Tucked away in Brighton’s North Laine on its namesake Vine Street, Vine is the kind of bar where you’re almost guaranteed to bump into someone you know. On sunny afternoons, the crowd spills out onto the pavement with curb-side drinks and snacks, while inside the warm glow, good music, and beautiful bottles set the tone. At the centre of it all is Luke - owner, host, and long time friend of Peggs & son - who also happens to be our very own Finn’s brother.
For the first chapter in our new Friends of Peggs series, we headed to Vine with a selection of fresh arrivals from the shop, dressed Luke in a few looks, and talked clothes, style, drinks, and the future of one of Brighton’s favourite bars.
LUKE & VINE
P&S: For people who haven’t been, how would you describe Vine in three words?
Luke: Natural, lively, welcoming.
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P&S: What inspired Vine, and why Brighton?
Luke: It has been a natural evolution. We started off differently but over five years it has grown into something completely new. The refurb last November transformed it again and now it feels warmer, more welcoming, and more “us.” Brighton was always the right home for it, full of people who value creativity and independents.
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P&S: Favourite part of running a bar?
Luke: The people. Watching connections form over a glass of something special never gets old.
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P&S: How would you sum up the vibe?
Luke: Warm lighting, good music, beautiful bottles, and the feeling you can stay for one glass or all night.
LOCAL LOVE
P&S: Favourite local independents?
Luke: VOYA, Love’s Pizza, Bee May Bakery, Resident Records, Mr Bongo, Peggs & Son, Loam, Komodo Coffee, MED, Alberta’s, Hole In The Wall for some excellent pints, The Well, and Patio which is soon to be everyone’s favourite.
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P&S: What does it mean to be independent in Brighton?
Luke: It is about being part of the city’s fabric, contributing to its personality and supporting others doing the same.
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P&S: If you could swap jobs with another Brighton business owner?
Luke: Gomi. They make something beautiful and sustainable out of waste.
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P&S: How is Brighton changing, and what should stay the same?
Luke: It is getting more polished but I hope it never loses that creative, slightly messy energy.
EXCLUSIVE
STYLE
P&S: How would you describe your style?
Luke: Relaxed but put together. Work-ready but good for after-hours too.
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P&S: Day-to-day wardrobe?
Luke: Right now, shorts and a classic Armor Lux white tee.
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P&S: If Vine had a “uniform”?
Luke: Whatever you want, no questions asked.
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P&S: Brands or designers that deserve more love?
Luke: It changes for me all the time.
QUICK-FIRE
P&S: Who pours a better pint, you or Finn?
Luke: Me, no questions.
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P&S: Dream guest, living or dead?
Luke: Anthony Bourdain.
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P&S: If you were not running Vine?
Luke: Travelling, working with producers, telling their stories.
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P&S: Best-dressed regular?
Luke: Emmanuel. She comes in the most incredible fits, bright colours, and always nails it.
P&S: What’s next for Vine?
Luke: Keep your eyes peeled for late September. 👀
