• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café: Authentic Asian Cuisine in Brighton

At Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café, we celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian culinary traditions. Nestled in the vibrant Kemptown area of Brighton, our café is a warm, inviting space where flavors from across Asia come alive. We pride ourselves on serving authentic dishes crafted with love and care, from aromatic curries to refreshing cocktails like our Pina Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri. We believe food is a journey, and at Nanima, each bite tells a story. Our commitment to quality and presentation makes every visit a delightful experience, inviting guests to embark on a flavorful adventure that excites the palate.

Photos & Gallery

Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café: Reviews & Ratings

Oliver Robertson
Oliver Robertson

A wonderful place on a sunny lunchtime, with tables on the quiet street outside. The food is fresh, delicious and made with real care, with a daily changing selection of dishes. I had a grilled Szechuan salmon with noodles, crunchy raw veg and stir fried goodies, and a homemade lemonade. You can tell this is an establishment run with passion, and the staff are so friendly too. We are going to go back for their monthly supper club for sure!

Shane Blake
Shane Blake

What a place! My partner and I went for an early lunch and was pleasantly surprised! Lonnie and his wife have cultivated a unique dining experience where there is no fixed menu, meaning that every time you go, you get a surprise. I ordered the Vietnamese Pho, which set my day perfectly. A must visit!

Ellie Cater
Ellie Cater

A Hidden Gem That Feels Like Home – Nanima is Simply Unmissable While visiting me in Brighton, my Dad stumbled across Nanima - and after one incredible meal, he insisted we go back the very next day. I’ve lived here nearly seven years, and I can honestly say this is the best food I’ve had so far in Brighton. The meals are comforting, full of flavour, and clearly made with love. Nikki cooks in the back, creating magic in every dish, while her husband Lonnie welcomes you with warmth and genuine care, talking customers through what’s on that day! Together, they’ve created something truly special - more than just a meal, it feels like being invited into their home. We went back several times that week, and each visit was just as memorable. From the incredible soups to the chilli masala omelette wrap, fragrant coconut rice and vermicelli noodles, perfectly spiced mains and exquisite side dishes, homemade chai and fresh juices - everything was absolutely outstanding! Nanima is a rare find, and I already can’t wait to return.

Iona Tait
Iona Tait

Such a welcoming space! Came here for a friends birthday celebration and they made it feel like we were part of the family. The selection of food provided was delicious and explained with such enthusiasm. Definitely will be coming back to try more as the menu changes each day. Korean Salmon with stir fry vegetables was unreal

Tim DW
Tim DW

Went to Nanima for lunch today and it was delicious. They offer a wide selection of different, home made Asian food with a menu that changes daily. There is always something healthy and tasty. Been a couple of times in the past and it's always been quality. Unfortunately I'd eaten my lunch before I thought to take a picture. Some pics of the selection though. Great service too.

Maz
Maz

@nanimaasiankitchen on Instagram Brighton’s best homemade Asian cuisine. Here’s everything we had: • 3 x homemade peach ice teas - absolutely needed in this hot weather (4.25 each) • seafood laksa (prawn & fishcake) - perfect mildness, vibrant and flavourful (10.95) • malay satay salmon main (comes with rice & salad of choice), 14.95 • extra delicious bits: pancake, pastry They also have in store @blackblumdesign products! Excited to go back for another special occasion

appleshed11
appleshed11

Hidden gem in Kemptown village! This is the best Asian cuisine in the UK served by heartfelt, passionate people. Don't expect a menu as exquisite dishes are cooked fresh on a daily basis by Nicky. Husband Lonnie is handsomely hospitable and at hand to talk one through the quotidian delights. The best soup that I have ever tasted in my life was the 'Butternut squash, coconut and miso' until I invited my daughter to join me the following day when we were knocked out proper by the 'Panjabi Achari Gobi soup'. Off the scale!! Indonesian salmon, Burmese chicken, Keralan salmon, Malay noodles ... oh and the chai is like being back in India and the beers are lovely and I'm moving to live nearby because I miss the experience so much! I've been around the world but this was a diamond experience; not due to the close proximity of the summer susurrating sea (which was marvellous) but from the magic that Nicky meticulously prepares and that Lonnie generously delivers. Wow!

Daniele Penariol
Daniele Penariol

Homemade food, heartfelt service — Nanima is a true hidden gem! Nanima is one of those special places that you walk into once and instantly feel at home. Every single dish is made from scratch with so much love — you can truly taste the difference. The menu changes daily, so there’s always something new and exciting to try (and everything is incredible). Run by the lovely Nicky and Lonnie, you feel like you're visiting family — except this family makes the best international, wholesome food in town. From their homemade drinks to their zero-waste values, everything here is intentional and inspiring. It’s more than just a place to eat — it’s a full experience, filled with warmth, care, and flavour. Definitely one of Brighton’s best-kept secrets!

Location

Welcome to Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café, a culinary gem nestled in the vibrant Kemptown area of Brighton and Hove. Situated at 36 St George's Rd, this café embodies the spirit of Asian cuisine while providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for its guests.

At Nanima, each dish is carefully crafted to transport diners on a flavorful journey across Asia. The menu is a delightful fusion of classic and contemporary dishes, highlighting the rich diversity of Asian flavors. From aromatic curries to delicate dim sum, every bite promises to ignite the senses.

Menu Highlights

  • Signature Curries: Indulge in their Nepalese-inspired curries, where spices align beautifully with fresh ingredients.
  • Dim Sum: A must-try for any guest; these bite-sized delights are expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.
  • Unique Beverages: Pair your meal with an impressive selection of ciders, including Peacock Mango and Lime or Rekorderlig Strawberry and Lime, and explore signature rums like Captain Morgan Spiced Gold.
  • Craft Cocktails: The cocktail menu features an array of options, including vodka selections like Grey Goose and Absolut, ensuring a drink for every palate.

My personal favorites during my visit were the fragrant curry and the expertly crafted dim sum. The balance of flavors in the curry was exquisite, each bite revealing layers of spices woven together with care. The dim sum was light yet satisfying, perfectly complemented by the dipping sauces that added a delightful punch.

Beyond the flavors, the ambiance at Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café adds to the experience. The cozy setting invites laughter and conversation, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or a special dinner date. The staff exudes warmth and knowledge, guiding you through your culinary journey with genuine enthusiasm.

With its thoughtful dishes and inviting atmosphere, Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café is more than just a place to eat; it is a celebration of Asian cuisine that beckons food lovers back for more. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this café is a destination worth exploring.

To experience this vibrant kitchen for yourself, contact them at +44 1273 600932 for any inquiries or reservations. Step into a world of flavor at Nanima — your taste buds will thank you.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • No wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers kerbside pickup
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards