The Fountain Head, Brighton

Admittedly it was a few years ago that I visited this place, but judging from the reviews it has changed little. Formerly the New Road Inn, this is a trendy made-over pub which appeals to Brighton's young and students. It's a food pub but not so gastro with fayre revolving more around pizze and 'posh' burgers. We spent most of the warm evening outside due to the smoking ban but it was a good venue for a friend's birthday party, situated in an attractive area. I'd come again if passing but would prefer to explore further afield when next in Brighton.

Official site of The Fountain Head - www.fountainheadbrighton.pub

Official site of The Fountain Head - www.fountainheadbrighton.pub

A rather modern style interior, slightly gastro in feel,mixed seating throughout. Some of the walls were of exposed brickwork the remainder were in a trendy green colour. Beers on the bar were 360 Degrees Dampfbier #44 (not as good as it was in the nearby White Rabbit),Laines Best and Cider from Orchard Pig, Hog Father. For some reason I didnt really like this pub much,and as such unlikely to return.

This is a spacious single room pub in the heart of the popular North Laine area of Brighton. The pub has bare floorboards throughout and a lot of exposed brickwork on show. The servery is sited on the back wall with a smart counter, broken midway by a large pillar, and mirrored bar back. Rows of short benches serve simple tables opposite the bar and there are some comfier sofas and armchairs around the periphery of the room. The place has a very relaxed feel, with a varied customer base notable on this visit, including football fans, family groups with children and the inevitable handful of hipsters. A decent soundtrack played throughout our visit and there is also some limited outdoor seating which was proving popular on a warm Saturday afternoon. Two ales were available - Laine Brewery Laines Best and Dark Star American Pale Ale - plus one real cider. The APA was in excellent condition and my companion tried the Best which was also in great shape. The staff seemed like a very friendly bunch, coping well with a crowded bar area and engaging in idle chit-chat with their customers. This place initially felt like it might be trying to hard to cater for all comers without actually proving satisfying for any, but after a short while the place started to grow on me and I left feeling that this was a well run pub that offers an ideal meeting point in the heart of town. The limited ale range might mean that a longer stay is unlikely, but I'd certainly call in again in passing.