From leisurely three-course suppers to speedy snacks, London has a pre-theatre restaurant for all tastes, and many offer post-theatre dining and entertainment too. Pre-theatre menus are also an inexpensive way to sample the food at some of London's finest and most famous restaurants either side of a top show.
1. Cinnamon Soho
The younger, cheekier sibling to The Cinnamon Club and Cinnamon Kitchen, Cinnamon Soho offers relaxed dining featuring chef Vivek Singh's creations. Choose from a two- or three-course menu for pre- or post-theatre dining that includes the likes of double-cooked pork belly and Malabar plum cake.
Read More2. Indigo at One Aldwych
Spoil yourself with a pre-theatre supper in Indigo at One Aldwych Hotel, on the outskirts of Theatreland. The low-key, high-luxe interior design makes for a truly special pre-theatre meal, and the modern British fixed-price menu is excellent value for money. No time for dinner? The tasty bar food is a treat in itself.
Read More3. Portrait Restaurant
The National Portrait Gallery's restaurant offers amazing views over Trafalgar Square towards the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. Making use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, its two- or three-course pre-theatre is served from 5.30pm to 6.30pm Thursdays to Saturdays.
Read More4. Almeida Restaurant
A North London gem, Almeida is elegant but relaxed and perfect for a pre- or post-show meal thanks to its location opposite the Almeida Theatre. Opt for two or three courses from the modern French theatre menu, or relax on the sofa with a glass of wine from the extensive list.
Read More5. Inamo Soho
Set in the heart of Theatreland, Inamo Soho serves high-quality pan-Asian cuisine in stylish surroundings and with a state-of-the-art ordering system. Choose from the à la carte menu or opt for the four-dish set meal (not available during December) for a perfect budget-friendly pre-theatre feast.
Read More6. Joe Allen
Joe Allen is a favourite with London's theatre luvvies and actors, and it's easy to see why. A cosy, subterranean restaurant, it serves hearty American-style food in a setting so realistic it's like stepping into an old-school New York brasserie. Head there early for the well-priced pre-theatre menu, or opt for a late supper.
Read More7. Le Garrick
In the heart of Theatreland and minutes from Covent Garden Tube station, Le Garrick serves authentic French food in a quaint ground-floor restaurant and candlelit basement dining room. The two- or three-course pre-theatre menu is a delicious start to any evening. A hit with theatre-goers and actors alike.
Read More8. Mash
Packed with art deco elegance, this Danish-owned restaurant off Regent Street sources its fine steaks from the US, Uruguay, Australia and its homeland. The pre- and post-theatre menu here comprises either two or three courses, and can be paired with selections from an extensive wine list.
Read More9. Menier Chocolate Factory
Menier Chocolate Factory is a theatre and restaurant in one, housed in a renovated chocolate factory. Choose from à la carte or set menus, which are adapted to each show currently on stage in the theatre below. For the best value, book a Meal Deal, including a two-course meal and theatre ticket.
Read More10. Skylon
Sit back, relax and take in panoramic views of the Thames through floor-to-ceiling windows at Skylon in the Royal Festival Hall. Opt for speedy brasserie-like food or linger over two or three courses of seasonal modern European food, safe in the knowledge it's only a short walk to the National Theatre or The Globe.
Read More11. The Swan at The Globe
With views across the river Thames, modern British cuisine and the fact you can simply walk next door to Shakespeare's Globe, The Swan at The Globe is an ideal pre-show venue. The three-course theatre menu is an affordable way to sample the seasonal British food, while ensuring that you don’t miss the show.
Read More12. The Northall
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