Best Pre-Theatre Dining in London
These restaurants have speedy set menus for affordable prices – all within walking distance of one of London’s top theatres.
Theatre and food have long gone hand-in-hand. In fact, some of the first audiences at Shakespeare’s Globe bought food and drink during performances, enjoying apples, nuts, and gingerbread – washed down with hearty ale. Thankfully, the experience is much more refined for modern audiences. The art of the prix fixe set menu has been perfected by many of London’s best restaurants, often at fantastic prices. Two- or three-course menus are often packaged with something special like a signature cocktail, and the kitchen operations have been optimized to accommodate theater-goers looking for a satisfying meal without missing the show. Here are our favourite spots for a pre-theatre dinner before (or after) attending the hottest new productions in London.
-
Claridge’s, Mayfair
Best pre-theatre menu before: The London Palladium (a ten-minute walk away)
Claridge’s dining room is as opulent as its facade, decked with tall blooms, retro stained glass windows, statement lighting, and green leather booths. Most impressive of all is the symmetrical marble-topped bar where cocktails are served to well-dressed diners. Three-course menus feature warm bread with salty butter, followed by starters like ham hock terrine or fresh baby beetroot salad. For mains, enjoy soft beef cheek bourguignon or delightful vegetarian options. If you have room for dessert, indulge in rich chocolate souffle or refreshing pavlova.
Address: Claridge’s, Brook Street, London W1K 4HR
Price: £49 for two courses; £58 for three courses
Time: Monday to Friday, 5.30pm – 6.45pm -
Frenchie, Covent Garden
Best pre-theatre menu before watching a show at: The Adelphi (a five-minute walk away)
Chef Gregory Marchand’s Covent Garden location is even smarter than the original in Paris, with colourful decor and a sleek bar. Nibble on Parmesan gougères and warm bacon scones before moving on to starters like watermelon gazpacho or hearty pappardelle. Mains include seared cod accompanied by courgettes, and the cocktail selection is strong and stylish.
Address: Frenchie, 16 Henrietta Street, London WC2 8QH
Price: £28 for two courses; £33 for three courses
Time: Daily, 5.30pm – 6.30pm -
The Delaunay, Holborn
Best pre-theatre menu before: Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre (a one-minute walk away)
The Delaunay offers a classic dining experience with impeccable service. The prix fixe menu includes starters like smoked salmon or roast tomato soup, followed by mains such as grilled chicken or mushroom stroganoff, finishing with a decadent sachertorte for dessert.
Address: The Delaunay, 55 Aldwych, Holborn, London WC2B 4BB
Price: £29.75 for two courses; £34.75 for three courses
Time: Daily, until 6pm and after 10pm -
Spring, Somerset House
Best pre-theatre menu before watching a show at: The Savoy Theatre and The Lyceum Theatre, both a short walk away
Spring’s menu is fresh and seasonal, reflecting chef Skye Gyngell’s philosophy. Diners can enjoy delightful dishes crafted from ingredients straight from the kitchen, creating a unique and eco-friendly dining experience. From handmade pasta to luscious beef meatballs, every dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Address: Spring, Somerset House, Lancaster Place, London WC2R 1LA
Price: £30
Time: Daily, 5.30pm – 6.30pm -
The Petersham, Covent Garden
Best pre-theatre menu before: performances at the Royal Opera House (a four-minute walk away)
This Covent Garden location offers a unique charm, boasting a vibrant atmosphere with beautiful decor. The menu includes dishes like watercress soup and saffron risotto, highlighting fresh ingredients and beautifully presented plates ideal for a theatre evening out.
Address: Petersham Nurseries, Floral Court, London WC2E 8JD
Price: £32 for two courses; £38 for three courses
Time: Monday to Saturday, 5pm to 6pm -
Social Eating House, Soho
Best pre-theatre menu before watching a show at: The London Palladium (a five-minute walk away)
Renowned chef Jason Atherton presents a relaxed vibe with comforting yet sophisticated British dishes. The menu changes frequently, featuring items like Cornish plaice or charcoal-grilled steak, perfect before a night at the theatre.
Address: Social Eating House, 58 Poland Street, Soho, London W1F 7NR
Price: £24.50 for two courses; £29.50 for three courses (drinks not included)
Time: Tuesday to Friday, 5.45pm – 6.30pm -
Gunpowder, Tower Bridge
Best pre-theatre menu before watching a show at: Bridge Theatre (a two-minute walk away)
This modern Indian restaurant offers a vibrant pre-theatre feast with authentic dishes. Start with their signature aloo chat, followed by tandoori saag paneer or beef pepper fry, finishing with a delicious dessert for a full culinary experience.
Address: Gunpowder, 4 Duchess Walk, London SE1 2RZ
Price: £22 for two courses; £25 for three courses
Time: Monday to Saturday, 5pm – 6.30pm -
Bocca Di Lupo, Soho
Best pre-theatre menu before watching a show at: Apollo Theatre and Lyric Theatre (a two-minute walk away)
This beloved Italian restaurant offers a delicious pre-theatre menu that changes daily, featuring fresh ingredients and robust flavors, ensuring a delightful dining experience just moments from the theatres.
Address: Bocca Di Lupo, 12 Archer Street, London W1D 7BB
Price: Starter, main and salad for £15; add dessert and an espresso for an extra £7
Time: Served daily, 5.30pm – 6.30pm and 9.30pm – 11pm
