With summer winding down it doesn’t mean that the fun needs to stop. Cocktails can be enjoyed any time of the year, and if you need a cocktail fix on a night out then Brighton is in no short supply of fantastic bars selling the very best in cocktail flair and refinement. If you are looking for somewhere quiet to relax with a Martini or would prefer a busy bar with plenty of buzz then we have you covered. Here are 10 of the best bars to enjoy a cocktail in Brighton…
The Gin Tub
Situated on Church Road in Hove, The Gin Tub is a classic mix of retro and modern stylistic trappings with an emphasis on, you guessed it, all things Gin. The menu boasts an extensive range of Gin-based options, as well as bespoke cocktails that will excite the tastebuds.
Patrons of The Gin Tub can expect a lively atmosphere and can even order their drinks using a retro telephone. The bar also offers all-inclusive events such as Gin-tasting, an afternoon “G&Tea”, and even a fun cocktail-making course where guests can learn how to make up to four of their favourite cocktails on the bars menu. Be sure to check out The Gin Club if you’re looking for more than just a standard Gin & Tonic on your night out.
Address: 16 Church Rd, Hove, BN3 2FL
Website: thegintub.co.uk
Shuffle Bar
Nights out don’t get much more exciting than those offered at Shuffle Bar, which is situated just a short walk from St. Peter’s Church near the North Laines. Shuffle Bar offers customers a “unique” cocktail experience, allowing patrons to choose what music the bar plays using their phones.
If that wasn’t enough of a unique selling point, then the menu boasts an eclectic range of signature and classic cocktail options that are reasonably priced. Be sure to check out Shuffle Bar‘s extensive “happy hour” timetable, which includes 2-4-1 drinks all night from Monday to Thursday.
Address: 27 York Pl, Brighton, BN1 4GU
Website: theshufflebar.co.uk
Bohemia
If you’re looking for a traditional cocktail bar with that classic speakeasy feel, then look no further than Bohemia, which is situated on the conveniently named ‘Meeting House Lane’ in the heart of the South Laines.
Bohemia is one of the most visually arresting cocktail bars in Brighton, complete with a roof terrace, and its menu contains a mix of classic signature cocktails and bespoke concoctions. If you’re feeling peckish then Bohemia’s kitchen is also not to be missed, with full Buffet options available.
Address: 54-55 Meeting House Ln, Brighton, BN1 1HB
Website: bohemiabrighton.co.uk
Twisted Lemon
Situated only a short walk from Churchill Square, Twisted Lemon is a popular cocktail bar in Brighton for in-the-know locals. It can be found at the end of a small alleyway beside Brighton’s famous ‘singing barber’ salon and is remarkably quaint, cosy, and lively to boot.
The menu has all the classic cocktail staples on it and the staff are friendly and serve up each order with plenty of energy, smiles and small talk. Be sure to get there early though, as the bar can fill up quickly due to its size.
Address: 41 Middle St, Brighton, BN1 1AL
Website: facebook.com/twistedlemonbrighton/
Mrs Fitzherberts
If you’re in central Brighton then visiting Mrs Fitzherberts is a must. Named after one of Brighton’s most famous historical figures, Maria Fitzherbert, who was the apple of the Prince Regent’s eye, this bar is a hub of activity on a busy weekend night out.
Mrs Fitzherberts has a small but reasonably priced menu full of cocktail classics, with an unlimited 2-4-1 offer on drinks. Its decadent design extends to a roof terrace where customers can find the aptly named ‘Lost Gardens of Fitzherbert’ cocktail bar. But if watching the world go by is more your style then the bar has extensive outdoor seating at its front, slap-bang in the middle of Brighton’s most popular pedestrian thoroughfare.
Address: 25-26 New Rd, Brighton, BN1 1UG
Website: mrsfitzherberts.co.uk
No. 32
Located in a converted theatre, and situated just a stone’s throw from Churchill Square, No.32 is an elegant cocktail bar for those in need of an escape from the busy street bars of the city centre. No.32 has an enormous menu of drinks on offer with their “Uniquely 32” range showcasing the very best in bespoke cocktail artisanship.
The menu is reasonably priced and the bar also offers a range of Lunch and Dinner options if you’re in need of something to steady the appetite in between drinks. The bar also offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, depending on your preference.
Address: 32 Duke St, Brighton, BN1 1AG
Website: no32dukestreet.com
The Plotting Parlour
Situated in the beating heart of Brighton’s Kemptown village, The Plotting Parlour is one of Brighton’s most famous cocktail destinations. The menu offers a wide and varied selection of signature and classic cocktail options, with locally sourced ingredients for that authentic Brighton taste.
The presentation of its beverages is always immaculate and every drink is a sight to behold, but be sure to make a reservation and book a table in advance, as the bar can get very busy due to its popularity, especially on weekends.
Address: 6 Steine St, Brighton, BN2 1TE
Website: theplottingparlour-brighton.co.uk
Bar Valentino
Brighton is a cultural delight and those who enjoy a trip to the theatre may wish to try the menu at Bar Valentino, which is located next to the city’s famous Theatre Royal. Bar Valentino is not just for theatre-goers though, as it markets itself as one of Brighton’s premier ‘Pre-Club’ bars.
The menu at Bar Valentino is broad and exciting and customers can enjoy a drink on the balcony overlooking Brighton’s busiest thoroughfare. If this review is not enough to persuade you, then perhaps an award might – Bar Valentino was voted Brighton’s “best bar” in 2021.
Address: 7A New Road, Brighton, BN1 1UF
Website: barvalentino.co.uk
The Mesmerist
In the heart of the South Laines sits one of Brighton’s most beloved drinking destinations – The Mesmerist. If you’re looking for a 70s-themed night complete with a fantastic selection of drinks then this bar should be your first port of call on a busy weekend.
The Mesmerist’s cocktail bar ‘The Flipside’ boasts a wide array of signature cocktails and 70s-themed classics, while the upstairs rooftop bar is a hive of activity and music. The Mesmerist continues to be one of the number one destinations for a fun-filled cocktail experience in Brighton.
Address: 1-3 Albert St, Brighton, BN1 1HE
Website: mesmerist.pub
The Black Dove
If you are visiting Brighton for the weekend or are new to the city, checking out The Black Dove on St. James’s Street has to be at the top of your to-do list. The bar’s interior, situated over two floors, is a sensual delight, while the cocktail menu is just as appealing.
The bar is full to the rafters most days of the week, offering live music performances and DJ nights to soundtrack the throng of revellers who move through its doors. For the complete cocktail experience, check out Kemptown’s The Black Dove.
Address: 74 St James’s St, Brighton, BN2 1PA
Website: blackdovebrighton.com
