Johnstons Brasserie pre theatre menu

Originally uploaded by Andyrob

12:00 – 3.00pm Chef’s lunch special: Two courses £7.50

12:00 – 7:00pm Pre-theatre menu: Two courses £12.50 Three courses £14.50

I’ve asked for some opinions as to the best restaurants for booking pre theatre meals as part of a theatre breaks in London. Here are some responses:

In my very humble opinion, Chez Gerard and the Criterion have had their day.

Chez Gerard is just a well-worn chain these days, with little care for standards. Every time I’ve been in recent years, I’ve come out disappointed.

The Criterion used to be fabulous, and offered a great bargain on set and pre-theatre food – until Marco Pierre White and Frankie Dettori took it over. Now it’s very ordinary, and not much to write home about. Still, the food is reasonably OK (but no frills), and the Criterion is of course very well placed for shows. It’s also absolutely beautiful inside, so if you have friends/others who like architecture and interiors, it’s a good bet.

Bertorelli’s I’ve never been to, but friends who have been seem either to love it or hate it. To me, that smacks of inconsistent standards – so you just have to take pot luck and hope you’re there when they’re on form!

The Creation Restaurant I can’t help you with, I’m afraid. I’ve never heard of it, let alone been there!

What are your best tips for pre-theatre meals? Worth booking as part of theatre breaks in London or better to take a chance that you can find a spare table on the night?