Amy Moore tours the capital, which offers a generous selection of pre/post theatre menus and unique dining experiences for groups.

BRASSERIE ZEDEL

Brasserie Zedel was opened in May 16, 1915, as part of The Regent Palace Hotel. Brasserie Zedel boasts an authentic, beautifully designed art deco structure located in the heart of Piccadilly Circus. Situated on Sherwood Street, the venue has been described as ‘a more democratic version of the Ritz’ erected as a hotspot for those seeking an affordable luxury. Its stunning marble entrance and antique winter garden, decorated with palms and rattan chairs, has been neatly preserved since its construction in the 1930s, credited to Oliver Percy Bernard OBE. Theatre no doubt influenced most of Bernard’s designs, as his early career was spent as a theatre stage hand and scene painter – making Brasserie Zedel the ideal venue to visit before or after a show. For a true theatre dining experience, there is live music hosted six nights a week from 2230hrs with no entrance fee required. Brasserie Zedel is open Monday to Saturday between 1130hrs and 2400hrs, with additional flexibility to book. Parties of 10 or more can book online, with larger groups of up to 20 people advised to email in advance.

THEATRES NEARBY: Garrick Theatre, Harold Pinter Theatre, Prince of Wales Theatre

T: 020 7734 4888

E: reservations@brasseriezedel.com or info@brasseriezedel.com

W: www.brasseriezedel.com

PLANET HOLLYWOOD

Located on Haymarket, Planet Hollywood boasts the capacity to comfortably accommodate groups from 10 to 300 for breakfast, lunch, dinner or late night dining. Planet Hollywood is home to a wealth of authentic film memorabilia, offering the world’s only dining experience inspired by the glamour of Hollywood. The restaurant promises hassle free dining, with tables already prepared to seat groups at the pre-booked time of arrival. Catering to all tastes and budgets, there are many set menus available and just like the trailers, they set the scene for a total immersive movie experience. There are a number of screens dotted throughout the restaurant displaying trailers of shows, films and music videos, helping to keep the atmosphere fresh and interesting for restaurant guests. Those visiting towards the end of the year can expect spooky decorations on Halloween and festive fare at Christmas. Planet Hollywood’s dedicated sales team is able to provide further information regarding group enquiries and can help to arrange a group dining experience if required.

THEATRES NEARBY: Garrick Theatre, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Noel Coward Theatre, Prince of Wales Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket

T: 020 7024 8455

E: salesuk@planethollywoodintl.com

W: www.planethollywoodlondon.com

MINT LEAF RESTAURANT

Conveniently located in the heart of the West End, Mint Leaf Restaurant offers contemporary cuisine served within sumptuous surroundings. Guests can soak in the restaurants stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, whilst enjoying a mouth-watering selection of innovative Indian dishes – blending both delicate flavours and light textures using the finest ingredients – such as Halal meats. Mint Leaf Restaurant can comfortably cater for parties of up to 220 people if required, with two course menus starting from as little as £13.95 per person for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is ideally located for pre/post theatre dining with adequate coach parking and drop off points located nearby. Large parties can be catered for semi-privately within the main restaurant area or within the private Jaipur Room, with bespoke menu packages and cocktail master classes available to book.

THEATRES NEARBY: Garrick Theatre, London Coliseum, Prince of Wales Theatre

T: 020 7930 9020

E: reservations@mintleafrestaurant. com

W: www.mintleafrestaurant.com

INTERACTIVE THEATRE

Interactive Theatre is a creative concept, which removes obstacles of the everyday theatrical production. Uniquely, performers are not confined to the stage and are instead allowed free roam of the floor. It is said that there is a great deal of improvisation involved, with actors often bouncing off ideas offered by audience members. The Faulty Towers Dining Experience proves an interesting alternative to the traditional ‘theatre and dine’ supplement, by requiring a fully functional restaurant or venue to complete each performance to standard. Therefore, spectators may become immersed in the experience as opposed to passively sitting and watching. The highly interactive production runs for approximately two hours and can often be performed as guests tuck into a deluxe three-course lunch or dinner. In this sense, The Faulty Towers Dining Experience falls under the ‘site specific’ category, suitable for both public performances and private showings. Alternatively, separate corporate sessions are also available to book for those looking to inject a little comedy into proceedings. The Faulty Towers Dining Experience was introduced in Australia in 1997 and has since grown on a more international scale, having first embarked on a worldwide tour in 2008. 2014 is the 17th anniversary of the show, which currently appears in over 20 countries on a regular basis. The Faulty Towers Dining Experience is currently booking until 2015.

JANUARY 2015

Floral Pavilion Theatre: January 21-25

Gulbenkian Canterbury: January 28

FEBRUARY 2015

Wales Millennium Centre: February 2-11

Gulbenkian Canterbury: February 15 & 25

The Dolphin Portsmouth: February 17-18

T: 0845 1544 145

E: info@faultytowers-uk.com

W: www.interactivetheatre.com.au