CuppaPug: The New Rescue Dog Cafe at Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina has a new addition that is quite different from the usual retail and dining spots. CuppaPug officially opened its doors this week on Thursday, March 5, bringing its "Coffee with a Cause" concept to the waterfront. This is the brand’s sixth location, joining sites in London, Manchester, and even a couple in the US. If you have been around the Marina lately, you might have noticed the vibrant pink aesthetic of the new space. It is designed as a place where you can grab a coffee or a themed smoothie while hanging out with a group of rescue pugs that are looking for their forever homes.

The resident crew at the Brighton branch includes ten pugs: Pearl, Peaches, Blossom, Dory, Minnie, Penny, Polly, Tulip, Pixie, and Cookie. You will also likely run into Gizmo, the pug who inspired the whole project. The setup here is not just about having a dog nearby while you drink your latte; it is a central part of the CuppaPug Rescue initiative. The organization works with local charities to provide a place for pugs that have been surrendered or need rehabilitation. They have set up strict house rules to make sure the environment stays safe and comfortable for the dogs, which is something they prioritize over the typical cafe experience. The pugs are trained and kept stimulated to ensure their wellbeing while they interact with visitors.

If you are visiting, you will see some pugs wearing pink bandanas. These are the ones currently available for adoption. The idea is for adoptions to happen organically—you spend time with the dogs, see if there is a connection, and then you can start the application process. It is a thorough journey that involves a visit, an application form, a video home check, and a trial period to ensure it is the right fit for both the pug and the owner. There is also a donation requested for adoptions, usually between £500 and £1,000, which goes directly back into supporting their rescue efforts. While you are there, you can try their menu of cakes and hot drinks, and they even have treats from the local Brighton company W’zis available to reward the pugs when they show off their tricks.

This opening fits into a broader shift at Brighton Marina for 2026, which the management is calling a Revive and Refresh phase. There is a clear focus on wellbeing and community-led businesses right now, with other spots like Vibe Chiropractic and Marina Dentalcare contributing to a more health-conscious atmosphere. It is a trend we see across the city, from the community crowdfunding efforts for the Rotunda Cafe in Preston Park to established spots like Presuming Ed on London Road that have long focused on being more than just a place to buy a drink. CuppaPug adds to this independent culture by repurposing a commercial space for social good, offering a sanctuary for the animals while giving locals a different way to spend their afternoon. The venue also plans to expand its offerings to include a SEN room and puppy social areas as they move out of their initial launch phase.