take cappuccino into the Churchyard and catch up with the News from round the town! Well done Daryl... Keeping our spirits high! 😎 ☀️ 💛

Excellent visit. Day out from Brighton. A Nice surprise. Met Daryl the co owner.Great banter freindly service. I Was with my best freind Carol.we had an excellent cup of tea.Yorkshire tea ,my favourite.Will be back next time in Seaford.And try some food. Thanks Recommended

Fantastic welcome from the mother and son enterprise. Nothing is too much trouble and will be returning for my lunch.

What a wonderful place. There is an amazing atmosphere where the towns people meet together to have a laugh and delicious food at a wonderful price. Definitely going to be a regular customer. Darrell is a fantastic chief.

What a wonderful place. Daryl is a character ,breakfast with banter. The food is amazing and a great deal for a great price. Seeing is believing , give it a go!!

Such a great variety of excellent food and customers, a perfect combination for the most wonderful atmosphere . This place is so much more than a fast food outlet (not usually so fast anyway), but once you are in there, you won't be in any hurry to leave.Anyone can go there alone and have exceptionally tasty, good value food and get a warm homely welcome.

Ask for anything on or off the menu and if the ingredients are in stock you will be accommodated. Nothing is too much trouble. It’s a value for money place with a friendly service welcoming locals and visitors alike. The banter is entertaining and worth a visit. Will definitely be back.

If you haven’t eaten here, you need to reevaluate your life choices. Great banter, proper brew and EXCELLENT subs.

A great range of subs (we sampled 6 different ones between us during our short stay in Seaford - but there are many left for future trips - all tasty and fantastically named). Accompanied by good coffee (and a particularly exotic granita). To top it all Daryl makes you feel so welcome from the moment you walk in.

Great breakfast and even better banter! Daryl is chef,waiter and stand up comedian all rolled into one. We will be returning before gong back home to London

Great café! Loved it. Brilliant comedy double act between the chef and his mother! Had us in stitches! Food was cooked from scratch and really fresh. Be patient. It's worth it! Top breakfast. Sent us back to Leamington Spa (Royal!) totally stuffed. Kids loved the whole experience too, the chef was brilliant with them. Clearly a popular place with the locals as very busy when we were there. If I lived in Seaford I'd be a regular!

We came in looking for a Wi-Fi and found the best coffee ever and awesome service with humour, care, cycling paths advise... and going the extra mile Daryl... So we came back for more! The food was absolutely delicious, good portions for a good price and customer centred approach. The atmosphere Daryl created was warm, welcoming and full of joy. Everyone came out happier than when they came in - what an amazing gift Daryl has in communicating with people. Absolutely awesome place! We'll be back again.

Called in this morning for the best coffee since I left home (locally blended) before cycling to the Birling Gap and loved the atmosphere created by loads of locals calling in (always a good sign) and the hilarious names of the foot long sandwiches. At our request, Daryl kindly made us up our very own vegetarian versions (though he says he draws the line at chickpeas) which kept us going all day. Delicious. Not an experience to be missed if you’re in Seaford and in search of a picnic.

Lovely breakfast, nice coffee and all served with good humour from Daryl. Just dropped by as passing through Seaford and we will be back. Really want to try some of the subs.

Went along for a couple of milkshakes for me and the boss just as they were closing. They very kindly stayed open and dished up the most delicious raspberry and white chocolate milkshake I've ever tasted. Highly recommended, really friendly service. My boss said her Oreo milkshake was amazing too. Also recommended is their 'fromage a trois' toasted cheese baguette. If you're in seaford and want a bite to eat - you should definitely visit!

Excellent food and service with a smile.. Highly recommended a visit. Brilliant best place in town wide varied menu

Went in today for a tandoori chicken sub. Was fantastic. Was very busy but Daryl cracked on and done my family everything we neededMy Mrs got the Philly cheese steak. Was equally as good. The kids had the best ice cream ice ever tasted. And all good a good price. Was amazing. Go there if you're passing you won't be disappointed

We found this gem today while visiting Seaford and will definately be visiting again! Best frappe I’ve ever had, delicious sandwich and the owner is such a lovely and funny guy! Amazing little place!

Brilliant food, quality service, and excellent banter! The best English breakfast I've had in seaford!

Its very hard to describe this hidden gem, home away from home, Darryl is always willing and eager to make any meal we want and anything fresher is still growing.His friendly banter is all part of the experiance and its fab.only the night sky will have more stars as this is a super star experiance.

Cant fault this place. At all. Freshly made, whatever you want you can have. Streets ahead of places like subway. The only place to get Sandwiches in seaford.