Cactus Hound Bar — Restaurant in Hastings

The Cactus Hound is a great place for meeting up with friends or just sitting and reading. What I like about the place is the ambience and lack of uniformity. Every table is different. They range from the cantina table with naff chairs, the intimate table or table for mates, decadent lounging on sofas, through to what might be a hen night long table. Whilst one could go to the Cactus for a wine or beer, they specialise in tequila cocktails which transcend to a bit of an art. If, like me you haven't tried these before, I strongly recommend you ask and discuss the menu with the host who will helpfully guide you through smooth dark rich offerings to refreshing colourful delights depending on your desires. They currently have a pomegranate special created to support the Legacy of War charity which whisked me away to Mesopotamia. Before Lockdown 1.0, The Cactus used to host a great open mike music evening (St Leonards seems to have a disproportionate number of talented musicians). Unfortunately there is currently no sign of this restarting in the immediate future. As of September 2021, though not restrictive, the venue is still covid cautious with table service etc. so you can socialise without pandemic anxiety. I commend The Cactus...

Really rude bar staff. Avoid!! Went for a drink and spoke to the only free staff member in front of the bar, we asked if there were any seats to stay for a drink, no one was present at the entrance hence why we asked at the bar, there was nowhere else to stand. Whilst the girl went off to clear our table, the bar tender aggressively shouted at us “don’t stand at the bar”. Very very rude and unnecessary?? We left and didn’t wait to seated!! Went to the Piper and had a great night, where the mood was more relaxed. Hey cactus hound, why...

Should be one of the best bars in Hastings & St Leonards, but sadly isn't. seriously overpriced and far too much of a trek from the seafront or the centre of town to bother, and sadly too far away from anywhere else, but not a bad place to stop for a quick drink if you are passing through Warrior Square station. The music isn't too bad when it's quiet enough to be unnoticeable background noise, and the live music they have is truly awful. The food is ok but nothing special. its not worth staying longer than 1...