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🐦 Records, Romance, and Riffs
Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with an anniversary record fair, a hidden Japanese gem in the North Laine, and a massive selection of comedy and concerts across the city.
Ben Watkins
February 13, 2026
Happy Friday, Brighton!
Valentine’s weekend is here, and whether you're looking for candlelit romance at the Pavilion or bumper car speed-dating on the pier, we’ve got a huge selection of events to pick from. We’re also looking into a hidden Japanese gem in North Laine, and a Kemptown cafe/bistro serving up everything from Dubai pistachio pancake stacks to lemon garlic lamb chops.
Here’s what’s squawking this week:
🍱 Fresh onigiri and konbini vibes at this North Laine hidden gem
🍴 Mediterranean flair and creative small plate dining in Kemptown
💿 Anniversary record fairs, interactive science festivals, and a glamorous night of Broadway love songs
🎤 Sharp political satire from Daliso Chaponda and high-energy observations from Vittorio Angelone
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13/2/26 - 15/2/26
💿 Shoreham Record Fair: 1st Anniversary ⏰ Saturday, 10:00am Dig through 45 tables of vinyl treasures at this festive fair celebrating one year of digging and spinning. Whether you’re a pro collector or just starting out, the atmosphere is guaranteed to have a crate with your name on it. ⛈️ Daliso Chaponda: Topical Storm ⏰ Friday, 8:00pm The Have I Got News For You regular delivers a sharp, hilarious hour of jokes inspired by our chaotic news cycle. Expect seasoned wit from a comic who’s seen the headlines from both sides and knows exactly how to roast them. 🎻 A Little Bit in Love: Danielle de Niese ⏰ Saturday, 7:30pm Opera superstar Danielle de Niese joins the London Philharmonic Orchestra for a night of glamorous Broadway love songs. It’s a sassy, sexy set of love letters from the likes of Sondheim and Bernstein that’ll set the perfect romantic mood. 🎭 Blood Brothers ⏰ Friday, 7:30pm The legendary West End hit returns to Brighton to tell the heart-wrenching tale of twins separated at birth. It’s a searing look at the class divide and fate that’ll stay with you long after the final curtain drops. | 🏳️🌈 Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus: Don’t Go Breaking My Heart ⏰ Sunday, 7:30pm Host Lee Peart joins the chorus for an intimate night of solos and duets celebrating all things romance for Valentine's. All proceeds help fund the group's upcoming trip to represent Brighton at the Various Voices festival in Europe. 🌈 Rainbow Craft Events ⏰ Saturday, 11:00am – 5:00pm Support local artisan makers at this vibrant fair showcasing Brighton's most creative and talented independent people. You'll find a wide variety of unique, handmade products that are perfect for a one-of-a-kind gift. 🧪 Brighton Science Festival: Hands-On Half Term ⏰ Saturday, 4:00pm This week-long wonderland of "mad science" kicks off with slime-making, incredible machines, and explosive chemistry experiments. It's the perfect way to keep the kids entertained while learning how to cook like a chemist. 🎤 Vittorio Angelone: You Can’t Say Nothing Any More ⏰ Saturday, 7:30pm The Italian-Irish comedian brings his sharp, observational stand-up to the Dome for a night of fast-paced, high-energy laughs. Having traded classical music for the mic, Vittorio is currently one of the most exciting voices on the UK circuit. |
🇯🇵 Kantenya
Far from your average grocery store, this modest storefront is a tiny slice of Tokyo hidden right in the heart of the North Laine. A local Japanese family is behind the counter, replicating a traditional "konbini" (convenience shops found across Japan) where everyday staples, from plates and chopsticks to cooking essentials, meet high-quality, authentic food. While it looks like an unassuming mini-supermarket from the outside, it’s actually the locals’ best-kept secret for a quick and genuine lunch.
The Onigiri (rice triangles) are a real highlight worth the visit alone, and are prepped fresh every single morning. You’ll find classics like Salmon and Tuna Mayo, but the pro-move is the new Chicken Karaage or the punchy Umeboshi (pickled sour plum). Be sure to snag the Pumpkin Croquettes from the hot cabinet if there are any left, or grab the £4.29 lunch deal for a main like Ebi Katsu and rice, plus you can add a Miso Soup for just an extra quid.
It is easily the most affordable way to source restaurant-grade ingredients to make your own Sushi rolls at home, including high-quality Sashimi fish, without the typical North Laine price tag. You'll find items here that are rare even online, like Matcha Pocky (covered biscuit sticks), Thai Mogu Mogu drinks (with jellied coconut pieces), and a massive array of different instant noodles. Whether you're popping in for a quick lunch break, stocking up on speciality ingredients, or just hunting for a new snack to try, this spot is a certified neighbourhood hero.
📍 5-6 Gloucester Rd, North Laine
⏰ 10-7pm (Mon-Sat), 11-5pm (Sun)
🧑💻 Their Instagram
🍴 Â Table
Kemptown snagged another gem for its crown last year with an all-day bistro that brings modern Mediterranean flair to breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Its exposed brick walls and airy layout create a retreat from the heavy foot traffic of central Brighton, switching effortlessly from a casual morning coffee spot to a classy evening restaurant. Whether you're catching up over a morning coffee or sharing a bottle of French wine with the family, the space feels intentional and relaxed.
Brunch options in Kemptown are virtually endless, so any newcomer needs a serious hook to stand out, and  Table definitely delivers. The menu spans the Mediterranean and further afield, moving from Shakshuka and Eggs Florentina to Dubai Pistachio Pancakes and Buffalo Chicken Benedict. You’re genuinely spoilt for choice, which turns a quick menu scan into a much tougher (but tastier) decision than usual.
Once the sun sets, the focus pivots to an extensive dinner selection featuring over 30 different small plates and mains. You’ll likely end up going full meze-style with Honey Halloumi, Padron Peppers, and Corn Ribs before even thinking about those Lemon Garlic Lamb Chops. Managing a 50-dish rotation across the whole day is a massive undertaking, but this spot hits the mark regardless of when you drop in.
📍 75 St James’s Street, Kemptown
⏰ 8am-9pm (Mon-Sun)
🧑💻 Website & Bookings
13/2/2026 - 15/2/2026
Friday
🕯️ Candlelight: Coldplay vs Ed Sheeran
Friday, 9:00pm @ Royal Pavilion
Experience the hits of Coldplay and Ed Sheeran performed by a string quartet in the stunning, candlelit Royal Pavilion. More Info
🏎️ Bumper Car Speed-Dating
Friday, 7:00pm @ Brighton Palace Pier
Ditch the digital swipes for actual sparks and chaotic fun with this unique speed-dating event on the pier's dodgems. More Info
🤣 Filthy Fridays With Zoe Lyons & Special Guests
Friday, 8:00pm @ The Brunswick, Hove
Mock the Week star Zoe Lyons headlines the opening night of this new comedy venue on the Brunswick's main stage. More Info
😆 Sophie McCartney
Friday, 8:00pm @ The Old Market, Hove
The "mammoth" of motherhood comedy tackles perimenopausal panic and the trials of being "too old to be young." More Info
🃏 Kitty Cassis: Kitty's Salon
Friday, 8:00pm @ Caroline of Brunswick
Join Kitty for her monthly pop-up extravaganza featuring gory gossip and a rotating cast of special guests. More Info
😂 Darren Walsh: Do You Like Puns?
Friday, 7:00pm @ Komedia
The UK's pun-heavyweight champion delivers a masterclass in one-liners, sound effects, and award-winning wordplay. More Info
🎭 Across the Square
Friday, 7:30pm @ The Barn Theatre, Southwick
This historical drama follows Lady Ottoline Morrell as she navigates the complexities of the Bloomsbury Group in 1917. More Info
Saturday
✨ Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works
Saturday, 7:00pm @ Royal Pavilion
Experience the epic movie scores of Hans Zimmer performed by a string quartet in a stunning candlelit setting. More Info
🥂 Boss Brunch: Drag Extravaganza
Saturday, 12:30pm @ Komedia
Brighton’s newest bottomless brunch features high-energy drag entertainment, delicious food, and plenty of fizz. More Info
🧣 Taylor Swift Galentine’s Party (U14s)
Saturday, 12:30pm @ AMEX Community Stadium
Young Swifties can enjoy a tribute performance, friendship bracelet making, and a glitter station at this girlie Galentine's party. More Info
🎨 First Annual Open Call Exhibition
Saturday, 10:00am @ Kellie Miller Arts
This free showcase celebrates Sussex talent with original works from 60 local artists across multiple mediums.
❤️ ‘Brighton Love’ Micro Festival
Saturday, 12:00pm @ Artista, Brighton
A joyful Valentine’s celebration of local art, music, and connection featuring a playful, interactive "love playground." More Info
✨ House of Life
Saturday, 8:00pm @ Brighton Dome
This "feel-good sensation" uses music and storytelling to turn strangers into friends through a blast of collective joy. More Info
🍵 Tea, Sound & Traditional Arts
Saturday, 2:00pm – 4:30pm @ Flow State, Hove
Celebrate Chinese New Year with a calming 2.5-hour workshop featuring tea rituals, crafts, and a guided sound bath. More Info
💘 Valentine's Day Single 'n' Mingle (30s & 40s)
Saturday, 8:00pm @ Bohemia Brighton
Skip the digital swipes and connect with other singletons in person at this stylish Valentine's social in the Lanes. More Info
💃 Valentine’s Day Cuban Dance Party
Saturday, 6:30pm @ Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham
The evening starts with a dance class followed by an eight-piece live band playing infectious Cuban salsa rhythms. More Info
Sunday
🐱 Saaniya Abbas: Hellarious
Sunday, 8:00pm @ The Forge Comedy Club, Brighton
Saaniya dives into cultural taboos and internet fame with her signature "feline mischief" in this personal comedy hour. More Info
🎷 Rotunda Jazz
Sunday, 3:00pm – 6:00pm @ Rotunda Café, Preston Park
Lucy Pickering hosts a monthly jazz afternoon featuring guest soloists, a top-class trio, and delicious homemade cakes. More Info
🎺 Brighton Big Band Swing Dance
Sunday, 1:30pm @ The Barn Theatre, Southwick
Dust off your dancing shoes for a fabulous afternoon of live big band swing music in Southwick. More Info
🎸 The Doors: An Evening In Laurel Canyon
Sunday, 7:00pm @ The Brunswick, Hove
A live six-piece band performs the greatest hits of The Doors alongside music from the legends of Laurel Canyon. More Info
👟 The Next Step: Legacy World Tour
Sunday, 6:30pm @ Brighton Dome
The cast of the global hit series celebrates 10 seasons of dance and friendship with showstopping new choreography. More Info
⛓️ Deviants Market: Night Of The Living Deviants
Sunday, 10:30am @ Komedia, Brighton
A queer kink market featuring LGBTQIA+ small businesses and raffle prizes in support of trans charities. More Info
Live Music
HotWax | Chalk | Friday, 6:30pm | Tickets
Sick Joy | Dust | Friday, 7pm | Tickets
The Cureheads | Concorde 2 | Friday, 7pm | Tickets
Thousand Yard Stare | Prince Albert | Friday, 7pm | Tickets
FROST | Alphabet | Friday, 10pm | Tickets
Wilkinson | Concorde 2 | Friday, 11pm | Tickets
Newtown Neurotics + Attila the Stockbroker | Prince Albert | Saturday | Tickets
Rey Rave | The Brunswick | Saturday | Tickets
Magic of Motown | Brighton Centre | Saturday | Tickets
Day Fever | Concorde 2 | Saturday | Tickets
Badger | Concorde 2 | Saturday | Tickets
Gal Pals x Dykes on Decks | Komedia | Saturday | Tickets
Refugee Valentine | Rose Hill | Saturday | Tickets
holdtight. | Quarters | Saturday| Tickets
The Rosadocs | Hope & Ruin | Sunday | Tickets