About This Pub
Ah, let me tell you about Artisan Cafe & Wine Bar – it's this cosy little gem tucked away in Darwen town centre that's really come into its own over the past seven years as a go-to for special occasions. From what I've gathered from the reviews and their website, it's fantastic for throwing a party; you get a complimentary buffet that's apparently delicious, no extra charge for the space, and even half-price on DJs or live entertainment, which sounds like a real winner if you're planning something like a birthday or anniversary. The staff seem to be the heart of the place, always helpful and making sure everything runs like clockwork, which really adds to that warm, thriving atmosphere folks rave about. On the flip side, though, it's a shame they've had to close the kitchen for regular dining because they were so swamped with events – means you can't just nip in for a bite and a drink on a whim. And with it only opening a couple of days a week, it might not suit everyone, especially if you're after a more consistent spot for a casual evening out. Overall, it's got that mix of high energy and good times when it's on form, but do keep in mind it might be hit or miss depending on the day – still, for a special do, I'd say it's worth checking out!
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The atmosphere is absolutely buzzing, especially for parties – it's got that upmarket vibe in the heart of Darwen that's perfect for celebrations.
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They offer a complimentary buffet with no venue charge, which is a brilliant touch and makes it feel like great value for money.
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The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, always going the extra mile to help with setups and make your event run smoothly.
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It's got a stylish decor and a fantastic selection of drinks, making it a welcoming spot for a get-together.
Cons
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It's only open a couple of days a week, which can be a bit limiting if you're hoping to pop in spontaneously.
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The kitchen's closed for regular table service, so you won't find a full menu of meals – it's more about the events and drinks side.
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It can sometimes feel quiet, like on a Sunday afternoon, so it might not always have that lively energy you're after.
Contact Information
17 Bridge St, Darwen BB3 2AA
+441254916235
Wine bar
Closed
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 14:00 - 01:00 |
| Saturday (Today) | 14:00 - 02:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Recent Reviews
Wow.what can I say. We had our daughters 21st birthday party on a saturday afternoon. The venue itself is lovely, right in the centre of Darwen.You get to hire half of the venue for your own party, but can also use the rest of the bar if need be.You also get a complimentary buffet, which I have to say was amazing.And everybody commented on how good it was.Jason the owner was amazing in helping everything run smoothly.Keeping intouch from the minute we booked it, and also being around the day of the party to help with anything.Also a big thankyou to the amazing bar staff that couldnt do enough to help on the day. Even helping with the setting up of the party decorations.So a big THANKYOU to the Artisan for making our daughters 21st birthday amazing from start to finish.x
Had my daughters 21st birthday here on Saturday afternoon. Hosted by Jason and his amazing bar staff, who were fantastic!...... Thanks for your help setting up too!!! The venue was big enough for around 50 of us, and they handled it, with ease!
The buffet was fantastic! And the organising of our music playlist and t.v photo screening was brilliant. Thanks again, Artisan! Top job!!👍
We booked this venue for my partners 40th. They accommodated us to bring our balloon arch and cake more earlier than our party to the venue which was a massive help! I paid a deposit and this includes a private section of the venue for you and your guests and buffet, there is an amount you need to spend behind the bar to get this back, but when you work out prices people spend it was actually amazing value. Even though there was some members of the public in the other sections they were also really lovely. Artisan Cafe and Wine Bar also allow you to book your own DJ/ Music entertainment or you can book their resident DJ for half the price. All in all a fabulous venue that I wouldn’t hesitate to book again or recommend to my friends and family for them book.
Staff: Really friendly bar staff behind the bar who gave great service and chatted/ laughed with our guests.
Venue: Stylish venue with beautiful decor, in the center of Darwen. It’s ao easy to find and the taxi rank is 2 minutes walk away so me and my partner could really let our hair down
Buffet/Drinks: Really tasty food and lots for everyone… we had more than enough left over. They have a great range of drinks and shots behind the bar, they serve lovely Rose wine too!
Booking: I spoke with the manager over Facebook messenger and this made it so easy to book at my own pace (as life does get hectic) and the manager was responsive and so friendly. Any questions I had were answered promptly and just the customer service itself gave me confidence in the venue.
Overall 10/10 all round! Thanks for a really great night Artisan Cafe and Wine Bar x
Held my husbands 50th party here. The complimentary buffet was delicious, the staff attentive and the atmosphere was fantastic. Highly reccomend should you wish to have somewhere for a special gathering. Thanks everyone for making the eve perfect. Everyone especially liked the photo displays on the screen which Jason organised for me in advance. Every detail was taken care of.
The family and I visited the Artisan cafe for a drink following a walk on the moors.
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The cafe boasts a convenient location in Darwen town centre, a great selection of drinks, and stylish decor. Service was great thanks to a friendly host, however the cafe itself was very quiet but it was a Sunday so this is likely to be the reason.
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Definitely return when walking in and around the Darwen moors.
G“
Greg “Wigan Wanderers” Knight
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