There’s been a lot going on over the past 18 months and what I intended to be a light-hearted blog turned into a chore. But no longer. I’ve moved from London to Brighton and we’re slowly coming out of the other side of a global pandemic.

My partner and I were on our way back from a tattoo shop earlier today when the immortal words were uttered, ‘do you fancy a pint?’. We were right by the Brighton Bierhaus, a pub I’ve walked past multiple times on my way to or from the station so it seemed a visit was long overdue.

We were the only people in there (bar one solitary bloke) and the draught line up was strong with a delicious looking cinnamon cider and plenty of local beers from Brighton Bier but my eyes were immediately drawn to Manchester Bitter by Marble Brewery and the decision was made for me.

Taking a seat we supped on our pints (Will had an Ur-Dunkel, a dark lager from Paulaner) and sat in companionable silence as a playlist featuring The Kills, LCD Soundsystem and Pulp played.

I thought it was about time to taste the local brew and ordered a Brighton Bier Pilsner. I really enjoy a lager or a pilsner but I think moving from bitter to pilsner was my downfall, it’s a cold, damp day in January, not a sunny afternoon in April. Word of advice, pick your beer based on the weather.

There is the option to order food from local independents or you can get your fave grub Deliverooed to your table which is always a plus if you’re having a sesh. Do I wish I could have ordered a hot dog? Yes.

To sum up, here’s what I think of Brighton Bierhaus:

Draught selection – outstanding, plenty to choose from and a couple of cider options which is always welcome.

Staff – friendly without being in your face but ultimately it was the playlist which won me over.

General vibe – located on a reasonably busy main road without huge amounts of foot traffic it was pretty quiet and I’d be interested to know what a Tuesday night crowd is compared to a Saturday night. For a quiet pint on a weekday afternoon I couldn’t ask for more. Plus I noticed they had board games under the tables which is always a bonus.

Toilets – clean and lighting which didn’t age me 10 years, big thumbs up.

Outside space – a few tables out the front but I can imagine it would get reasonably busy on a Friday or Saturday so if you want to secure your smoking spot I’d get there sharpish.

Brighton Bierhaus is located at 161 Edward Street in Brighton, it’s close to the Pavilion and just behind St James Street. We visited on Wednesday 19 January at 4pm on a reasonably chilly and damp afternoon.