Already enjoying a reputation as a gastro-hub with a tempting variety of restaurants, cafés and pubs, Brighton will also see pop up restaurants in back gardens, food festivals and even a gin tent, in addition to the four major May festivals (known collectively as ‘Festivals in Brighton’) consisting of Brighton Festival, Brighton Fringe, Artists Open Houses and House.
Brighton Fringe (4 May – 2 June) Fringe food highlights include The ‘Hendrick’s Carnival of Knowledge’, a travelling gin parlour of enlightenment 24 – 27 May. ‘Faulty Towers the Dining Experience’ returns to the Thistle Hotel, along with Basil and Sybil for another serving of madcap mayhem throughout May and June. Plus the ‘Foodies Festival Brighton’ on Hove Lawns, for all that’s new and exciting in gourmet cuisine and gastronomy. Watch Michelin-starred and top chefs cooking live and visit the food & drink master classes. Dine out at pop-up restaurants – or take the kids along to the Children’s Cookery Theatre and sample tasty treats from artisan producers 4 – 6 May. www.brightonfringe.org
Artists Open Houses (4-26 May) features and sells contemporary and original work by 1,300 artists and makers, in over 200 venues citywide along 13 different trails. Many pubs, cafés and restaurants will be turning into Open Houses for the month. New this year ‘The Ceramic House’ (Five Ways Trail) is opening a pop up restaurant ‘The Ceramic Kitchen’, headed by Michelin starred chef Lisa Walker. The Ceramic Kitchen will serve a mix of tapas, barbeque and modern British food on weekends in May. www.aoh.org.uk
Brighton Festival (4-26 May) announces a new partnership with Peyton & Byrne to operate the Brighton Dome’s Café-bar, 10am until post-show each night, offering a selection of drinks, snacks and more substantial dishes. In addition the Studio Bar on New Road, open each day from 11am until late, serves craft lagers, wines from local producers and new cocktail blends. The Studio Bar’s menu features charcuterie and local cheese boards plus snacks. www.brightonfestival.org
House (5-27 May) is Brighton’s curated and programmed visual arts festival. www.housefestival.org
For festival information visit: www.festivalsinbrighton.com