The Prince Albert, Brighton

Used to frequent this music-loving, hip'n'happening place back in the mid-00s, so we thought we'd give it a go for old times' sake. By golly, has this place has gone downhill, or should I say uphill given the steepness of the prices! �4.25 for a 175ml wine, conveniently enough not displayed anywhere on their price board of similarly pricey (but at least very sippable) lagers and ales. Service, of course, with no smiles.

Food menu is a similar story - 8 quid for nachos, same for a burger and a whopping �11 for fajitas. I can't comment on the quality but guys.... seriously? There's an authentic, licenced and highly rated Mexican restaurant just a couple of streets away with most main meals at half that price.

Amongst all this jolly profiteering, I was somewhat perplexed to find that Gents toilets are just as pee-poor as they always were. Now complete with cublicle doors that have no locks. Nice work!

On the plus side, the upstairs acts as an intimate music venue and remains well worth checking out for up and coming local talents. The lounge area to the left of the bar has also improved - some very nice furniture and complimentary lighting perfect for first dates.

In summary then, a mixed bag and certainly a massive slap in the face for all who previously had this place down as a so-called 'alternative' den with plenty of beers n' cheers for the common man. Gentrification has sucked the soul out of this place. I would recommend the many cheaper and no-less idiosyncratic North Laine pubs that lurk nearby. I'm afraid this is no longer a pub fit to have John Peel's portrait on the side.

19 Oct 2012 00:00