Promising sustenance, sensual lighting and something to talk about, it’s difficult to resist the retro temptation of dinner and a show.
Perhaps the most universally adored is Bistrotheque, where upstairs the delicious, quirky modern European menu (get the pie) is accompanied by live piano, and downstairs at The Cockatoo the same food is paired with outrageous performances by Jonny Woo and A Man To Pet.
Or look to the palatial 1930s French dining room of Brasserie Zédel, where every night music lovers can indulge in game terrine and choucroute to the tune of an exceptional, eclectic live band. And for a more intimate and less filling affair, dance across the hall to Crazy Coqs and enjoy a roster of larger-than-life acts alongside an array of well-honed cocktails and snacks.
Meanwhile, a few hundred metres away Bardo St James’s, oozing all the glamour of the Copacabana scene in Goodfellas, offers live jazz alongside a decadent Italian menu including a divine cacio e pepe ravioli. Likewise, on Thursdays and Fridays the charm of Dishoom Kensington’s hearty fare is topped up by house band The Marine Liners, while across town, cabaret venue The Parlour in The Ned is a brilliant place to delight in sublime seafood, including Gillardeau oysters and lobster thermidor.
If that all seems a dash too fancy, head to Syp for casual yet sophisticated pizza and jazz, or down to Voodoo Ray’s in Peckham for steaming slices alongside a variety of lively music acts.
Finally, for the utmost fun, watch out for Beth Brickenden and Vanity von Glow’s exceptionally fun Drag & Wine tasting events, always accompanied by brilliant bites.
