16 Best Coffee Shops in Brighton: Local Café Top Picks

Brighton has become a top UK destination for quality coffee. The seaside town offers hundreds of cafés serving everything from specialty single-origin brews to creative coffee drinks and fresh pastries.

Both locals and visitors have plenty of options for their daily caffeine fix.

This guide covers 16 of the best coffee shops in Brighton, from cosy neighbourhood cafés to trendy specialty coffee roasters. Each spot offers something unique, whether it’s hand-roasted beans, vegan options, or a welcoming atmosphere for remote workers.

The article also highlights what makes Brighton’s coffee culture special and provides tips for exploring the city’s café scene.

1) Komodo • Specialty Coffee Brewers

Komodo sits in Brighton Square and has earned a reputation as one of the city’s most respected specialty coffee shops. The modern, light-filled space feels relaxed and works well for both quick visits and longer stays.

Komodo roasts its own beans and takes coffee seriously. They offer a rotating selection of single-origin coffees and classic espresso-based drinks.

The baristas know their craft and can guide you through the beans and brewing methods. Flat whites and filter coffees are especially well-made.

The food menu includes breakfast, lunch, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals. Everything is freshly prepared and pairs well with the coffee.

The shop can get busy on weekends, but the staff handle crowds efficiently. Komodo sources responsibly and focuses on sustainability, enhancing the overall experience.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (403 reviews)
📍Location: 19a Brighton Square, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HD, United Kingdom
📞Website: Komodo Website

2) Ikigai Coffee

Ikigai Coffee sits on Queens Road and brings something special to Brighton’s coffee scene. The shop focuses on quality beans and careful brewing methods.

Visitors find a calm space perfect for relaxing with a proper cup of coffee. The baristas prepare each drink with care and use carefully sourced beans roasted for the best flavour.

The welcoming atmosphere works for laptop workers, friends meeting up, or those seeking a quiet moment. The space suits both longer stays and quick takeaways.

Ikigai has built a strong reputation with locals and visitors. Many people return regularly after their first visit.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (392 reviews)
📍Location: 37 Queens Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3XB, United Kingdom

3) 17GRAMS Brighton | Coffee & Brunch

17GRAMS Brighton sits on Meeting House Lane in a plant-filled, modern space. The café roasts its own specialty coffee on the South Coast, and their espresso drinks highlight this focus on quality.

The menu is entirely vegan and vegetarian, making it a favourite for plant-based diners. Brunch dishes go beyond standard café fare and draw a steady crowd.

The courtyard seating offers an outdoor option when the weather is good. Inside, plants create a relaxed atmosphere for quick coffee stops or longer brunch visits.

The café has built a strong local following in Brighton’s coffee scene. Staff move efficiently and know their coffee, helping customers choose from the menu.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (820 reviews)
📍Location: 12d Meeting House Ln, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 110210
🌐Website: 17GRAMS Brighton Website

4) Olea Specialty Coffee & Matcha

Olea Specialty Coffee & Matcha sits on North Road, offering more than just coffee. The menu features speciality coffee and matcha drinks, giving visitors options for both espresso and Japanese tea.

The team pays careful attention to brewing and bean selection. Olea transforms throughout the day, serving as a coffee shop in the morning and afternoon, then becoming a cocktail and wine bar in the evening.

This dual identity makes it a flexible spot for different needs. The compact, cosy space feels welcoming but not overly trendy.

Staff know the menu well and guide customers through the options. Olea has earned a strong reputation with nearly 170 reviews and a high rating.

The combination of quality drinks, knowledgeable service, and the evening bar gives it an edge over single-purpose coffee shops.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (166 reviews)
📍Location: 82 North Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1YD, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Olea Website

5) Coffee At 33 Brighton.

Coffee At 33 Brighton sits on Trafalgar Street and offers a straightforward approach to quality coffee. The shop keeps it simple, focusing on well-made drinks without fancy extras.

Customers praise the attention to detail in every cup. The welcoming space attracts regulars and newcomers alike, making everyone feel comfortable.

The staff take coffee seriously and show their expertise in each drink. You can expect consistency, whether you order an espresso or a cappuccino.

Coffee At 33 doesn’t serve full meals, but the drinks are the main attraction. The location is easy to find and tucked into a street known for independent cafés.

It’s close enough to the city centre for convenience but far enough to avoid tourist crowds. This spot is ideal for those who value quality coffee above all else.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (305 reviews)
📍Location: 33 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4ED, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7958 000485

6) The Botanist Coffee Co.

The Botanist Coffee Co. sits on Gloucester Road in a cosy, plant-filled space. Locals and visitors enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for settling in with a book or catching up with friends.

The interior features plants and natural touches, giving the shop its botanical charm. Baristas consistently prepare excellent coffee, offering a range of espresso-based and filter drinks.

The menu includes pastries and light bites that pair well with the drinks. This spot works for quick morning coffees or longer laptop sessions.

The staff are friendly and keep service moving smoothly, even during busy times. The shop can fill up quickly, but turnover is steady, so finding a seat is usually possible.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (186 reviews)
📍Location: 50A Gloucester Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AQ, United Kingdom
🌐Website: The Botanist Coffee Co. Website

7) My Coffee Story

My Coffee Story sits on St James’s Street in Kemptown and offers a welcoming spot for coffee lovers. Locals and visitors appreciate the quality coffee in a relaxed setting.

It’s the kind of place for a morning flat white or an afternoon with friends. Baristas prepare drinks with skill, and the menu includes standard options along with specialty choices.

The comfortable atmosphere suits both quick takeaways and sitting down with a book. Friendly service and a neighbourhood feel make this shop stand out.

Staff are attentive and take pride in their work. The cosy space feels inviting without being cramped, offering a pleasant alternative to busier coffee shops.

The Kemptown location is convenient for those exploring this part of Brighton. It’s a great choice for locals seeking a regular spot or visitors wanting a genuine neighbourhood café.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (508 reviews)
📍Location: 36 St James’s St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RG
📞Contact: +44 7596 810946

8) Brighton Fishing Museum Coffee Shop

This coffee shop sits inside Brighton’s working fishing museum on Kings Road. Visitors enjoy drinks in a unique setting surrounded by maritime history.

The café operates within the museum space, so guests can learn about the city’s fishing heritage while sipping coffee. You can even watch museum displays and fishing boats through the windows as you enjoy a cappuccino.

The menu offers quality coffee drinks and a selection of light refreshments. Friendly staff often share interesting facts about the museum and Brighton’s fishing past.

The intimate space has limited seating, which adds to the cosy atmosphere. Its connection to Brighton’s working waterfront makes it special.

The museum remains an active part of the local fishing community, and the coffee shop reflects that authentic character. Prices stay reasonable, and the seafront location makes it convenient for a beach walk.

The café attracts museum visitors, locals, and tourists looking for something different from chain coffee shops. Opening hours may vary with the museum schedule.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (58 reviews)
📍Location: 195, 196 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 1NB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7926 647408

9) Blend & Brew Brighton

This family-run coffee shop has served the Brighton community since 2014. The space feels warm and welcoming from the moment you step inside.

Regulars know each other by name, and new customers quickly feel at home. The coffee stands out for its quality, and the food menu uses fresh ingredients.

The atmosphere creates a genuine community hub. People gather to catch up, work, or simply relax with a good cup of coffee.

The venue is available for private events and parties. The cosy space works well for birthdays or community gatherings seeking something different from usual venues.

Located on Trafalgar Street, this coffee shop embodies Brighton’s friendly, independent spirit. Staff show passion in every aspect of the experience.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (251 reviews)
📍Location: 44 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4ED
📞Contact: +44 7503 125582
🌐Website: Blend & Brew Brighton Website

10) The Milk Shed Coffee Roasters

The Milk Shed Coffee Roasters operates from a historic building in Kemptown that once served as a dairy for King George IV in the 1800s. The roastery café opens from 7:30am to 3pm, Monday through Friday.

Visitors can watch the team roast, pack, and prepare beans for delivery across the UK. The café focuses on speciality coffee, carefully selecting beans for flavour and quality.

They roast their own coffee on-site and feature guest roasts from different regions. Shed Brew Coffee Pods, made from Brazilian and Nicaraguan beans, offer notes of roasted almond, chocolate, and brown sugar.

The Milk Shed donates 1% of all sales to environmental causes through their 1% for the Planet pledge. They also use carbon neutral packaging for their products.

The business supplies both retail and wholesale customers. They stock brewing equipment and offer subscription options for regular deliveries.

The roastery café provides a space to try their current offerings and connect with the local Brighton community.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (68 reviews)
📍Location: 9 Prince’s St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RD
📞Contact: +44 1273 608400
🌐Website: The Milk Shed Coffee Roasters Website

11) DANDY.

DANDY. functions as both a coffee shop and wine bar on Sydney Street in Brighton. The space serves quality coffee in the morning and transitions to wine service later in the day.

The coffee programme features well-prepared espresso drinks and filter options. Baristas know their craft and can discuss brewing methods if you ask.

The interior feels relaxed without being overly styled. The venue’s dual nature makes it practical for various occasions.

You can stop by for a morning flat white or return in the evening for a glass of wine. The menu stays straightforward and avoids trying to do too much.

DANDY. has built a solid reputation among locals since opening. The venue attracts both regulars and new visitors throughout the week.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (163 reviews)
📍Location: 39A Sydney St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EP, United Kingdom

12) Black Mocha

Black Mocha sits in the heart of North Laine, serving speciality coffee and seasonal brunch dishes since 2014. The café has a warm, rustic atmosphere that makes it a comfortable spot for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee break.

The shop takes its name from its signature blend of 70% Madagascan chocolate and espresso. Along with coffee drinks, they offer a seasonal brunch menu, freshly baked cakes, and savoury snacks.

The menu includes plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, making it accessible for different dietary needs. Black Mocha focuses on sustainability and waste reduction.

They ensure their waste is either compostable or recyclable. The café also sells chocolates and baked goods to take away.

The space feels cosy without being cramped. Staff know their coffee well and locals pop in regularly, showing its consistency and quality.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (564 reviews)
📍Location: BLACK MOCHA, 103 Gloucester Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AP, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Black Mocha Website

13) SPRO COFFEE CO

SPRO COFFEE CO sits in Norfolk Square, a quiet spot just a short walk from Brighton’s seafront. The café has a minimalist design with clean lines and natural light that creates a calm atmosphere for enjoying coffee.

The focus here is on quality coffee made with precision. Baristas take their craft seriously, and it shows in each cup they prepare.

They work with carefully selected beans and pay close attention to extraction and brewing techniques. The menu keeps things simple, letting the coffee speak for itself.

Visitors can choose from espresso-based drinks, filter options, and seasonal specials that highlight different roasts. The space isn’t large, but it suits the café’s approach of doing a few things exceptionally well.

SPRO COFFEE CO appeals to those who appreciate specialty coffee without pretension. Regulars come for their daily brew, while newcomers discover what well-made coffee should taste like.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (131 reviews)
📍Location: 47 Norfolk Square, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2PA, United Kingdom

14) Workshop Coffee Lab

Workshop Coffee Lab sits on Prince Albert Street in Brighton’s North Laine area. The café operates as a specialty coffee roaster and training space, giving it a more technical approach than typical coffee shops.

Baristas clearly know their craft and take time to explain different brewing methods to curious customers. The space itself feels minimal and functional, with large windows letting in plenty of natural light.

The setup focuses on the coffee bar, so visitors can watch their drinks being prepared. The menu features various brewing methods, including espresso, filter, and batch brew options.

Workshop Coffee Lab roasts its own beans on-site, ensuring particularly fresh coffee. Customers can buy bags to take home.

The café offers training courses for those interested in learning more about coffee preparation, which explains the “lab” aspect of the name. The food selection stays simple with pastries and light snacks.

Most people visit primarily for the coffee rather than a full meal. The café attracts coffee enthusiasts and locals looking for quality drinks in the North Laine area.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (204 reviews)
📍Location: 15c Prince Albert St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HF, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Workshop Coffee Lab Website

15) Starfish & Coffee

Starfish & Coffee sits on Egremont Place in the Queens Park neighbourhood of Brighton. This independent café has earned multiple awards for its speciality coffee and brunch.

The shop focuses on ethical sourcing and quality beans. Their coffee menu highlights their passion for speciality roasts.

They take ethics seriously and believe great coffee starts with responsible sourcing. Skilled baristas prepare each drink with care.

The brunch menu is award-winning and helped create the café’s #brunchlikeaboss hashtag. Visitors find a solid selection of breakfast and lunch options.

The café offers a rewards club for regular customers. Members earn points for free coffee, brunch items, and merchandise.

They also run two-for-one offers to help with the cost of living. The atmosphere feels welcoming and encourages locals to gather for coffee or brunch.

The space avoids being overly trendy and keeps a neighbourhood vibe. Locals often choose it for their morning coffee or weekend brunch.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,325 reviews)
📍Location: 32 Egremont Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 0GA, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 230635
🌐Website: Starfish & Coffee Website

16) Bond Street Coffee

Bond Street Coffee operates as both a café and a micro-roastery in Brighton’s North Laines. Warm interiors and lounge seating make it suitable for quick stops or longer stays.

The relaxed atmosphere feels comfortable rather than trendy. Their coffee menu features premium seasonal single origin beans that they roast in-house.

Options include Black Dog, a decaf Colombia, Finca Etiopia from El Salvador, and Las Lajas from Costa Rica. Bean prices range from £13.50 to £29.90, depending on origin and roast.

The café serves classic coffee drinks alongside speciality offerings. Baked goods are available to pair with drinks.

They work directly with seasonal beans and maintain relationships with specific farms. Their roastery supplies other venues as well as their own café customers.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (532 reviews)
📍Location: 15 Bond St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1RD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 731300
🌐Website: Bond Street Coffee Website

What Makes Brighton’s Coffee Scene Unique

Brighton stands out as the UK’s coffee capital with about 318-363 registered cafés. That’s roughly one coffee shop for every 800-880 residents.

The city’s independent coffee culture thrives on locally roasted beans and environmental responsibility.

Local Roasters and Artisan Coffee

Independent roasters in Brighton craft small-batch, single-origin beans right in the city. These roasters supply many local cafés, so customers enjoy fresh coffee within days of roasting.

Small Batch Coffee Roasters, for example, roasts beans on-site and serves them at peak freshness. Many coffee shops hand-roast their own beans to control quality and flavour.

Brighton’s many independent cafés each develop their own character and drinks. Black Mocha in North Laine hand-roasts single-origin beans and serves a 70% dark chocolate black mocha.

This level of specialisation shows how shops compete on quality and uniqueness. Convenience takes a back seat to craft in Brighton’s coffee scene.

Sustainability Initiatives

Cafés in Brighton prioritise environmental practices that match the city’s eco-friendly values. Many source beans through direct trade with farmers, ensuring fair wages and reducing the carbon footprint.

Local roasting cuts down on packaging waste and transport emissions. Beans travel shorter distances, so they need less packaging and create fewer emissions than mass-market coffee.

Independent shops often use compostable cups and encourage reusable containers. Many partner with local bakeries to minimise food miles.

These efforts align with Brighton’s reputation for environmental awareness. Businesses actively work to reduce their impact.

Tips for Enjoying Coffee Shops in Brighton

Brighton’s coffee scene thrives during certain hours. Knowing local customs helps visitors get the best café experience.

Timing visits well and following British café etiquette ensures a pleasant time. Here are some tips on when to go and how to act.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings between 10:00 and 11:30 are the quietest at most Brighton coffee shops. The breakfast rush ends by 9:30, leaving cafés peaceful before lunch.

Weekend mornings get busy from 9:00 to 13:00, especially near the seafront. Expect queues at popular spots like The Flour Pot on Saturdays and Sundays.

Afternoons from 14:30 to 16:00 offer another calm window. Many cafés finish lunch service before the late afternoon tea crowd arrives.

Beach-front locations get crowded on sunny days no matter the time. For a relaxed visit, choose these spots during overcast weather or in winter.

Coffee Shop Etiquette in the UK

Most Brighton coffee shops use counter service. Customers queue in a single line and have their order ready at the front.

Some places offer table service, and staff will let customers know. If unsure, wait near the entrance for staff instructions.

Laptop users should be considerate during busy times. Many cafés welcome remote workers, but taking up tables for long periods during peak hours is frowned upon.

Tipping is not required but leaving small change in the tip jar is appreciated. Most people round up the bill or add 50p to £1 for great service.

Conclusion

Brighton’s coffee culture reflects the city’s creative spirit and focus on quality. With over 300 independent cafés, coffee lovers can explore everything from classic espresso to seasonal blends.

Whether you want a quiet spot for work or a lively community hub, Brighton’s coffee scene offers something for everyone.

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Our properties give you the perfect base to explore Brighton’s café culture and everything else the city has to offer. Whether you need short-term accommodation or a longer stay, we can help you find the right property.

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Brighton’s reputation as a top coffee destination means you’ll always have great brews nearby. The city’s café culture keeps growing, with new shops opening and favourites keeping loyal customers.

Each coffee shop adds something special to Brighton’s neighbourhoods. Every visit offers a unique experience worth savouring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brighton’s coffee scene features over 300 cafés. Standouts like Komodo and Ikigai Coffee lead the way for quality and atmosphere.

Visitors often ask about organic options, seaside locations, and Instagram-worthy interiors across the city’s diverse coffee shops.

What are the top-rated coffee shops in Brighton for a unique experience?

Komodo • Specialty Coffee Brewers focuses on precision brewing and carefully sourced beans. Coffee enthusiasts appreciate the technical skill and attention to detail.

Ikigai Coffee offers a Japanese-inspired approach to coffee culture. The minimalist design and dedication to craft set it apart from traditional British cafés.

Olea Specialty Coffee & Matcha combines coffee and matcha preparations. This mix of specialities makes it a unique spot in Brighton’s café scene.

Can you recommend coffee shops in Brighton that serve organic or fair-trade coffee?

Most specialty coffee shops in Brighton value ethical sourcing. Komodo • Specialty Coffee Brewers works with suppliers who have direct relationships with farmers.

17GRAMS Brighton | Coffee & Brunch focuses on sustainably sourced beans alongside their food menu. Many independent cafés display information about their coffee origins and farming practices.

Visitors should ask baristas about certifications and sourcing details. Brighton’s competitive market means many shops go beyond basic fair-trade standards.

Which Brighton coffee shops offer the best seaside views?

Coffee At 33 Brighton sits close to the seafront. Visitors can enjoy coffee and strolls along the coast.

Many cafés are within a short walk of Brighton’s beach and pier. The city’s compact layout means most coffee shops are five to ten minutes from the sea.

Some places offer outdoor seating in warmer months. This lets customers enjoy drinks while staying close to Brighton’s coastal atmosphere.

Where can I find the cosiest coffee spots in Brighton for a relaxed afternoon?

Ikigai Coffee creates an intimate setting with its small space and thoughtful design. The calm environment suits those seeking a quiet retreat.

Coffee At 33 Brighton has a neighbourhood feel that encourages lingering. The relaxed pace makes it ideal for reading or working on a laptop.

Many North Laine cafés offer comfortable seating and warm interiors. Softer lighting and cushioned furniture make these spaces great for long visits.

Are there any award-winning coffee houses in Brighton renowned for their barista skills?

Komodo • Specialty Coffee Brewers is known for technical expertise. Staff regularly train in advanced brewing and take part in coffee competitions.

17GRAMS Brighton | Coffee & Brunch employs skilled baristas who specialise in espresso and filter drinks. Their commitment to quality has earned local recognition.

Brighton’s coffee capital status means barista competition stays high. Many shops host training sessions and workshops to keep standards up.

What are the most Instagrammable coffee shops in Brighton with exceptional interiors?

Olea Specialty Coffee & Matcha features clean lines and natural materials. The modern, minimalist design photographs well and appeals to many visitors.

Ikigai Coffee’s Japanese-influenced interior creates a distinctive visual style. The space design shows careful attention to detail, making it popular for social media.

17GRAMS Brighton | Coffee & Brunch combines industrial elements with warm touches. The brunch presentation and stylish interior attract customers who value visual appeal and quality drinks.

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