Welcome to
Brighton Festival
Brighton Festival – Food and Drink Guide
The Brighton Festival is one of the UK’s largest and most established arts festivals, taking place annually in May. Since its inception in 1967, it has grown into a vibrant celebration of culture, offering a diverse range of performances and events, including theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and literature. Attracting both local and international talent, the festival showcases cutting-edge performances alongside family-friendly entertainment, catering to all tastes and ages.
Held across various venues throughout the city, from the iconic Brighton Dome to intimate theatres, parks, and pop-up spaces, the festival transforms Brighton into a buzzing hub of creativity. Patrons can expect an eclectic mix of acts, with past highlights ranging from world-class orchestras and opera to avant-garde contemporary art and street performances.
This page is primarily dedicated to helping you discover where to enjoy food and drink during the Brighton Festival. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before a show, a drink to unwind afterwards, or a meal to complement your festival experience, we’ll guide you to the best spots across Brighton to make the most of your visit.
The Warren and Brighton festival
Located on Victoria Gardens, The Warren is a vibrant hub during the Brighton Festival, putting you right in the middle of the action. Known for hosting a variety of alternative Fringe events—including talks, theatre, and cabaret—The Warren is also a popular spot for those who just want to soak up the festival atmosphere. With its lively pop-up bars and food kiosks, it’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a drink, and grab a bite to eat while taking in the buzzing festival vibes.
The Warren’s energy can get a little lively, especially as the evening progresses, but it’s always good-natured and family-friendly until bedtime. For dining options nearby, you’re spoilt for choice with areas like North Laine, Preston Circus, Kemptown, and central Brighton all within easy reach—because in Brighton, nothing is too far away!
The Spiegeltent
The Spiegeltent, like The Warren, offers an immersive festival experience, whether you’re there to catch world-class cabaret or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. This iconic venue is a favourite during the Brighton Festival, with its eclectic mix of performances and buzzing ambience. For those feeling peckish, Space + Thyme—known for its locally sourced and delicious dishes found in many Brighton pubs—will be serving up food to match the sensational acts.
Don’t miss the Artbar Cockatoo Cocktail Emporium, a staple for Spiegeltent regulars and newcomers alike. Keep an eye out for the vintage Morris Ambulance adorned with a giant revolving birdcage, offering a whimsical setting for your festival drinks.
With its central location, the Spiegeltent is ideally placed, giving you access to a wealth of dining options nearby. Brighton’s vibrant Kemptown is just around the corner, and you’re only a short stroll from the iconic Brighton seafront, perfect for making the most of your festival experience.
Pre event or pre theatre dining
Start your evening with some quality pre-theatre dining. Many establishments in Brighton offer express or early evening menus, perfect for keeping you well-fed and refreshed before your main event. Here’s our pick of the best pre-theatre dining spots to help you enjoy your evening to the fullest.
If you’ve splurged on those must-have tickets, there’s no need to let a grumbling stomach spoil the show. Check out this year’s BRAVO winners for pocket-friendly options, offering quality meals at great value. Whether you’re looking for Brighton’s Best Restaurants, top lunch spots, or an indulgent brunch, you’ll find plenty of recommendations.
For those catching a matinee performance, our Lunchtime Guide is packed with delicious options to keep you satisfied ahead of the show.
Cocktails Please!
As the crowds spill out of theatres and tents, the atmosphere is charged with a craving for more excitement! To keep the night alive, we’ve curated an excellent selection of cocktail bars for you to explore—each boasting mixology flair to rival any acrobat, and as vibrant and punchy as the most dazzling cabarets.
For the latest on where to find the best cocktails in town, be sure to check out the BRAVO Best Cocktail top twenty winners, where you’ll discover the hottest spots to get your cocktail fix and keep the festival vibes going strong.
Brighton Pubs and Brighton festival
Cocktails not your thing? Then why not head to one of Brighton’s amazing pubs or bars to dissect your evening’s viewing over a pint. During the Brighton Festival, many bars transform extra space into makeshift theatres for aspiring comedians, musicians, and performers, so who knows where the night might take you.
And if you’re still not ready to call it a night after last orders, there’s plenty more to explore. Check out our Brighton nightlife guide to discover the best spots to keep the festival fun going well into the early hours.
Explore Brighton’s Lanes
award winners
There are show stoppers, and then there are show stoppers. If you’re looking to truly make a night of it—whether to impress or celebrate—the meal before or after can make all the difference. With our BRAVO Best Restaurants in Brighton winners, your only concern might be the meal stealing the spotlight (but that’s hardly a problem!).
For nationally recognised venues, including those with Michelin stars and AA awards, be sure to check out these culinary superstars as well, ensuring your night is nothing short of spectacular from start to finish.
