Seemor

The Evening StarBWorth Trying

Name: The Evening Star
Address: 55-56 Surrey St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3PB, Brighton, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

55-56 Surrey St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3PB · Pub · 4.6/5 Google (1158 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

Beloved station-adjacent craft beer pub with standout cask and keg variety; excellent for beer lovers, basic to modest Sri Lankan street-food plates, card-only and no under-18s policy may put some off.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

The Evening Star delivers solid execution as a craft beer destination with compelling food. Exceptional bar staff knowledge and well-regarded Sri Lankan street food anchor the experience, while strong reputation among beer enthusiasts and convenient station location drive appeal. However, compact, crowded conditions and occasional service inconsistency prevent higher standing—this is a specialized pub experience rather than a comprehensive dining destination.

Restaurant Summary

A few steps from Brighton Station, this pub hums with proper cask and craft beer energy. Guests rave about rotating taps and bar staff who know their stuff, saying things like, "They helped me land a new favorite real cider." The room feels warm and wood-paneled, it can pack out before trains, and there is some outdoor space when it gets busy. The cooking leans Sri Lankan street-food from a partner kitchen: crisp lentil fritters, kottu in several styles, and vegan-friendly options. It is more about good pints with flavorful plates than full-on dining; portions read casual-snack sized to some. Families should note the reported no under-18s inside policy, which limits kids’ access even for soft drinks. While fries, lentil fritters, or mild kottu might suit some younger eaters, this destination primarily suits adult beer fans rather than family dinners.

At a Glance

Benchmark selection of cask and keg with knowledgeable bar team
Handy for pre or post train pints near the station
No under-18s inside limits family visits
Card-only payments annoy some guests
Food portions read small for hearty appetites

What Sets It Apart

Rotating cask and keg program
Sri Lankan street-food partner
Steps from Brighton Station

What People Love

Exciting rotating tap list
Well-kept cask ales
Friendly, beer-savvy staff
Classic pub atmosphere near the station

Points of Concern

Strict under-18s policy reported by multiple visitors
Card-only payments with limited signage frustrate some patrons
Occasional rude service encounters and inconsistent apologies
Some food plates feel small or underwhelming compared to expectations

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£17-23 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Pair a bold stout with Dhal Vade
Choose jackfruit kottu for a vegan main
Add vegan cheese to fries for a filling snack

Perfect For

Pre-train or post-train craft beer stop
Casual meetups with beer-enthusiast friends
Solo pint and a snack after work
Brighton pub crawl starting point

Location Insights

Area: Bustling station-adjacent strip popular with commuters and locals, classic Brighton pub energy.

Safety: Generally safe and busy with foot traffic near the station; occasional rowdy moments typical of transit hubs.

Nearby: Steps from Brighton Station; dense cluster of pubs, small shops, and residential streets off the main routes.

North LaineNorth Laine is a lively and bohemian neighborhood characterized by independent shops, cafes, and a diverse dining scene. It attracts a mix of locals and visitors seeking casual and trendy eateries in a relaxed, artsy atmosphere. The area is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and vibrant social life, making it a popular dining destination.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–23:00 Tuesday12:00–23:00 Wednesday12:00–23:00 Thursday12:00–23:00 Friday12:00–00:00 Saturday11:00–00:00 Sunday12:00–23:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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