Theatre dining: Joe Allen

Our series of reviews detailing the best of London’s theatre dining scene

Since its launch in 1977, Joe Allen has been a Theatreland icon, proving as enduring as The Mousetrap and as popular with the stars of stage as with the audiences that flock to see them.

When it was announced last year that the restaurant had to close due to essential building works, there was luvvie uproar. Thankfully, the owners found a site just 40ft from the original and set about recreating it ‘brick-by-brick’ ensuring that the doyenne of theatre dining lives on.

The deal

The whole menu might as well be considered a theatre menu here, but in addition to a la carte there is a specially-priced set theatre menu which runs from midday through to 7pm, ideal for dining around a matinee or before an evening performance. The set menu offers two courses for £15.95 or three for £18.95.

What’s on the menu?

Part of the Joe Allen’s charm is its versatility, so the menu covers lots of ground but diner-style dishes reign supreme. Starters span a rich lobster bisque with garlic croutons, beetroot carpaccio and steak tartare, while mains include the Joe Allen hot dog, oak-smoked baby back ribs, chicken parmigiana and a range of steaks.

What isn’t on the menu is a burger. But that’s because it’s a secret. Fat patties and lashings of melted cheese await those in the know who ask for the discrete item, which has been available but off the menu since the restaurant launched.

Drinks

Choice is also king, with a sturdy selection of wines complementing classic cocktails. Sours and Marys are a signature, with the option to choose any base spirit from a wide ranging list spirit.

Closest to: The Lion King at The Lyceum Theatre.