A night at Matthew Bourne's groundbreaking Swan Lake isn't just about watching dance – it's about crafting an unforgettable evening of artistic and culinary experiences. As dance enthusiasts flock to the Peacock Theatre for this revolutionary interpretation of Tchaikovsky's masterpiece, the question of where to enjoy a pre-theatre dinner becomes crucial to planning the perfect evening.
The Art of Pre-Theatre Dining Timing
Timing is everything when it comes to pre-theatre dining. With Swan Lake's evening performances, the golden rule is to allow yourself ample time to enjoy your meal without rushing. We recommend booking your table 1.5 to 2 hours before curtain time. This comfortable window allows you to:
Enjoy each course without watching the clock
Have time for a relaxed conversation about the upcoming performance
Take a gentle stroll to the theatre, letting your meal settle
Arrive at the theatre with time to collect tickets and find your seats
The Perfect Pre-Performance Menu
What you eat before a three-hour dance performance can significantly impact your enjoyment of the show. Modern Korean cuisine offers an ideal balance of flavors and portions that will keep you satisfied without feeling overly full.
Light and Vibrant Starters
Begin your culinary journey with dishes that awaken your palate:
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Four delicate pieces served with sweet chilli sauce, offering a light and crispy start
Bang Bang Cauliflower: Our signature dish featuring tempura cauliflower in a vegan gochujang "honey" garlic sauce
Vegetable or Shrimp Gyoza: Delicately steamed dumplings that pair perfectly with our chili soy sauce
Main Course Selections
Choose from our carefully curated selection of main dishes that provide sustained energy through the performance.
Performance-Perfect Rice Bowls: The cornerstone of Korean cuisine, our rice bowls offer the perfect balance of nutrients and energy for an evening at the theatre:
Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl: Scottish salmon grilled to perfection, served with teriyaki sauce and asian slaw
Dolsot Bibimbap: A beautiful array of vegetables, protein of your choice, and a fried egg served in a hot stone bowl with sesame gochujang sauce
Light Yet Satisfying Noodle Options: For those who prefer noodles, our selection offers both warm and cold options perfect for pre-theatre dining:
Bibim Guksu): Cold shirataki noodles with sesame dressing and kimchi – perfect for warm evenings
Gochujang Stir Fry Udon Noodles: Available with tofu or chicken, providing the ideal balance of carbohydrates and protein
Pre-Theatre Dining Packages
Make the most of your evening with our specially designed pre-theatre offers:
2-course meal for £16 (Monday-Friday, 5-9:30 PM)
3-course meal for £20
Optional wine pairing recommendations available
Special dietary requirements catered for (extensive vegan and gluten-free options)
Location and Convenience
Situated just minutes from the Peacock Theatre, our location offers the perfect starting point for your evening of culture. The well-lit, direct route between our restaurant and the theatre means you can enjoy a stress-free dining experience and a pleasant walk to the venue, arriving refreshed and ready to enjoy Swan Lake.
Creating Your Perfect Theatre Evening
The combination of innovative dance and modern Korean cuisine creates an unforgettable cultural experience. When planning your evening, consider these thoughtful touches that can enhance your experience:
Pre-Show Ambiance
Our carefully curated playlist and subtle lighting create the perfect atmosphere to build anticipation for the performance ahead. The contemporary Asian decor provides an elegant backdrop for your pre-theatre conversations and excitement.
Signature Drinks Selection
Begin your evening with our curated selection of drinks that complement your meal:
Pink Martini: A delicate blend of pink gin, plum soju, and cranberry juice
Gochugaru Margarita: Our unique twist on a classic
Korean Bramble: A sophisticated combination of soju and blackberry liquor
Small Plates to Share
Creating a social dining experience before the show adds another layer of enjoyment to your evening. Our small plates are perfect for sharing:
Vegetable Spring Rolls with sweet chilli sauce
Panko Shrimp with Gochujang Aioli
Bang Bang Cauliflower with our signature sauce
Special Seasonal Offerings
To complement Swan Lake's run at the Peacock Theatre, we've crafted special features that enhance your theatre experience:
Themed cocktails inspired by the production's most memorable moments
Pre-bookable interval drinks for a seamless evening
Group dining options for theatre parties and celebrations
Making Your Evening Seamless
Your pre-theatre dining should be as graceful as Swan Lake itself. We understand the importance of timing and atmosphere in creating the perfect prelude to an evening of world-class dance. By choosing our pre-theatre dining experience, you're ensuring every moment of your evening is carefully choreographed for maximum enjoyment.