Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Bars in Brighton and Hove
Our top picks
Bars in Brighton Guide
Looking for the best bars in Brighton?
When it comes to living it up large, Brighton has no shortage of options for bars in Brighton. In a city with more bars per capita than any other in the UK, the competition for serving superior drinks and cocktails keeps every bar tender or mixologist on their toes.
In no particular order here is our guide to bars in Brighton which include stand-alone bars as well as Brighton restaurants with a strong bar offering..
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Brighton Clubs
Pubs in Brighton
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Bars and Cocktail Bars in Brighton
A hidden gem in Brighton’s North Laine, Bar Valentino is equal parts sexy and fun. Entry to the bar is on New Road next to the Theatre Royal and you’ll need to ring the buzzer to enter. Once upstairs the striking Deco interiors have a 1920s speakeasy feel and set the mood for drinking. Cocktails are what this bar does best, the bartenders are champions of the trade and the result is stunning. You can expect the classics, enjoy new and unique compositions and trust that when it comes to combining flavours these guys are at the top of their game. There’s even a balcony (not quite a roof terrace) for you to enjoy them on.
We can’t resist a low-lit neon spiked bar that plays 80’s tropical beats into the late evening and serves cocktails like nowhere else in Brighton. Running on a low waste policy the team create a seasonal ever-changing menu focussing on local and quirky foraged ingredients. With cocktails being created using what’s in season and on hand it’s a case of here today, gone tomorrow, Another reason to love this bar on Preston Street is all the home-brew goodies on offer – think sunflower seed orgeat, coffee liqueur, sustainable citrus alternatives and vegan hacks all made from scratch. This small bar puts in restaurant level-prep.
Experience uniquely crafted cocktails infused with a sense of theatre, meticulously prepared using quality ingredients and authentic Japanese spirits. Blossoms Brighton stands as the ‘izakaya’ of the Lanes – an inviting Japanese bar and restaurant perfect for gathering with friends after work, celebrating special occasions over drinks, or enjoying a romantic date night. Their award-winning bar keeps guests returning for the tantalising cocktails, complemented by an exceptional wine and sake list, a diverse beer selection, and enticing spirit-free cocktails.
Cocktail by name and cocktails by nature, The Brighton Cocktail Company have taken their name and run with it. Like the ‘chicken and the egg’ we don’t know which came first, but what we do know is that this Seven Dials-based bar has a progressive beverage offering – with all spirits being from independent suppliers – inclusive – cocktails are available with zero or low ABV spirits – and they’ve crafted the food menu to pair perfectly with the drinks. You can expect sharing boards, flatbread pizza, salads and lots more delicious dishes fit for a king….or queen.
Helm Gallery is a fantastic spot for enjoying cocktails, thanks to its extremely well-curated drinks menu rich with seasonal craft cocktails, fine wines, and select beers. Located at the corner of Jubilee Street and North Road, this vibrant venue combines a world-class art gallery with a chic hybrid bar, creating a unique and stylish ambiance. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing seasonal cocktail or exploring their excellent wine list curated by Enotria, Helm Gallery offers a delightful blend of art and mixology in the heart of Brighton’s cultural quarter. Look out for their DJ nights on a Friday!
The Kemptown Klub is a bijou private members establishment for the over-25s. Open to new members at no charge, and catering primarily to the local LGBTQ+ community (though welcoming to all), The Klub’s ground floor boasts a bar and lounge offering a great selection of hand-mixed cocktails plus continental beers, cornish cider and wine. The bar area is a great spot for friendly chat and local gossip while the cosy lounge area at the back is given over to cosy banquettes. There’s also a slew of fun, regular events including quizzes, singalongs, bingo and games nights.
With its staggeringly high ceilings, vast windows and elegant decor, Brighton’s wood-panelled Metropole Bar offers the perfect backdrop for great cocktails. Using premium spirits and mixers, the brilliant bartenders curate a changing menu of signature and classic cocktails, which are all remarkably good value. There is house-made vermouth, organic gin and vodka plus specialist vegan cocktails which use plant-based foams and other innovative ingredients to produce tantalising flavour profiles and mouth-feel. There are also lovely mocktails. Cocktail masterclasses can be arranged on enquiry.
Arcobaleno in Kemptown is a multifaceted venu serving a fabulous selection of signature cocktails which change seasonally. There’s generally a theme drawing on a cultural reference that’s close to the LGBTQ+ community Besides that the well-stocked bar and skilled mixologists can shake you up a classic concoction should that be more your style. Lots of live entertainment from local talent makes this a fun place to sip cocktails with friends and take in anything from drag shows to comedy nights.
Twisted Lanes boasts the most comprehensive cocktail list in the city. With dozens of options, including all the classics, twists on classics, and original concoctions, there’s something for everyone. The menu changes seasonally, and the team is happy to create custom drinks on request. Behind the bar, the ‘mad lab’ of spirits offers endless possibilities. Don’t miss the super-fresh mojito with Brighton Gin. The menu also includes around 60 mocktails, and many cocktails can be made alcohol-free. A fine selection of wines is also available. A breakfast or brunch menu is served 9-2pm, then from 2pm til late their small plates menu is available.
With half the MEATliquor name being dedicated to drinks you’d be right to expect maximum effort in the drink department! The York Place based cult Brighton burger bar (yes cocktails and burgers is the thing) is uber cool, infinitely creative and offers a one-stop-shop for fun fuelled by great drinks and food. The cocktails here, as you would expect, go from boozy to really boozy. You’ll find classic spirit led favourites or for the more adventurous the signature blends offer a deep dive into hedonism. As well as hard shakes, which are seductively indulgent and If you want it hard and fast then try the shooters!
Apiary in Brighton offers a unique bar experience with a focus on honey and bee-inspired creations. The stylish and inviting venue reflects the owners’ passion for beekeeping. Sample cocktails include the Honeygroni, Wildflower Fizz, and Crocus. Apiary’s bar menu celebrates the natural sweetness of honey, adding a delightful twist to classic cocktails in a warm, buzzing atmosphere.
Small plates are also available, making Apiary the perfect spot for drinks and bites, with honey at the heart of each meticulously crafted creation.
Embark on a journey 450ft above the Brighton seafloor and taste the spirit of the sea with Seascape’s menu of speciality theatrical cocktails at the Brighton i360. Crafted by their expert mixologists, these enchanting concoctions are designed to excite and delight. Indulge in a selection of mouth-watering mocktails for a non-alcoholic alternative. Enjoy limitless journeys with spectacular panoramic views, experiencing Brighton’s twinkling lights from above. Your ticket includes multiple pod trips throughout the evening and your first cocktail in the price, making for an unforgettable night at Seascape.
Luxuriously decorated Skylark cocktail bar is located on the first floor of Shelter Hall. The modern meets deco inspired interiors create a space that evokes class and sophistication and the bar also benefits from the panoramic sea views and access to all seven of the Shelter Hall kitchens. Drinks here are mixed to perfection, spirit-led cocktails and bespoke mixes provide an exquisite menu for you to enjoy and there is no shortage of stunning wines to indulge in. Skylark is a Brighton seafront bar also available for exclusive hire.
For those of you looking for an uber cool, super exclusive place to enjoy a masterfully mixed cocktail then you needn’t look further than Ink at etch. Set underneath Steven Edwards’ acclaimed Hove restaurant etch the cocktail bar furthers the impeccable reputation for excellence. You can expect classic favourites made to perfection and of course, the highly regarded innovation from the flagship restaurant has been inherited by the bar. They’re reservations only so make sure you book ahead if you are planning on impressing a date or celebrating a birthday in this bodacious bar.
Blink and you’ll miss it, so make sure you have your wits about you when seeking out this little gem of a cocktail bar. Twisted by name and twisted by nature, their extensive cocktail menu offers unique twists on much loved classics. Its cosy, vibey and inclusive atmosphere makes it a great location in the Lanes to hang on with friends and spend evenings sipping on boozy beverages and should you get hungry you’ll be delighted to find they offer a tailored menu of bar snacks and pizzas.
Winner of the best cocktail bar in 2023 at the Brighton Restaurant Awards. Nestled in a side street just off the Old Steine and Kemptown Their success is built on an exceptional cocktail list created by some of the most talented mixologists in Brighton, including Manager, Mikey. With more awards such as ‘Best New Bar‘ at the Brighton Bartender awards rolling in it’s no wonder you’re advised to book a table, and yes you heard us right – you can book in, rock up and enjoy table service all night long – no more jostling at the bar. Bliss.
A worthy mention in our Bars in Brighton listing, The Black Dove on St James’ Street is a laid-back hostelry with quirky décor and basement DJs. The ideal place to lubricate tired vocal chords and soothe worn-out limbs in eclectic and sumptuous surroundings. The stereo plays a healthy rotation of be-bop, Jamaican ska, cool jazz, delta blues, Afrocentric, 30s/40s/50s vocal greats and contemporary beat music. Located in the middle of Kemptown.
Restaurants Serving Great Cocktails
If you like a good cocktail then you must try them at Tinto Taperia. Their good friends from Bar Valentino, located above the restaurant, have created a cocktail list to accompany your fabulous Spanish evening. Tinto Taperia is an award winning, independent Spanish restaurant serving exquisite food. It’s centrally located and next to The Theatre Royal so, if you’re looking for a pre-theatre drink, the cocktails here are a must! The easy-going, intimate restaurant seats groups for up to six, making this a great spot to meet friends over a drink or for a romantic date night.
Burnt Orange on Middle Street is a stylish Brighton restaurant and bar that pitches itself as a grownup hangout for Brighton that’s open all day and just the right amount of the night. It’s easy to find yourself settling into the luxury here, with big comfy seats and music that’s just the right pitch. Cocktails are skillfully mixed and offer a good range of seriousness and fun. The bar with its views of the open kitchen is a perfect spot to perch, pick over a few nibbles and enjoy a tour of the cocktail menu. Voted the best restaurant in Brighton in 2022 and 2023.
Bohemia is tucked away in the winding Lanes, hiding from many its three floors of bar, diner and roof terraces. Despite this, Bohemia is all about bold noticeable looks, pulling in crowds of style-conscious revellers. Drinks are bold statements here too, with cocktails that utilise as much pyrotechnics, dry ice and UV lighting as you’d expect from a Las Vegas headline show. Luckily it’s not all smoke and mirrors with the Bohemia cocktails delivering plenty of fun, exceptionally drinkable mixes both new and old.
Cyan is an all-day Brighton restaurant and bar in The Grand, mixing splendour with casual social vibes suited to remote workers and party-goers alike. The Brighton food and drink menu draws heavily on local producers so you’ll see plenty of brands from the city gracing plate and cocktail glass. While the new-look venue is vivid in cyan hues, the iconic central bar and four marble pillars that are a feature of the original building have been preserved, giving a striking old-meets-new look.
Cocktails are a big deal at Embers and it’s no wonder when you know the pedigree of the team. The manager previously created magic behind the bar at The Plotting Parlour while the bartender recently received a Rising Star Award.
The bar is stocked with top quality spirits and ingredients made in house and sourced locally. Goldstone Rum has created a fabulous bespoke rum for the restaurant. There’s also a great, compact wine list.
Sophisticated Brighton seafront drinking location by day and late-night buzzing bar by night, Ohso really do suit whatever occasion you catering too. Enjoy an Aperol Spritz on a sunny afternoon overlooking Brighton Palace Pier, or meet friends for a boogie and a beer during the evening. Choose from a well-stocked bar all day with thoughtful drink options suiting all tastes.
Located opposite the British Airways i360, with spectacular sea views, The award-winning Salt Room is a stunning modern British seafood and grill restaurant celebrating the fruits of the sea. During the summer months, their seafront terrace is opened up for alfresco dining and drinking, or otherwise, the modern bar welcomes guests just after a tipple. The same seasonality and innovation that is applied to the menu finds its way into the cocktails, with a selection of drinks changing through the year and with a hint of earthy herbs and sea spices sprinkled throughout. The taste of the sea is never far away with this Brighton seafront restaurant. The Salt Room also offer a cocktail masterclass.
Tucked away around a corner of lively Ship Street you’ll find Post House. Outwardly modest but step through the door and the venue unfolds. The first thing you’ll notice is the grand marble-topped bar that wraps its way around the room. The room itself is a stylish blend of restored original features and fashionable contemporary interiors. If you’re looking for a classic cocktail made to perfection then you’ve hit the jackpot. Drinks here are made to an excellent standard, the staff clearly know what they’re doing – the proof is in the pudding – or in this case the martini*. Brighton cafe restaurant in the day time.
*other cocktails are available. Of course.
The Coppa Club screams cool with its colourful interior and all-day dining ethos. The ‘stay all-day’ vibes here are helped by some of the comfiest looking seating in town, a killer menu and a delicious cocktail menu. Prop yourself up at the bar, order a ‘Winter Mojito’ or a ‘Coppa Colada’ and enjoy your evening while nibbling on some snacks from the bar menu. During the summer, their outside terrace is going to a popular one to sip on an Aperol Spritz or two…A bar also well known for its Brighton Igloos.
From Thursday to Saturday only, Trading Post in Kensington Gardens opene their doors to some evening entertainment. See your favourite North Laine based cafe transformed into a cocktail lounge and indulge in some of their delicious house made mixes. Being the coffee king of the Laines, you can of course expect a great selection of Brighton artisan coffee led cocktails, several seasonal signatures and a good selection of classic boozy cocktails too. Going boozeless? No worries, the team has put together four fantastic mocktails for you to enjoy, and a Bloody Shame is one of them!
Looking for a pub with personality that also does out of this world Plant Based cocktails? The Roundhill Pub might just hit the spot! This gorgeous pub is all about great flavour and good times, and their stellar drinks offering is Vegan friendly. Whether you are looking for a sunny spot for a bit of daytime drinking, a night out sipping stellar cocktails, or a cosy place to share a bottle of vino with friends, the Roundhill Pub has got just the thing.
You can experience true Italian dining and hospitality at Tutto, the fourth venue from the acclaimed restaurateur Razak Helalat. The restaurant in Brighton centre offers impeccable attention to detail that runs through the whole offering; from the venue in its elegant grandeur to the exceptional food and drink. There’s a notable lift in the atmosphere at Tutto as the restaurant seems to ripple with social excitement – setting a picture-perfect surrounding for cocktail drinking. You’ll find a classic Italian-led menu of cocktails, along with well-versed staff who will be able to whip up anything on, or off the menu.
Discover a diverse and inclusive drinks list at the Dishoom Permit Room Brighton, catering to all tastes. Their fantastic cocktail selection offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Enjoy classics with a Dishoom Permit Room twist, such as the Orange Wine Margarita or explore the ‘Teetotal’ section, featuring a fabulous sounding Sober Negroni. Whether you’re seeking a pre-dinner or theatre cocktail, a night out on the town, or a celebration, Dishoom Permit Room has you covered.
Housed on the first floor of The Mesmerist, The Flipside is Brighton’s grooviest 70s inspired cocktail lounge taking style nods and inspiration from this iconic era that heralded the legendary Soul Train movement. The funky cocktail menu features drinks that were all the rage in the 70s but brought up to date with a modern (and sometimes surprising) twist! The Flipside is open Thursday to Saturday evenings and can also be hired exclusively for your own events and celebrations from Sunday to Wednesday. Groovy Baby!
Wabi Sabi in Hove tantalises cocktail enthusiasts with its impressive cocktail offering, making it a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers in Brighton and Hove. Wabi Sabi craft a diverse and creative cocktail menu that beautifully complements the flavours of Japanese cuisine. From classic favourites to innovative and unique concoctions, each cocktail is meticulously crafted with premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and artistic flair. Whether you prefer a refreshing sake-infused cocktail or a perfectly balanced Umai Colada, Wabi Sabi’s cocktail selection promises a delightful and memorable drinking experience with a Japanese flair.
Everything about the Victoria Bar at The Grand Hotel screams luxury and decadence. Well known in Brighton for a quality offering on both drinks and service, The Victoria Bar is a fail safe option for anyone looking for a very sippable drinks and luxe vibes. Go for something of the cocktail menu, which offers classic and more experimental drinks to suit everyones tastes. Also on offer are specially selected wines and bubbles, beers and high end spirts. The Grand Brighton is also a great option for a stunning Sussex afternoon tea.
Bars in Hove
In 2023, the Better Half Pub unveiled an exciting new addition to their offerings – a delightful cocktail menu. Alongside their renowned range of ales and excellent wines, patrons can now indulge in a variety of classic and innovative concoctions. Savour their signature favourites like the Mai Tai, Negroni, Margarita, Gin Fizz, or the Bloody Mary. Crafted with precision and premium ingredients, each cocktail promises a memorable and sophisticated drinking experience at this vibrant and welcoming pub. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or looking to try something new, this Hove pub has something to delight your taste buds.
Enjoy a cocktail at Cin Cin, the modern neighbourhood restaurant in Hove. Take a seat at one of their stools around the counter in the main dining room and watch as your cocktail is expertly crafted. It’s the perfect accompaniment to authentic antipasti and small plates. You can sip on a refreshing spritz and while away the evening or try the Cin Cin Negroni, which packs a punch. Their cocktails are all crafted with quality ingredients and spirits.
E39 Restaurant and Bar in Hove is a beautiful and friendly destination for indulging in a cocktail or two. You might choose to sit outside in the sun supping a lovingly mixed negroni or honey margarita watching the world go by, or be barside to watch the fabulous bartenders mix you up their latest special in style. RB thinks that the upstairs space rivals any cocktail bars out there for elegance – so see if you can book a spot by the window and get familiar with their cocktail menu. Look out for their deals on their socials for offers and seasonal specials.
Fourth and Church is perhaps best-known as a restaurant, wine bar and sherry specialist but they apply their particular style to cocktails too. Wine is usually low-yield and organic, food is ingredient-led and uses simple and traditional methods to celebrate the natural flavour of quality ingredients. Cocktail-wise they favour twists on classics which are spirit-led. Throughout the Fourth and Church offering you’ll see the same motif; the finest quality ingredients, treated with expertise and presented without pretence.
We respect anyone confident enough to advertise a “breakfast martini” on their menu, which is exactly what Oeuf cafe in Hove does. Open from 9am – 4 daily, this breakfast and brunch café does a very good line in cocktails and floristry. Parisian Chic set the tone with hints of campy exuberant fun, it’s brunch for celebrating and nothing helps you celebrate like a cocktail. The drinks menu is classic with twists and very much keeping to the fun element – which is exactly what we want out of breakfast cocktails. Winners of best cafe in the 2023 BRAVO awards.
With a simple but quality cocktail menu, The Farm Tavern in Hove is a great option if you’re looking for a pub that does cocktails well. No mixes on tap here folks, we’re talking proper cocktails made by trained bartenders. If you happen to be free on a Thursday and love a well-made margarita, then head here to take advantage of Margarita Thursdays, where you’ll get two of the tangy classics for £12!
Paris Wine Bar on Church Road, Hove, runs a menu of classic and signature cocktails as well as seasonal specials. During the summer expect some fun, thirst-quenching and fruity numbers while in the winter you’ll see the seasonal options become a bit more ‘fortifying’. The main bar has that distinctly Parisian feel, with dark luxurious interiors designed to encourage you to stick around for the long haul. The surprise garden at the back is an added bonus, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the street and sheltered from the wind. It’s a perfect spot to while away some time in Hove with a cocktail or two, or three.
Tapestry, Hove’s neighbourhood bar, boasts an impressive array of cocktails, including classics like the Old Fashioned, Pornstar Martini, Cosmopolitan, and Espresso Martini. Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying an intimate date night, or indulging in a leisurely Sunday roast, Tapestry provides the perfect setting. With its inviting atmosphere and beautiful interiors, Tapestry ensures that you always feel welcome in the neighbourhood while sipping on their exceptional drinks menu.
Market Restaurant has social dining at its heart, so naturally, a touch of social lubricant is more than forthcoming in the form of excellent wines, local beers and of course cocktails. The Anglo-Spanish theme permeates through to the cocktail menu, with the sherry infused Bloody Mary making for an excellent brunch or lunch time treat. Negroni’s are a focus here too, with masterclasses and paired tasting sessions making for a suitably social evening.
