Pop in for a gingerbread latte and a mince pie

We're counting down to Christmas at The Laine Deli - and wondering when we'll find time to do our own Christmas shopping!

The North Laine area of Brighton is a great place to start; you'll find an exotic mix of kitch and classic in the collection of independent shops surrounding us.

Before your shopping trip begins, why not call in to the deli for a seasonal energy boost? With a mouthful of festive food - a mince pie, perhaps? - and a shot of gingerbread syrup in your latte, you'll be ready for the day. Or call in at lunchtime for a turkey and cranberry sandwich. Go on, treat yourself!

A last-minute Christmas party!

We know how it is. You're busy working... and all of a sudden it's Christmas!

If you've left it a little bit late to plan your office party, don't worry. Although we're already booked to provide outside catering for a number of events this December, there's still some space in our diary.

Whether you're after a party in the evening or a festive office lunch, we can turn up with everything you need. And because we're based in the heart of Brighton, it's easy for you to call in beforehand for a face-to-face chat about all your requirements.

Brighton's preparing for the ice

Last winter was, as we're sure you'll remember, pretty cold. Mind you, it didn't stop us from putting chairs out on the patio!

Although we can't predict this year's weather, we can be certain there'll be ice in Brighton. The Royal Pavilion is going to have its own Ice Rink from 13th November through until the New Year. There'll be room on the 700 square metre rink for up to 200 skaters, with a special beginners' area and Penguin-shaped skating aids to help youngsters find their feet.

Tickets can be booked via http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/ - or just pick up a hot chocolate from us and and wander down to watch the fun!

Jamie Oliver interview

There's a great interview with Jamie Oliver in The Guardian today. We just thought we'd mention it, that's all.

Vote for The Laine Deli!

If you've not already voted, we'd appreciate your support in the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2010/2011. You'll find The Laine Deli in the 'Best Sussex Eating Experience' category. It's now the fifth year of the SFDAs - and last year they received over nine thousand nominations!

The closing date for online voting is 1st October.

The city's first Local Food Week starts on Monday

Next week is Brighton and Hove's first-ever Local Food Week. It's being run by the not-for-profit Brighton & Hove Food Partnership, with events taking place from 20th to 27th September 2010.

These events include a cookery demonstration at Churchill Square Farmers Market on Wednesday and a Local Food Picnic in Preston Park on Saturday. There's also a special Apple Day in Stanmer Park on Sunday 26th September; perfect if you fancy some apple crumble washed down with a glass of apple juice!

More food fun for Brighton & Hove

Brighton & Hove has its very own foodie festival next month. It all starts on Wednesday 1st September at Brighton Racecourse with an afternoon of horse racing, a local food market, children’s activities, live food kitchen and charity Waiters Race.

There’s a food trail through the city on 4th/5th September and a Live Food Show in Pavilion Gardens on Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th September. Full details (and loads of other events) can be found on the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival website at http://www.brightonfoodfestival.com