Top Coffee Shops in Brighton

We’re living in a flat white economy, and thanks to the hipster revolution great coffee has become increasingly easier to find. If you’re looking for a caffeine fix check out our top 5 coffee shops in Brighton, one of the most caffeinated cities in the country.

By Charlie Walker | Updated Nov 8 2023

Brighton, where seagulls aren't the only things that are wired! This vibrant town is an absolute caffeine mecca, and we're not just pulling your espresso shots. With more coffee fanatics per capita than anywhere else in the UK, it's no wonder Brighton's streets are positively buzzing with coffee shops. These aren't your average Joe joints, mind you; they're the crema of the crop, proudly serving cups of liquid sunshine brewed from beans sourced from around the world and roasted right here in our sunny city. Whether you're on the run with an oat flat white or seeking a spot to savor a dirty chai latte, Brighton, the UK's coffee capital, has got your back. So, grab your favorite reusable cup, and join us on a journey through Brighton's top coffee haunts...

Multiple Locations

For coffee aficionados and cake connoisseurs alike, Pelicano is the ultimate caffeine and confectionery sanctuary. This small local chain, sprinkled across Brighton like espresso grounds, has become a beloved part of the city's coffee culture. Our top pick? The Sydney Street outpost, in the hip heart of North Laine. With seats spilling onto the pedestrianized road, it's the prime perch for some serious people-watching, all while sipping on some of Brighton's finest brews. The house blend, "Smokey Bird," is a versatile gem, perfect for both espresso lovers and slow-brew enthusiasts. And let's not forget their nibbles; the topless blueberry and lemon cake is pure mouthwatering poetry. 

Stoney Point Coffee

15 Montpelier Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3BF

For those seeking a caffeine haven with a side of serenity, Stoney Point is the ultimate escape from the city's bustling rhythms. Nestled on a charming residential street where Brighton cozies up to Hove, this cozy coffee nook beckons with its laid-back allure. They've got the beans to back up their boast – serving up Monmouth Coffee, where each cup is a symphony of toasted almonds and a precisely brewed masterpiece. Coffee here is more than a drink; it's an art form, and the baristas wield their skills like maestros. As you soak in the atmosphere, take your pick from a delightful spread of homemade cakes, jams, and chutneys – all crafted with the utmost care. 

Tilt

134, 132 Preston Drove, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 6FJ

Far from the touristy throngs, Tilt is like a well-kept secret in the world of caffeine connoisseurs. With its stripped-back, cool aesthetic and local art adorning the walls, it's become a Brighton legend for a reason. But it's not just the brews that shine here; their food game is on point. Whether you pop in for a quick weekday breakfast pit stop or settle in for a leisurely weekend brunch, Tilt's menu is a fresh, vibrant symphony of flavors, all meticulously crafted with seasonal, whole foods. There's no room for processed fakes here! From fresh salads to frittatas and quiches, they've got your taste buds covered. And if you're into supporting local artists and businesses, Tilt is your spot, often hosting pop-up events that add an extra dash of local flair. 

Bond Street Coffee

15 Bond St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1RD

Black Rain Coffee, the masterminds behind Bond St Coffee, take their coffee game seriously, roasting ethically grown beans on a low-emission roaster and delivering them with zero emissions, showcasing their passion for both flavor and the environment. With single-origin brews from the far reaches of the globe, your taste buds are in for a globe-trotting treat. And let's not forget their pièce de résistance – the vegan cinnamon bun, a delectable must-have to accompany your coffee conquest. But it's not just about the beans; it's also the atmosphere that brews here. Signature flavors and eye-catching latte art add a splash of pizzazz to your morning ritual. With expert baristas and top-notch machinery, Bond Street Coffee promises the optimal cup of joe, ready to fuel you past lunchtime.

Black Mocha

103 Gloucester Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AP

For the ultimate caffeine and cocoa fix, make your way to Black Mocha, where your taste buds are in for a tantalizing tango of 70% Madagascan chocolate and a shot of espresso. It's the 'Black Mocha,' a signature concoction that's pure indulgence in a cup, guaranteed to put a pep in your step. Their goodies go beyond the cup; with raw vegan cakes and delectable snacks to please your palate, it's more than just a coffee stop. Whether you're exploring vintage clothing shops or record stores, Black Mocha is the perfect pitstop to refuel with a coffee that's a true gem. And speaking of gems, you can take their dense and complex range of espressos home with you or gift them to your coffee-loving friends.

Red Roaster St. James

1D St James's St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RE

Red Roaster – where coffee meets glamour and glitz, Brighton's oldest roastery and a café that's a whole lot more than a caffeine fix. This place has a red-hot reputation, and it's not just the coffee. It's a botanical haven where great brunch and unique twists on coffee unite, creating a dining experience that's nothing short of dazzling. As they whip up everything from fantastic Americanos to quirky coffee concoctions, Red Roaster has made it to the top 20 sustainable businesses in the UK, and that's no small beans. 

Trading Post Coffee Roasters

Multiple Locations

With a rustic charm that pairs perfectly with a thoroughly modern menu, this small local chain is like the James Bond of coffee shops – suave and satisfying. Whether you're kicking off your day or looking for a brunch that's beyond brilliant, Trading Post Coffee has your back. The food is freshly prepared and sourced as locally as possible, with a strong emphasis on organic ingredients. From a classic full English to hearty brunch options and even tempting vegan delights like the vegan Welsh Rarebit, they've got every palate covered. But let's not forget the coffee, because that's the real star here. Hand-roasted by a second-generation Italian roaster, their coffee is a blend of smoothness and balance with hints of chocolate and hazelnut. The secret ingredient? A pinch of ethical ethos – they source direct and champion certified organic beans, even being Rainforest Alliance members. Plus, if you order their coffee online, the deliveries are carbon neutral via bicycles. With three convenient Brighton locations in the North Laine and the Lanes, Trading Post Coffee Roasters is the ultimate destination for coffee lovers. 

Fika

1 Norton Road, Hove, BN3 3BE

Fika Beach, 300 Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1EN

Fika- where they serve up "filthy fried eggs and damn good coffee," is your go-to oasis for coastal caffeine revival. If you've ever wondered what the Swedish term 'Fika' means, this spot will show you that it's more than just a coffee and cake break; it's a state of mind and a cultural ritual to pause, refresh, and socialize. At Fika, they've taken this concept and given it a trendy Brighton twist, offering mouth-watering breakfast buns and a sea view that's worth every sip. Whether you're strolling along the coast or just in need of a coffee escapade, Fika has you covered. 

Pharmacie

18b Cambridge Grove Brighton, and, Hove BN3 3ED

These coffee wizards have been a long-time favorite of RiSE coffee box, and for good reason! They've got the beans and the baristas that create caffeinated masterpieces. But here's the kicker – it's not just about the coffee; Pharmacie is a true coffee magician's haven, where top-notch brunch meets exceptional roasting. And if you can't get enough, they've even got a coffee subscription service that's like a coffee lover's dream come true. Plus, it's dog-friendly, so your furry pals can join in on the fun.

17 Grams

12d Meeting House Ln, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HB

This sleek and stylish coffee shop is a haven, with its signature pop of pink adding a touch of glam to your caffeine experience. Whether you're fueling up for a day of exploring the Royal Pavilion or grabbing a lunchtime cuppa, 17 Grams has you covered. And the best part? They roast their own coffee just up the road in North Laine, offering delicious blends from Kenya, Rwanda, and Mexico. From hearty and healthy brunch options like the veggie burrito to sweet indulgences like brioche French toast with maple syrup, bacon, and a cornflake coating, they've got a menu that'll leave your taste buds singing. And for those on the go, their takeaway coffee served in signature pink cups is the ultimate caffeine companion.

Cafe Coho

53 Ship St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1AF

83a Queens Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3XE

Cafe Coho - boasting not one, but two fabulous locations! Their vibe is all about casual warmth and friendliness, wrapped in beautiful exposed brickwork and adorned with vintage furniture, making it the perfect spot for a coffee catch-up. In autumn and winter, it's a hygge haven, complete with twinkling fairy lights, seasonal latte art, and soul-soothing hot chocolates. But when summer rolls around, the outdoor seating and freshly squeezed juices take center stage, keeping you refreshed and cool. And let's not forget their specialty – dark-roasted coffee with blends from smallholder farmers in exotic locales like Costa Rica, Sumatra, Guatemala, and Rwanda. Plus, they've got a delectable variety of homemade cakes and artisan sandwiches to satisfy your cravings. But wait, there's more! The Ship Street venue goes the extra mile with cocktails and hosts epic bottomless brunches too!