London’s best pre-show menus

If you’re watching a production at The Coronet Theatre, make your way to The Henderson Bar & Kitchen first for a scrumptious supper menu, with food served from 5pm-10pm. Located within The Laslett Hotel, this stylish neighbourhood hangout was named after Russ Henderson – one of the founding fathers of Notting Hill Carnival – and offers a rather fun and fanciful menu as well as a cosy heated terrace for some pre-theatre tipples. Snack on truffle hummus before diving into smoked salmon carpaccio with horseradish cream and beetroot, or a slow cooked brisket brioche bun served with spicy slaw, rocket and onion rings. And if you’ve still got room for dessert, the East to West Sundae combines Hackney Gelato chocolate hazelnut and salted caramel ice cream, and is topped with chocolate crumb, strawberries and coulis – a naughty, decadent delight!

The Cut is one of London’s most popular theatre bars and restaurants – and with good reason! Situated within The Young Vic, this buzzing spot is situated over two floors and boasts a sociable bar area full of theatre-goers and artists as well as an outdoor terrace, which is perfect for a spot of al fresco dining. The Cut serves a delectable pre-theatre supper, with modern dishes made from organic, free range ingredients. You’ll have the choice of sharing boards, small plates and flavoursome mains such as chicken Milanese, prawn linguine and spiced roast aubergine with salsa verde, roasted chickpeas and courgette salad. And if you fancy a pre-show tipple, there’s plenty of craft beers, cocktails and fantastic wines on the drink menu. 

El Pastor is one of the gems of Brewer Street – and is perfect for some casual, yet incredibly cool, pre-theatre dining. This vibrant Mexican taqueria is inspired by the lively culinary scene and nightlife of Mexico City, bringing Mexican heritage cuisine and fiesta vibes to London’s West End. Tuck into tacos, tostadas and quesadillas in the restaurant before heading down to the Mezcaleria Colmillo basement bar for some silky and smooth mezcal served the Mexican way – with orange slices and worm salt! If mezcal isn’t your thing, there are also Mexican beers with spiced salt rims, margaritas galore as well as a Negroni El Pastor, which will knock your socks off.

Heading to the Apollo Theatre? Then Bocca di Lupo is an obvious choice due to its very close proximity to the stage door! This much-loved, traditional Soho Italian runs a pre-theatre menu until 6:30pm on weekdays for just £15, which is inclusive of a starter, main and salad. You can also add on a dessert and espresso for an additional £5, which we highly recommend if you’re after the Full Monty Italian dining experience! Bocca di Lupo is big on seasonality, with menus changing once, and sometimes even twice daily, to reflect the changes in the seasons. Expect to enjoy regional food that pays homage to the abundance of the Mediterranean, including a hearty Rigatoni with ricotta, basil, lemon and nutmeg, followed by poached peaches and a refreshing granita created from the poaching liquor. Simply divine.