Bombay-inspired restaurant Dishoom has opened its very first standalone, spin-off bar, and this time it’s headed to the south coast in Brighton. It’s called The Permit Room and is inspired by the beer bars and drinking holes of post-prohibition-era Bombay. Nestled in the heart of the Lanes, the bar and café is open all day, from breakfast bacon naans to late-night cocktails and brews.
Conceptually, this Brighton venture is set to be closer to a bar than a restaurant, offering a more relaxed vibe and with a focus on an exciting drinks list. On the latter front, there are a range of cocktails inspired by the flavours of Bombay, under the sub-sections: Highballs, On the Rocks, Twisted Classics, Short and Boozy, Frozen Lipsters, Morning Glories and non-alcoholic Teetotal options. Examples include a fruity Mango Lassi Punch and a Chai Caffe Martini.
The food, meanwhile, is designed to complement the drinks, with over 50% dedicated to vegan and vegetarian dishes. No red meat features at all.
Alongside a selection of breakfast dishes in the morning, the all-day menu revolves around sharing plates and snacky items, such as chaats, patties, curries and sweet dishes. Don’t go expecting more of the same at this site though. Dishoom has created an entirely new menu for The Permit Room, including the likes of a chakli and peanut masala, jackfruit berry pulao, aunty’s makli fry and ice cream with orange blossom jelly.
A rotating roster of beer collaborations lies at the heart of Dishoom Brighton. There is a Permit Room sour beer designed with local brewery UnBarred Brewery, as well as a number of others created with Hand Co Brewery. Further local suppliers include Goldstone Rum, Tigermoth Coffee Roasters and Boho Gelato.
What of the interiors? Expect the same relaxed, retro vibes at its other sites, with artwork by local artists on the walls, and a pumping playlist blasting funk, hip hop, disco and soul.