This is NSC, we are all middle aged men. We don't do lively.
I've been for one night out in Brighton in about two years but we went to the new incarnation of William IV and that was good.
Bottom's Rest is also good.
Pubs: Brewdog, Craft Beer Co, Brighton Bier Haus, The Albert, Hope and Ruin
Food: New Club, Curry Leaf Cafe, Plateau (bar here also good, consider lunch here), Burger Brothers for a bite.
Clubs: Are shit I'm afraid. Patterns, Green Door Store