Cafés will be allowed to reopen for al-fresco dining and drinks from Monday.

As life slowly returns to 'normal' after months in lockdown, hospitality venues have been given the green-light to reopen from April 12. 

With England entering stage two of the Prime Minister Boris Johnson's 'roadmap' out of lockdown, cafés will be able to open outside. 

While many of these venues have been offering takeaway and delivery service, there is nothing like enjoying a hot meal or drink at the venue itself.

Customers will be served outside and they can meet in a group of up to six people from different households.

Here are five Brighton cafés that are opening their outdoor areas this April:

1. Coffeetzar, Trafalgar Street

The Argus:

The Coffeetzar (Facebook)

This artisan coffee shop with a Mediterranean feel is the ideal place to meet up with friends after months apart for a delicious cake, light meal or pastry. 

Currently open for takeaway Coffeetzar will be opening its outside seating area for customers from Monday. 

Famous locally, one rave reviewer said: "Great coffee. Great cakes. Solid selection of plant milks and there are some excellent gluten free and vegan cake options."

2. The Laughing Dog, The Octagon, Mariners Quay

The Argus:

The Laughing Dog (Facebook)

The Laughing Dog is a family run, independent café and shop selling beautiful gifts and wellness products. 

Outside there are a limited number of tables that are the ideal spot to bask in the midday sun while reading a book or having a natter. 

They serve a range of freshly baked goods including cakes and pastries as well as toasties and salad bowls to name a few.

3. Starfish and Coffee, Egremont Place, Queens Park

The Argus:

Starfish and Coffee (Facebook)

This café specialises in fresh and homemade food.

They serve hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, omelettes, puddings as well as daily specials.

Lunch Monkey Café has two outdoor tables- one with four seats and one with six.

They are operating on a first come first serve basis and not taking bookings at the moment.

4. Sixteen, Sydney Street

The sunny patio at Cafe Sixteen is a cool and quirky spot to enjoy some of the best coffee in town. 

"The loveliest café in Brighton. Such kind and friendly owners, excellent food for a good price," said one review.

They are also the only rooftop bar in Bradford, seating around 25 people at a time.

Freshly baked cakes and light meals are available with options for all dietary requirements. 

5. Café Coho, Ship Street

Café Coho is another establishment that will be opening their outdoor facilities to the public.

They offer delicious coffee for even the most discerning as well as a range of scrumptious baked goods and meals. 

The unique café has more than 500 reviews and is rated a stellar 4.5 on Google.

One review said: "Delicious coffees and cakes. The brunch is also excellent. My go to when in Brighton. Decent amount of outdoor seating too."

Which local businesses are you going to support when lockdown restrictions are eased?