A L P H A B E T

11 Dyke Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3FE

A L P H A B E T is a relatively new kid on the block situated within the historic 11 Dyke Road, a Grade II listed building with an impressive European gothic visage. Built in 1867, the building has functioned as a school for working-class girls, a chapel, a theatre, a horror maze, several nightclubs, and now hosts A L P H A B E T - a self-described audio-led venue and hi-fi pub. 

Will, the owner, has done the building a real justice with the recent remodel. There’s a sort of buzzy, exclusive atmosphere when you walk into A L P H A B E T - it’s almost slightly intimidating. The ground floor has a timeless old-money gorgeousness that makes you think about enjoying a cigar - low ceilings, low lighting and rich mahogany tones. 

There’s capacity for such a stylish venue to take itself a bit too seriously, but it just isn’t the case - it’s intimate and easy to relax into. The bar boasts local favourites on draught -  Hand Brew Co. and Ascension Cider to name a couple, and a well-executed cocktail list that will both deliver distinctive twists on the classics and keep you on-trend (margarita-beer is so in right now!). The staff are skilled mixologists, passionate about top-quality cocktails, but down to earth, lovely people. 

Of course, the star of the show is the stunning Hi-Fi system delivering silk-smooth sound. The remodel was done with acoustics in mind, showcasing tech by Audio Note UK and English Acoustics - ‘delivering transcendent listening experiences’- and they do deliver. The second floor is home to a venerated music venue - prioritising exceptional sound for a well curated rotation of acts. 

Venue details