Brighton, on the south coast of the UK, is well known for its outstanding, diverse and quirky nightlife scene. From burlesque dancing shows and retro-chic pubs to live music venues and lively karaoke bars, Brighton’s best bars will definitely not disappoint. Here’s a list of our favorite.
BYOC, Bring Your Own Cocktail, is a relatively new addition to Brighton’s nightlife with a very modern approach: drinks cannot be bought on the premises and there is no drinks list at the bar. However, guests are invited to bring their own beverages, such as your favourite spirit, and have the bartenders mix a drink of their choice. All drinks are prepared in front of the customers by the experienced bar staff against a flat fee for a set amount of mixed drinks. BYOC is the first bar of its kind in Brighton and is a great idea for everyone who enjoys the art of cocktail making and is looking for a different kind of bar experience.
Merkaba, as part of Myhotel in Brighton, is an elegant space with a beautifully crafted bar, curved walls and low lighting, which achieves a relaxed atmosphere. The bar has a great drinks menu, ranging from cocktail classics, such as the manhattan and martini, to a wide range of high quality spirits. The bar also has a separated seating at the back, which is perfect for special occasions. Merkaba is the perfect space for those who enjoy dressing up and are looking for a glamorous night out.
Ten Green Bottles is an independent wine merchant and shop that offers an outstanding selection of high-quality wines directly sourced from small vineyards. Ten Green Bottles is dedicated to finding little known wines with flair, regional expression as well as excellent quality. All the bottles sold at Ten Green Bottles are hand picked and serve the idea of promoting small vineyards over mainstream popular wine brands in the UK. Guests can either choose to take away a bottle of their chosen wine or drink the bottle in the venue for just a £5 corkage. Ten Green Bottles also regularly feature low key wine tasting events in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Plotting Parlour is an intimate bar on Kemptown’s Stein Street that is widely known for its excellent cocktails, but also its great selection of both international and local beers as well as high quality wines. The Plotting Parlour attracts both tourists and locals with its comfortably decorated interior, including leather armchairs, and the great 1920s-style swing music that creates a laid-back atmosphere in the bar. Although the wine and beer selection at the Plotting Parlour is extensive, the inventive cocktails creations are definitely the highlight of the bar. Cocktails, such as the gin jam fizz or the ginger and chili martini guarantee a unique drinking experience.
Molly Malones is an authentic Irish pub right in the heart of Brighton. Besides its freshly prepared menu that includes traditional Irish dishes, Molly Malones is famous for its great variety of both Irish ales and local stouts, such as the Brighton stout. The Irish pub is also a great space to watch all major sports events in a hearty pub atmosphere surrounded by a great choice of drinks. Molly Malones features some fantastic live music events with local artists several nights a week and the lower ground floor, Molly’s Private Bar, is also available to hire for private parties.
The Black Dove is definitely one of Brighton’s quirkiest bars and pubs. The Black Dove’s interior, which is designed in deep mahogany colours and with heavy curtains, is full of unique vintage furniture, books and other retro collectibles. As special as its interior is the drinks list, which not only consists of inventive cocktails that are a real treat for every cocktail connoisseur, but also international craft beers, locally brewed ales and other unique beers, such as the Brooklyn lager that is available on tap in the Black Dove.
Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar is a brilliant venue that features a wide range of both international and national live bands in their space. The interior spreads an authentic vibe with walls plastered in various posters and local artwork as well as vintage mismatched furniture. Sticky Mike’s has a varied drinks menu, including organic bottled beers and local draft ales, and they also offer homemade pizzas at a great value. On top of its special evenings with local artists, Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar regularly lends its upper floor to local artists who showcase their artwork in the hip space.
Altos Loft Bar, located on Brighton’s Ship Street, is a hideout in the heart of Brighton. Both locals and tourists are attracted by the tranquility and tastefulness of the bar that invites guests to spend a relaxed evening amongst friends in a peaceful atmosphere. The Altos Loft Bar does especially great cocktails, ranging from the old classics, such as the tequila sunrise and piña colada to personal adaptations. Altos Loft Bar is the perfect place to go to for a laid back evening in an intimate atmosphere.
The Mesmerist is one of Brighton’s most popular bars and has hundreds of visitors per week. The Mesmerist’s interior is inspired by 1930s burlesque venues, a theme that is also picked up in the retro music that is played inside the venue. From 30s, 40s and 50s classics to jazz, swing and rock ‘n’ roll, the music at the Mesmerist definitely stands out. The entertainment is as varied as the venue itself, with circus performances, swing musicians, burlesque dancers and party DJs being featured on a regular basis.
Lucky Voice Brighton is known as the best karaoke bar in town that impresses with high quality karaoke kits and a fantastic collection of modern karaoke rooms. The attentive staff members will take the time to explain the workings of the bar to you at the start and then serve you outstanding cocktails and a wide range of other drinks directly to your private booth so you don’t miss out on valuable singing time.
