Best Pre-Theatre Dining Spots in London

London's vibrant theatre scene is complemented by a diverse array of dining options. Whether you're catching a West End musical, a Shakespearean play at the Globe, or an avant-garde performance at the National Theatre, finding the perfect pre-theatre dining spot can enhance your evening out. From elegant fine dining establishments to trendy modern eateries, the city offers an eclectic mix of culinary experiences. Here's a guide to some of the best pre-theatre dining spots in London, ensuring you enjoy a delightful meal before the curtain rises...

The place to sweep your date off their feet before hitting the theatre, Clos Maggiore is one of London’s most romantic restaurants. Book a table in their blossom-adorned, Tuscan-style Conservatory and enjoy their contemporary take on modern European cuisine, in the open-air, come summer, and candle-lit oasis in the winter.

On the menu, expect to find dishes like Orkney Scallop with XO Sauce, English Peas and Almonds; Native Breed Bavette Steak in Café de Paris Butter; Chili & Orange Tenderstem Broccoli and a Savarin of Exotic fruit soaked in Venezuelan aged Rum.

Pre Theatre: Monday – Sunday, 5pm to 6pm / Post Theatre: 9pm to 10:30pm

£32.50 for two courses, £39.50 for three courses; including a glass of bubbles

33 King Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8JD

www.closmaggiore.com

A dramatic dining experience that is just as stylish as the menu is satisfying, theatre goers will enter this popular seafood spot with a WOW. Channelling the spirit and glamour of fashionable Soho, Manzi’s is a lively, informal restaurant that pays homage to acclaimed fish classics and retro favourites, while giving them a spirited twist.

Their 'Soho Set' menu is incredibly good value for those looking to dine before taking their seats. Expect dishes like Taramasalata with Sourdough Croutons; Levantine Spiced Aubergine with Char-grilled Broccoli, Almonds and Labneh; Moules Marinières and Negroni Granita with Candied Orange Tuile.

Pre Theatre: Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm to 6:30pm

£19.50 for two courses, £24.50 for three courses

1-8 Bateman’s Buildings, Soho, W1D 3EN

www.manzis.co.uk

The world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant has opened in the heart of London’s West End, making it perfect strolling distance to many of the capital’s best theatres. Ideal for diners who fancy a lighter bite before their show, their ‘on the belt’ menu allowing individuals to select how many plates they fancy. For those looking for something a little more substantial, their ‘off-belt’ menus offer larger dishes and sharing platters.

With everything sourced from around the UK and made fresh, in-house, their regularly changing list of cheeses are all paired with individual condiments & small producer wines. Examples include Cornish Gouda paired with Clotted Cream Fudge; Achari Spiced Salami, Black Truffled Baron Bigod and Whipped Rosary Goats' Cheese paired with Apricot & Vanilla Jam.

Pre Theatre: Monday – Friday, 12am to 9:30pm, Saturday, 11am to 9:30pm, Sunday, 11am to 7:30pm

Plates cost between £3.95 - £6.25

Short’s Gardens, London, WC2H 9AT

www.thecheesebar.com

Pre-theatre dining at Scully St James will guarantee you a culinary explosion of flavours. Using sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, served in an informal yet refined setting, the menu is heavily influenced by his diverse cultural upbringing and vast experiences from traveling the world. Having amassed an exciting range of ingredients from homemade spices, pickles and preserves, head chef, Ramael Scully has an insatiable appetite for bold and vibrant colours and irreverent blends that take guests on a culinary journey of tradition, family and heritage.

Dishes you can expect include Twice-Cooked Pork Belly glazed with a Rhubarb Spiced Fish Caramel Sauce; Forbidden Black Rice with Green Mole, Smoked Tofu and Zucchini, and Dairy Free Chocolate Sorbet, Merlot Vinegar with Stem Ginger and Coco Nibs.

Pre Theatre: Tuesday - Saturday, 5pm to 11pm

£60 for two courses, £70 for three courses

4 St James’s Market, St James’s, SW1Y 4AH

www.scullyrestaurant.com

Nestled in an extension of the historic Royal Opera House, in the heart of Covent Garden, Gaucho is a vibrant addition to one of London’s most culturally significant areas. Offering carbon-neutral Argentinian steaks, fine wines and signature Gaucho cocktails, alongside an array of delicious vegetarian options, all served with true Latin American flair, the lively atmosphere will offer diners the perfect complement to a pre or post theatre experience.

The pre and post theatre menu offers dishes like Prawn Aguachile served with Avocado, Grilled Corn, Aji Amarillo and Ponzu Dressing; Beef Carpaccio served with Confit Cherry Tomatoes, Aji Amarillo, Tajin Lime and Chili; Roasted Pineapple with Light Caramel Sauce and Coconut Sorbet.

Pre Theatre: Monday – Friday, 5pm to 6:30pm / Post Theatre: 9:30pm to 10:30pm.

£27 for two courses, £30 for three courses

8-9 James Street, London, WC2E 8BT

www.gauchorestaurants.com

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