Leeds offers a variety of pre-theatre dining options for every taste, from traditional British pub fare at Whitelock’s to interactive Japanese cuisine at Teppanyaki, all at affordable prices. Whether you prefer French bistro ambiance at Kendells Bistro or an elegant dining experience at Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Brasserie, Leeds’ culinary scene promises to elevate your theatre night with delicious flavors and delightful deals.
Where Can You Get a Lovely Pre-Theatre Dinner in Leeds?
Leeds offers a diverse pre-theatre dining scene with options for every taste:
– Whitelock’s: Traditional British pub with a two-course meal at £18.50.
– Kendells Bistro: French bistro ambiance with a tea-time set menu.
– Teppanyaki: Interactive Japanese cuisine starting at £35.95 per person.
– Trinity Leeds: Variety of eateries with theatre-goer discounts.
– Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Brasserie: Elegant dining with a £30 prix fixe menu.
– Thai Edge: Early bird Thai specials for £18.95.
– Viva Italian: Cozy Italian with a three-course set menu at £21.95.
– Kino: Fine dining with a prix fixe menu crafted by an ex Masterchef contestant.
– Sarto: Italian pasta prix fixe menu for £16.50 per person.
A Taste of the Stage: Leeds’ Pre-Theatre Dining Scene
The vibrant city of Leeds is not just a haven for theatre enthusiasts but also a gastronomic playground for foodies. Before heading to a night of drama, comedy, or musical performance, why not indulge in a delectable pre-theatre dinner? A concept that combines the pleasure of fine dining with the excitement of live entertainment. Leeds has a variety of restaurants that cater to this very experience, offering specially curated menus that promise to start your evening on a high note.
One such gem is Whitelock’s, a historic pub that has stood the test of time since its establishment in 1715. It has become synonymous with tradition and quality. Located in the heart of Leeds, this pub offers an exclusive pre-theatre dinner to Leeds Grand Theatre ticket holders. Patrons are invited to dine on a two-course meal for £18.50 or opt for a three-course feast at £23. The menu features British classics, such as beer-battered fish and chips, and local delicacies like Yorkshire parkin, ensuring a hearty meal that reflects the culinary heritage of the region.
In contrast to the British pub experience, Kendells Bistro transports diners to the romantic streets of Paris with its French bistro-style setting. The ambiance is intimate, the décor authentically Gallic, and the tea-time set menu a testament to France’s celebrated culinary prowess. Patrons can indulge in the rich flavors of French onion soup, followed by a selection of mains including roast chicken breast with a medley of vegetables or a succulent roast rump of beef. The creme brûlée is a must-try, providing a sweet note to end the meal before the theatre’s curtain call.
Culinary Performances: Experiencing the Flavors of the World
As Leeds’ culinary scene continues to thrive, diners seeking an element of drama to pair with their pre-show excitement can find it at Teppanyaki. The restaurant offers an interactive dining experience where chefs showcase their skills on a hot plate, providing entertainment alongside mouth-watering Japanese cuisine. The set menus, starting at £35.95 per person, include appetizing options like miso soup, king prawns, scallops, and a refreshing melon dessert, ensuring a balance of savory and sweet that’s perfect before any performance.
For those who prefer a more expansive selection, Trinity Leeds is the ideal destination. This shopping and leisure hub boasts an array of eateries providing discounts for theatre-goers. At Rola Wala, vibrant Indian naan rolls filled with an assortment of flavors await, while MEATliquor serves up classic American-inspired dishes. The Alchemist, known for its innovative mixology, pairs creative cocktails with dishes like katsu curry and rib-eye steak, offering a 20% discount on food bills for those attending the theatre, Sunday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm.
Perched above the bustling streets, Harvey Nichols Fourth Floor Brasserie offers an elegant dining experience with panoramic views of the city. Their prix fixe menu, priced at £30 for three courses, showcases the best of Yorkshire’s seasonal produce. Diners can savor a ham hock and parsley fritter, move on to a main course of braised lamb shoulder or pan-fried sea bream, and complete the meal with a decadent dessert. This venue becomes even more enticing for Opera North ticket holders, who are treated to a complimentary glass of Prosecco with their meal.
Delicious Deals and Authentic Flavours: More Pre-Theatre Options
For an early bird special that brings the flavors of Thailand to Leeds, Thai Edge offers a starter and main for just £18.95 when dining before 6:30pm. With a menu that includes crispy duck pancakes, aromatic beef massaman curry, and chicken in a creamy cashew nut sauce, guests can embark on a culinary journey that complements the artistry of theatre. Located a stone’s throw away from Carriageworks Theatre, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal.
Adding an Italian twist to the pre-theatre dining scene, Viva Italian presents a traditional menu within a cozy and intimate environment. A three-course set menu for £21.95 allows diners to choose from a variety of classic Italian dishes. Start with a fresh caprese salad or a garlic bread appetizer, followed by a main such as breadcrumbed chicken breast or a comforting pizza. The homemade soup and prawn cocktail are popular choices to begin the feast, while the tiramisu offers a delightful conclusion to the pre-show ritual.
Kino, nestled within the Howard Assembly Room, stands out for its combination of fine dining and proximity to the performing arts. Under the guidance of ex Masterchef: The Professionals contestant Josh Whitehead, the restaurant has crafted a prix fixe menu that merges creativity with flavor. Options such as coronation chicken terrine or celeriac veloute for starters, and a main course of Yorkshire lamb or roasted pumpkin and buckwheat risotto, provide a sophisticated prelude to an evening of theatre. Dessert lovers are encouraged to try the chocolate tart, a fitting end to a memorable meal.
Sarto, just a short walk from Leeds Playhouse, is the go-to for pasta aficionados. Their prix fixe menu offers a snack and pasta dish for £16.50 per person. The selection ranges from focaccia & marinated mixed olives to lamb shoulder ragu tagliatelle, each dish crafted to deliver the comforting warmth of Italian cuisine. Available early in the evening, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely meal before catching a play or musical.
Leeds’ pre-theatre dining scene is a mosaic of cuisines, offering something for every palate and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional British pub experience, a French bistro affair, a Japanese culinary show, or something altogether different, the city’s eateries provide the perfect opening act to a night at the theatre. With thoughtful menus, charming ambiances, and wallet-friendly prices, these restaurants ensure that your evening starts with a taste of something extraordinary.
- Leeds offers a diverse pre-theatre dining scene with options for every taste.
- Whitelock’s offers a two-course meal for £18.50 in a traditional British pub setting.
- Kendells Bistro provides a French bistro ambiance with a tea-time set menu.
- Teppanyaki offers interactive Japanese cuisine starting at £35.95 per person.
- Trinity Leeds has a variety of eateries with discounts for theatre-goers.