Just shy of the station and brimming with artsy attitude, this part of the town is loved as much as the pier itself. From low-key boozers with cosy interiors to quirky haunts touting lip-smacking bevvies, there's a treasure trove of watering holes to be found. So, where to start? Read our guide to the best North Laine bars in Brighton.
Last edited by Marcus Sanigar
Last updated on 23rd January 2026
The Dorset on North Road is something of a staple for punters around the town. Having originally opened nearly 200 years ago, this watering hole is whipping up tasty brews and seafood dishes, all while providing sun-seekers with streetside tables. So, who's getting the first round?
You can always rely on YO! for wallet-friendly Japanese food in North Laine. Located on Jubilee Street, this hotspot is the perfect place for a laid-back meal with pals or date nights alike. As for the food? Expect salmon nigiri, cucumber maki and flavour-packed bowls of ramen.
The North Laine Brewhouse menu is not only filled with burgers, but banging Sunday roasts. Wash all the good stuff down with a lip-smacking pint, that's brewed on-site. Fancy learning about the beer-making processes? Head on one of its guided tours.
With something for everyone across a Mediterranean-inspired small plates menu, including cacio e pepe tenders, shawarma and harissa-grilled prawns, alongside pub classics like fish and chips, White Rabbit is sure to be a hit with those looking to eat in North Laine. Charming and kitsch in equal measure, this place is dog-friendly and has a little beer garden with a fun rabbit mural.
If you're in need of North Laine in Brighton bars, Foundation Head is a great little venue fronting rustic interiors and delicious food. From burgers to halo fries and crispy jalapenos, the watering hole also offers an equally enticing drinks menu to match. To top it off? There's also a pub quiz.
Nestled in the heart of North Laine, the Basketmakers Arms is a cosy gem where Brighton's bohemian streets meet proper pub vibes. It's a favourite for locals and visitors alike, offering freshly brewed cask ales, ice-cold beers, a neat wine list and an impressive selection of single malts and spirits.
The menu mixes traditional favourites like battered fish and chips and chef's pie of the day with smaller modern plates such as crispy buttermilk squid, tempura enoki mushrooms and Branston pickle croquettes, making it the perfect pit stop for lunch, dinner or just a long evening with friends.
After a North Laine bar with a difference? The Wine Cellar Brighton is bound to hit the spot. Not only does this gorgeous venue provide a sultry backdrop that's ideal for date night or elevated drinks, but there's also a plethora of private tasting experiences. Sign us up.
Fronting fragrant fish curries, tea-steeped chickpeas and ginger chicken, Mowgli is one of the best restaurants on Dukes Lane. Along with top-notch Indian cooking at the forefront, the venue knocks up delicious cocktails. We recommend the lychee blossom martini.
After wild live DJ sets 'til the AM or mouthwatering grub? Then Mash Tun is a firm choice. This chilled boozer in the heart of the North Laine is renowned for its indie patrons, laidback schmoozing and crackin' selection of plates, making it well worth a visit.
Serving up hearty vegan fare, from a BBQ jackfruit pie to a hazelnut, pistachio and cranberry nut roast, Earth & Stars is a great bar for foodies. Come rain or shine, be sure to grab the gang for a pint in the cosy indoor space or head out to the stunning beer garden for summertime sips.
Just a stone's throw from London Road station, Signalman is a fabulous North Laine pub. Decked out with library-side tables, exposed brickwork and a roaring fireplace, this is an ideal watering hole for those cosy drinks with pals. If the sun is shining? Head to the beer garden.
One of our top picks for pubs in Brighton, The Black Horse is a much-loved North Laine boozer touting a great deal of grub. Whether you're heading in for a Sunday lunch or for the awesome drinks deals, it won't fail to hit the spot. Sports fan? Watch the big fixtures on the HD screens.
In the heart of Brighton's Theatreland and North Laine, Tinto Taperia blends vibrant Spanish flavours with a lively, stylish setting. From patatas bravas and gambas pil pil to paella made fresh to order, every dish is built for sharing, while the drinks list champions Spanish wines, sangria, and regional gins.
Inside or on the terrace, the warm, buzzing atmosphere makes it a standout spot for casual nights, pre-theatre dinners, or weekend drinks.
A must-visit for whisky lovers, Cut Your Wolf Loose is one of Brighton's coolest independent venues - and that's saying something. On Trafalgar Street, this bona fide cult favourite serves over 300 whiskies from around the world, including rare single cask releases, plus cocktails and local craft beers.
With laidback vibes, it's warm and welcoming whether you know your drams or just drink the occasion tipple. With regular tastings, blending sessions and cocktail masterclasses, it give you plenty of ways to up your game.
If La Choza doesn't mimic the vibrancy of the North Laine, we don't know where does. This hotspot has taken its Day of the Dead theme and decked out the venue in bold colours, skulls and wacky floral embellishments. As for food? You won't get better Mexican fare than here.
Alternative drinkers should make a bee line for Hobgoblin, especially if they're hoping to get their mitts on some of the finest bevvies or grub. From tables made out of retro games consoles and walls decked out in retro posters, to a top-notch beer garden, this spot is bound to impress.
After a morning of hitting the North Laine Brighton shops, be sure to check out Kooks on Gardner Street. This brunch hotspot offers a range of mouthwatering plates, including eggs Benedict and a vegan fry-up with spicy tofu, alongside a selection of bespoke cocktails.
