Going to an evening session of a West End musical always makes me hungry. With shows starting at 7.30pm I often miss dinner at my usual time and have to wait until 10pm to eat.
But a new bar and lounge inside The Hippodrome Casino, in Leicester Square, has solved that problem, especially for Magic Mike Live attendees. Here you can enjoy delicious snacks and exclusive cocktails before heading to your seat.
The lounge is a great escape from the winter chill, offering a warm and cozy place to relax before the show. You can enjoy food and drinks right up until showtime, and a member of staff will escort you directly to your seat, so you can skip the line and avoid last-minute stress.
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The lounge itself is beautiful, with soft blue lighting, soft seating and live jazz performances by a pianist and singer. A real fireplace adds to the ambiance, making it the perfect pre-show retreat during the Christmas season.
They have a wide range of specialty cocktails for £14.50, although more affordable options such as a £6.50 glass of wine are available. A great feature is their food and cocktail pairing suggestions, which help you find the perfect match if you’re set on a certain dish or drink.
I tried their twist on the passion fruit martini served in a tall glass, the Dancing Queen. This mix of vodka, pineapple, passion fruit, Aperol and lime was refreshing and delicious.
The food menu includes “light bites”, but I think they could easily pass as main courses. Prices start at £9.
My top choice was the baked brie cheese, served with tomato and plum chutney and focaccia – perfect comfort food for the Christmas season. The Octopus Tostadas were another highlight, a surprising and rare find in London.
If you want a heartier dish that will satisfy you before the show, without leaving you overly full, choose the yellowfin tuna tartare. It is served with flavors of pineapple, plantain, avocado and passion fruit.
Permission also offers a bottomless brunch menu, with main courses from £9, and 90 minutes of unlimited drinks from just £20. You can have prosecco, bellini, rose or white wine, so I thought this was a good offer for London.
Whether you’re a regular at West End musicals or just looking for a stylish place to eat and drink, this lounge is a must-try. With its cozy atmosphere and excellent location, it elevates the pre-theatre experience.
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