The best pre-theatre menus in Manchester

The Refuge near the Palace Theatre is renowned for its elegant and modern vibe, offering eclectic dishes in a glamorous setting with Art Deco influences. It features several distinct spaces, including a main dining room with global culinary influences, and serves both a pre-theatre lunch and a pre-theatre dinner. The Refuge's show menu is available for a minimum of two people and includes a glass of fizz each. A vegan show menu is also available.

Zouk Tea Bar & Grill is renowned as one of Manchester's top spots for a nice curry and other vibrant delights from the Indian subcontinent. The bright, bustling restaurant with a sleek contemporary feel offers a two—or three-course pre-theatre dinner served daily. Zouk is located next to The Dancehouse and within walking distance of Palace Theatre, Home Theatre, Grosvenor East Theatre, and others.

Giovanni's is a mainstay of pre-theatre dining in Manchester, its proximity to some of the city's most popular theatres complemented by a sophisticated atmosphere, genuine Italian cuisine, and a commitment to have you full and in your seat by showtime. Their pre-theatre dining experience is available for both lunch and dinner and includes two or three courses of authentic Italian pasta, meat, and seafood favourites.

Presenting your show ticket at Menagerie entitles you to take advantage of their cheap pre-theatre offer, with your choice of one or two courses, including brunch plates. The fun, glitzy venue is situated next to Salford Central Station, meaning some of the best theatres in Manchester are just a short walk away. Expect to find a range of international favourites on the menu.

While not a pre-theatre menu per se, Kala's Bistro Menu fits into the pre-show lunch and dinner slots and is good value for money, so we'd be amiss not to mention it here. You can choose between two or three courses of confidently executed European fare such as coq au vin or crème brulée. Kala's Bistro is stylish and welcoming, with a convenient central location, and the menus change with the seasons.

Pier Eight, located within The Lowry, a contemporary arts centre in Salford Quays, serves as a fashionable dining spot, perfect for a meal before a show. Offering modern British dishes, the restaurant provides two or three-course pre-matinee and pre-theatre menus while also welcoming those who simply wish for a casual lunch or drinks at the bar. Guests can enjoy relaxing waterside views while dining.

Located in Deansgate, Hawksmoor offers easy access to many of Manchester's theatres, particularly the Manchester Opera House. Considered one of the finest steakhouse groups in the world, the meat-centric restaurant offers an express pre-theatre menu with your choice of two or three courses. Alternatively, if you're feeling peckish after the show, you can refuel with Hawksmoor's post-theatre menu.

Elegant Argentinian steakhouse Gaucho occupies a converted church and is distinguished by a stylish, dramatic interior. Premium cuts of South American meat are a highlight here and are heavily featured on the pre-theatre menu as well. Available for pre-theatre lunch and pre-theatre dinner alike, the two or three-course menu includes steaks served with chips, seasonal salad, and your choice of sauce, among other delicacies. The restaurant's central location ensures easy access to Manchester's top theatres.

Considered one of the best Spanish restaurants in the UK, La Bandera has been around for over a decade, welcoming diners with its plush, bright setting. Pre-show diners at this conveniently located restaurant just off of Deansgate can choose between paella or a choice of six tapas. House wine is also included in La Bandera's pre-theatre menu.

Owned by Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine and her husband, Annies is a charming old-world diner within walking distance of a number of the city's major theatres. The cosy spot sticks to serving classic comfort fare such as fish and chips, pies, and burgers. Served on weekdays only, their pre-theatre dinner menu includes two courses at a budget-friendly price.

Voted the best restaurant in Manchester in 2023, 20 Stories is a stylish dining destination perched high above Spinningfields. The kitchen focuses on British cuisine with international inspiration. There's a variety of menus to choose from, including a pre-theatre dinner spanning three courses of skilfully prepared dishes such as ham hock & partridge terrine, pan-roasted chicken, and apple meringue tart.

Bollywood star Asha Bhosle undoubtedly knows the importance of a proper pre-show meal, so it comes as no surprise her city centre restaurant features a pre-theatre dinner offer. The lavish Indian restaurant, housed in a Grade II-listed warehouse, serves a three-course pre-show meal starting with a platter of snacks, continuing with mains like rogan josh or butter chicken, and wrapping things up with dessert.

Honey Restaurant at Hotel Gotham in Manchester, holder of two AA Rosette Awards, is renowned for its diverse dining options, including a tasting menu and a pre-theatre dinner. With its comfortable and unassuming decor, this all-day eatery presents a range of globally inspired dishes and premium steaks, all crafted from locally sourced ingredients. A grand piano further enhances Honey's elegant atmosphere.