Covent Garden is one of London’s busiest theatre districts, making it one of the best areas for pre-theatre dining. Below are some fantastic restaurants within walking distance to most of the theatres in the West End. With offerings including speedy service, pre-fixe menus and convenient booking options.
Top Pre-Theatre Restaurants in Covent Garden
These restaurants are within easy walking distance of major Covent Garden theatres and are known for efficient service, pre-theatre menus, and good booking availability.
Dishoom Covent Garden – 12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, London WC2H 9FB
A brilliantly reliable pre-theatre choice with a menu built for sharing, quick pacing, and big flavour. The atmosphere is lively and immersive, and the service is slick enough to get you in and out comfortably before curtain up — without it feeling like a rushed meal.
Recommendation: Chicken ruby – A rich, creamy, and consistently one of the best “order-without-thinking” choices.
- Distance: 5 Minute walk to most major theatres
- Cuisine: Bombay Inspired
- Price Range: ££
- Pre-theatre suitability: Good for 60-90 minute dining
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm (Can only be booked for groups of 4+ – Walk-in only for small parties)
The Original Ivy – 1-5 West St, London WC2H 9NQ
A true West End institution that suits theatre nights perfectly: polished service, a comfortable dining room, and a menu that pleases almost everyone. It’s ideal when you want something that feels “special occasion” but still works seamlessly with show timings.
Recommendation: Shepherd’s pie – A classic Ivy comfort food that arrives promptly and eats beautifully.
- Distance: 5 minute walk to most major Covent Garden theatres
- Cuisine: Modern British / European
- Price Range: ££
- Pre-theatre suitability: Good for 60-75 minute dining – Offers a set menu option
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm
Hawksmoor Seven Dials – 11 Langley St, London WC2H 9JG
A dependable option for those wanting something substantial before curtain call. The menu is structured and service moves efficiently, making it theatre-friendly despite its steakhouse focus.
Recommendation: The rump steak with beef-dripping chips — hearty and reliably excellent.
- Distance: 5 Minute walk to most major theatres
- Cuisine: British Steakhouse
- Price Range: £££
- Pre-theatre suitability: Good for 60-75 minute dining
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm
Clos Maggiore – 33 King St, London WC2E 8JD
Often regarded as one of London’s most romantic dining rooms, Clos Maggiore is ideal for a special theatre night. Despite its fine-dining reputation, service is polished and efficient enough for pre-show timing. This can be a tricky reservation so be sure to get in there early!
Recommendation: The roast duck with seasonal garnish — elegant, refined and beautifully plated.
- Distance: 5 Minute walk to most major theatres
- Cuisine: Modern French
- Price Range: ££££
- Pre-theatre suitability: We recommend 75-90 minutes for dining
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm
Balthazar London – 4-6 Russell St, London WC2B 5HZ
A buzzy, always-on brasserie that feels tailor-made for pre-theatre dining. Lively atmosphere, efficient pacing, and a menu of crowd-pleasing French classics. Great for dates, groups, or anyone wanting a glamorous start to the evening.
Recommendation: Steak frites — the definitive brasserie order and perfect for pre-show timing.
- Distance: 5 Minute walk to most major theatres
- Cuisine: French brasserie
- Price Range: £££
- Pre-theatre suitability: Good for 60-90 minute dining – Offers a pre-theatre menu
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm
Ave Mario – 15 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QG
A high-energy, feel-good Italian dining with a fun, theatrical atmosphere that fits the West End vibe. It’s a great pre-show option when you want something lively and sociable, with a menu designed for indulgent comfort and easy sharing.
Recommendation: The truffle pasta – A rich, crowd-pleasing, and ideal if you want one “wow” dish before the show.
- Distance: 5 Minute walk to most major theatres
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price Range: ££
- Pre-theatre suitability: Good for 60-75 minute dining
- Booking time: Recommended – 5:30pm
How to choose a Pre-Theatre Restaurant in Covent Garden
When booking a pre-theatre dinner in Covent Garden, we recommend aiming for a restaurant within a 5-10 minute walk of your theatre. Booking at 5:30pm for a 7:30pm curtain will allow you comfortable dining time. Always mention to your maître’d or server upon arrival if your short for time! The staff at these locations are pros and will always do their utmost to accommodate you in a timely fashion!
Looking for other theatre districts? Explore our full London Pre-theatre dining guide.