20 Best Restaurants for a Pre-theatre Dinner in London

1. Louie

It’s no surprise that this stylish New Orleans-inspired restaurant made our most instagrammable restaurants in London list. Nestled in a historic 19th-century townhouse in Covent Garden with stunning interiors and a French-inspired menu, Louie offers elegance and fine flavours for a pre-theatre meal to remember. 

Known for its lively evenings, it’s also perfect for post-theatre dining, with the night continuing upstairs at the Alligator Bar, renowned for its live music and vibrant atmosphere.

Pre-theatre offer

Louie has a special set menu of two courses for £28 or three courses for £35. 

Start your meal with the sesame-seared tuna, or opt for the Louisiana-style Caesar salad—a satisfying vegetarian option. For the main course, choose between the Jazzy New Orleans chicken, a roasted chicken and spinach dish, or the summer vegetable risotto, a light and refreshing vegetarian choice. To conclude your meal on a sweet note, choose from the hazelnut profiteroles or the refreshing ice cream mix.

2. Chotto Matte Soho

Chotto Matte is a lively restaurant offering a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine (Nikkei), making it an exciting spot for a pre-theatre meal. Located in the heart of Soho, it’s just a short walk from major theatres like the London Palladium and Palace Theatre, making it a convenient choice for a meal before catching a show. The menu features fresh sushi, sashimi and bold Nikkei dishes like their signature black cod with miso. It's seriously delicious food!

Pre-theatre offer

Chotto Matte offers a fantastic pre-theatre menu, perfect for those looking to enjoy a unique meal before catching a show.

Available Monday to Friday from 17:00 to 18:30, the menu is served in a sharing style, meaning you can try a little bit of everything. Priced at £40 per person, it includes a variety of signature Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes, like Tiger Prawn Tempura and gluten-free Sea Bass Ceviche.

3. Hakkasan Hanway Place

Hakkasan Hanway Place offers a great pre-theatre experience, delivering Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine in a “Yum Cha” setting, where the chefs prepare dishes right in front of you. Situated a stone's throw away from London's Theatreland, it offers an elegant pre-show meal for time-conscious theatre-goers.

Pre-theatre offer

Hakkasan Hanway Place is celebrating the theatre debut of The Devil Wears Prada showing at London's Westend with an exclusive pre- and post-theatre, priced at £58 per person or enjoy their a la carte menu. This special menu offers a selection of small eats, mains and desserts, all paired with a hand-crafted cocktail. For an added touch of luxury, you can upgrade your meal with half a bottle of rock angel rosé for an additional £40.

4. Tapas Brindisa, Soho

Tapas Brindisa is one of our top Spanish spots and favourite Soho restaurants, offering classics—like jamón Ibérico, patatas bravas, and pan con tomate—as well as more adventurous options—like pulpo a la Gallega (octopus) and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). 

Located on Broadwick Street, Brindisa Tapas is just a short stroll away from Shakespeare’s Globe and many other iconic theatres in London. 

Pre-theatre offer

Tapas Brindisa offers a pre-theatre menu for just £25 per person, available Sunday to Wednesday from 16:00 to 17:30. The menu includes a choice of aperitivo, with options like Estrella Galicia on tap, house wine, cava or a soft drink to kick off your meal. You can then choose from a variety of Valencian-style rice dishes, including arroz de manitas de cerdo (rice with pig’s trotters), arroz de mariscos (seafood rice) or the arroz de verduras (vegetable rice). 

5. Burger and Lobster Leicester Square

Burger & Lobster is a simple yet indulgent spot, specialising in two main offerings (no prizes for guessing which two). 

Enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal just ten minutes by foot from Dominion Theatre. Whether you’re craving a juicy, perfectly cooked burger or the best from London's seafood restaurants, this restaurant delivers both with finesse.

Pre-theatre offer

Although there’s no set pre-theatre menu, Burger & Lobster has some great offers that are perfect for right before the show. Delicious delights include the lobster & prawn cocktail roll—a mouthwatering mix of fresh prawns and lobster, combined with cucumber, tarragon, avocado and iceberg lettuce, all tossed in a creamy Marie Rose sauce. 

Served in a toasted brioche roll and accompanied by crispy fries, it's the perfect quick yet satisfying meal before your main event. And only £18.50—winner winner lobster dinner.

6. Casa do Frango

Casa do Frango is a vibrant Portuguese franchise in London, known for its mouthwatering piri-piri chicken and rustic vibe. Casa do Frango's Piccadilly and Victoria locations are ideal for pre-theatre dining, right in the heart of London’s theatre districts.

The Piccadilly location is near London’s West End, with theatres like the Criterion, Prince of Wales and Lyric Theatre all within walking distance. The Victoria location is close to the Victoria Palace Theatre and Apollo Theatre. Come for convenient pre-show dining with a Portuguese twist.

Pre-theatre offer

Casa do Frango offers two or three courses for pre-theatre dining. You can try two courses for £24, or three courses for £27—with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. The menu highlights the signature piri-piri chicken alongside traditional sides like batatas fritas, rice and charred vegetables.

7. Hawksmoor Air Street

Hawksmoor Air Street’s beautiful Art Deco dining room is the perfect setting for a pre-theatre feast. The à la carte menu features oysters, steaks and seafood, with the theatre express menu offering up some fan favourites.

Located near St James's and offering a high-quality dining experience with classic British fare, Hawksmoor Air Street is ideal for a refined pre-theatre meal. 

Pre-theatre offer

Hawksmoor‘s pre-theatre menu is available from Monday to Saturday until 18:30, with two courses for £29 or three for £33. 

Choose from starters like potted beef & bacon with Yorkshire puddings or smoked mackerel salad, mains like rump steak & chips or spring vegetable salad, and puddings like peanut butter shortbread or hot chocolate tart—all of which pair nicely with a tipple from their cocktail bar.

8. Joe Allen Restaurant and Bar

Located in Covent Garden, Joe Allen is perfectly positioned within a 5-10 minute walk of some of the best West End theatres, including the Adelphi Theatre, Cambridge Theatre, Savoy Theatre, and many more! Whether you’re catching The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre on a family theatre trip or an evening performance at the Royal Opera House, it is the ideal spot to enjoy lunch, brunch, pre-theatre or post-theatre dinner.

Pre-theatre offer

There’s no set pre-theatre menu at Joe Allen’s. But, Joe’s Charcuterie Board to share, Joe’s giant hotdog with homemade kimchi and fries, and a few other winners off of the not-so-secret menu are available both before and after the show, thanks to their delicious main and late bird menus. 

Our rec? Try the famous off the menu burger!

9. Gilgamesh

Enjoy a blend of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian flavours over three floors of Babylonian decor. With reservations of up to nine people available, options for multiple dietary preferences and an affordable prix fixe menu, Gilgamesh is one of the best pre-theatre options in Covent Garden. 

Pre-theatre offer

Set the mood for pre-theatre elegance with this immersive dining experience. The pre-theatre menu includes two courses for £25 or three courses for £30, available daily from 17:00 to 19:00. 

You’ll get two starters, a main, and a dessert, from spring rolls and dumplings to curries and mango sorbet. Or, come post-theatre for a signature cocktail at the bar and a taste of Babylon nights.

10. Lavo

Lively and sophisticated, Lavo offers an authentic Italian dining experience that you can’t get elsewhere. Their focus is on fresh, seasonal produce for the classics, meaning you can’t go wrong no matter what you order.

Lavo’s drinks are just as good as the food. They offer an assortment of Italian-inspired cocktails and an extensive wine list for the perfect pre-theatre pairing. 

Pre-theatre offer

While Lavo doesn’t offer a specific pre-theatre offer, guests can enjoy their set menu for £29, including dishes like handmade burrata, spaghetti, and create your own cannoli dessert option.

11. Olea Social

Three words that describe Olea Social? Modern, relaxed, and fresh. Enjoy contemporary twists on Mediterranean classics—like lamb kofta skewers akin to those you’d find in Athens and pasta pappardelle drenched in authentic Italian flavours. 

As the name suggests, Olea is all about the Social; ideal for the whole gang before a show at the Royal Opera House nearby. If your group is passionate about good food, cosy atmospheres and refreshing drinks, then don’t miss out on this Mediterranean hideaway. 

Pre-theatre offer

Olea Social offers pre-show dining at £26.50 per guest, including starters and an entrée. Choose from favoured starters like smoked salmon, pickled cucumber and falafel, and tasty entrées like chargrilled cauliflower and seabream fillet. 

12. Aqua Nueva

Located near Oxford Circus, Aqua Nueva is just a short tube ride from Wyndham’s Theatre, a 15-20 minute walk from the Royal Opera House and just across the street from the London Palladium. 

One of our favourite Spanish restaurants in London, Aqua Nueva offers a sophisticated Spanish tapas menu for a more upscale pre-theatre dining experience. Soak in iconic views from the rooftop terrace, taste small plates and signature dishes and drink from their Spanish wine list.

Pre-theatre offer

Enjoy the flavours that define Spain anytime between 17:00 and 18:00 from Monday to Saturday. With four savoury dishes and one dessert at £32 per person, it’s a great place for either a matinee or evening performance, as you can make it a meal both after and before the show. Keep in mind that pre-theatre menus are available for a maximum of six dining guests per party.

13. Penelope's

This trendy and fancy restaurant in London boasts a chic, modern interior filled with flowers and mirrored ceilings. Indulge in a culinary adventure featuring an innovative Israeli twist on classic Spanish tapas. Find Penelope’s near Leicester Square, just a 10-minute walk from His Majesty’s Theatre.  

Pre-theatre offer

From shawarma and paella to crema catalana and cheesecake baklava, Penelople’s delivers one of the best pre-theatre menus in town at £25 for two courses and £28 for three courses per person. This tasty place caters to vegans, vegetarians and carnivores seeking fresh, healthy food in a spacious and stylish place before or after the theatre.

14. Pivot Bar & Grill

Spanning across two floors and overlooking Covent Garden, Pivot Bar & Grill’s long booth seating and all-day-eating options make it the ideal spot to enjoy a classy meal and delicious drink on a theatre day. 

Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing glass of wine, a perfectly poured pint, or a dish that champions the best of British culinary excellence, Pivot has something to satisfy every taste. 

Pre-theatre offer

Pivot offers a theatre menu with two courses for £26.75 and three courses for £30.75. Start with classics like chicken Caesar salad or smoked salmon, and move on to mains like English chicken or fish and chips. For even more English classics, go for the Sunday roast and matinee show combo, starting at £29 for one course.

15. Hovarda Soho

Hovarda is a trendy Mediterranean gem celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and Aegean-inspired seafood dishes. Fan favourites like grilled octopus and lamb chops share the menu with vegetarian delights such as roasted vegetables and homemade dips, ensuring something for everyone.

With stunning interiors by award-winning designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, Hovarda boasts a luxe first-floor cocktail bar and an elegant ground-floor restaurant. Located in the heart of Soho’s theatre district, it’s perfect for a post-theatre too, complete with live music to keep the night alive in style.

Pre-theatre offer

Whilst Hovarda don't have a theatre menu, they offer a set menu - 9 courses starting at £45 per person. Enjoy a healthy emphasis on seafood, Mediterranean classics and a hit wine list—with notable options including aromatic Greek whites, like assyrtiko, and fruity Turkish reds, like kalecik karası.

16. Manzi's

Manzi's is a lively date night restaurant in Soho that beautifully blends seaside charm with a modern twist, making it a great choice for an out-of-the-ordinary theatre date. It’s only a short distance from Lancaster Place, Leicester Square and other highlights from London’s West End.

Pre-theatre offer

While Manzi’s does not have a set pre-theatre menu, this seafood restaurant caters to theatre-goers regularly with the famous Manzi’s fish pie, lobster and shrimp burgers right off of the aptly named “Main act” section in the menu. Manzi’s is a great choice if you’re looking for fresh, quality seafood with a classic feel.

17. LUCi

Step into the grand cafes of Milan – in London. Just a 15-20 minute walk or short bus ride from The National Theatre, LUCi offers the best of Italy before the theatre. It’s a refreshing choice for a matinee as it hosts a breakfast menu full of tasty Italian pastries and creamy coffee. Or, later on, go for some of their signature house cocktails, pasta and main courses for a pre-theatre delight.

Pre-theatre offer

LUCi offers fine Italian food all day al a carte menu at a convenient location to nearby theatres. There’s no set pre-th, but they’re quick to serve wood-fired pizza by the slice, authentic Italian pastas and traditional desserts—like their Tiramisu. It’s a journey through Italian classics.

18. Bar Jackie

Bar Jackie is a street level cafe famous for serving up classic Italian cuisine, bold cocktails and the best wines in London. Small, cosy and inviting, it’s the perfect go-to for anyone who loves pizza, pasta and a good drink to pair.

Besides being a place that specialises in authentic and vibrant flavours, Bar Jackie is also a great choice for a pre-theatre meal, taking you on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean coastline. With their set menu, you’ll leave the place happy, and full while looking forward to your show.

Pre-theatre offer

While Bar Jackie doesn’t offer a specific pre-theatre menu, they have a set menu with rocket and parmesan salad, and a choice of spaghetti puttanesca, casarecce amatriciana or pinsa romana. With a soft drink the menu costs £19, while a glass of wine bumps it up to £24.

19. KoD Soho

KÖD prides itself on quality, taste and atmosphere. Here you’ll find fine steaks with delicious side orders and a high-quality wine list in a warm, modern setting. It’s a top pre-theatre dinner location in London for upscale European dining. 

Conveniently located just walking distance from Great Marlborough Street in the heart of Soho, KÖD serves up exceptionality in a timely manner for fine dining before theatre-going. 

Pre-theatre offer

Pamper yourself with their pre-theatre menu and a taste of the KöD atmosphere with two courses for £39 per person. Find quality, contemporary European dining in a variety of dishes perfect for a quick but satisfying meal before a show.

20. Farzi London

Farzi London is located in Haymarket, a brief walk from Piccadilly Circus. This West End location is easily accessible from the South Bank, making it a prime location for a pre-theatre bite to eat before heading to the National Theatre, Lyttelton Theatre or The Dorfman. 

This culinary treasure brings India's top restaurant concepts to life, blending traditional flavours with a contemporary twist—so that you can enjoy the warmth of Farzi before the curtains go up. 

Pre-theatre offer

You can enjoy Farzi’s theatre menu from 12:00 to 18:30 and after 21:30 at £25.95 per person. Choose from creative starters like the chicken lollipop or vegetarian dumplings, various mains that all come with dal makhani, butter naan and steamed rice, and add a dessert for £5.95. Vegan options are also available on the pre-theatre offering, simply ask your server.