Bar Valentino

This secret, 1920s themed speakeasy is a stylish take on a retro ideal, bridging by-gone sophistication with modern metropolitan mixology. Steeped in mystique that originates from its concealment, I’ll maintain the allure by keeping its location under wraps. To enter, you’ll need to ring a buzzer, parodying attempts to gain entry to someone’s apartment and, once welcome, you’ll climb a narrow, winding staircase to reach the desired scarlet lounge. You’ll behold an undeniably sexy, Art-Deco interior and a jazzy, aphrodisiac ambiance that will surely, if but momentarily, serve to mute your meddling melancholy. Cocktails average £12.50, and selections are befittingly eccentric; try  Japanese-inspired sake mixes, summery, fruity concoctions or tasteful twists on tried and tested  classics. Your drink will be prepared by friendly, expert staff with whom every detail is carefully accounted for. As advertised, this bar is an excellent place to grab some drinks before a night out. Downside? The venue is quite small (about the size of a front room, plus balcony) but if you’re lucky  enough to get a seat not at the bar, you’ll have a great time, I’m sure of it.

The Plotting Parlour

Situated on a side road off St James’s Street, this unassuming little place hosts quite the exceptional bar. Tucked away from the triviality of quotidian life, you’ll enter this den of enchantment and  unwittingly become transfixed by its vaguely vampiric air and underground, artsy vibe. Aptly named; the atmosphere is such that your every hushed word will feel as if you are about to conjure some lascivious conspiracy or scandalous affair. Perhaps this feeling is unintentional, but nonetheless it’s  amusing to play the part of a scheming villain. When selecting your poison, staff readily explain their elaborate drinks-making processes; you may find the spiel to be pretentious, but if precision in  practice matters to you, it is exactly what you’ll want to hear. Your drink will come at a premium with impeccable service, craftsmanship and locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients more than worth splashing out for. The rum plum negroni is particularly delectable and comes served on-the-rocks with a caramelised plum garnish. If you’re entirely seduced by your drink of choice (as you no-doubt will be), you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home too; search the Plotting  Parlour’s website to order a bottle, or two, for indulgence at leisure. With a sister location in Hove recently having permanently closed its doors, this bar is a last-man-standing and wholeheartedly deserves support to live on as one of the very best bars in Brighton.

The Lion and Lobster

Hear me out. This is not strictly a bar (it’s a pub), but this place is such a delight that it absolutely  merits recognition as a fine drinking establishment. In visiting this quaint, crimson slice of city expect immersion in the same charming hospitality and comforting appeal that has long been felt by the neighbouring Norfolk Square community. Pop in, and you’ll find your surroundings embellished with a pleasant, rustic décor that leaves you feeling welcome and warm. You’ll be spoiled for drink choice and changing seasons means novel, exciting options; this winter’s mulled  apple cider had a hint of spice and honey and was truly to die for. Its culinary menu is equally notable,  making this the ideal location for both a posh brunch and an elevated evening excursion. If music is what you’re after, this pub also hosts live jazz nights between six and eight on Sunday evenings that are worth your attendance. This homely hub of joy is a sincerely splendid spot in which to  spend a squiffy soirée, so don’t miss out!